Tag Archives: featured

History

The week before Christmas notable historical events

 

Pre-20th Century Events

  • December 16, 1773: Boston Tea Party
    American colonists protested British taxation by dumping tea into Boston Harbor, an event that escalated tensions leading to the American Revolution.
  • December 17, 1903: First Flight by the Wright Brothers
    Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered, heavier-than-air aircraft at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
  • December 18, 1865: Thirteenth Amendment Ratified
    The U.S. officially abolished slavery when the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution was declared ratified.
  • December 24, 1814: Treaty of Ghent Signed
    This treaty ended the War of 1812 between the United States and Britain.

20th Century Events

  • December 20, 1957: Elvis Presley Drafted into the U.S. Army
    The “King of Rock and Roll” received his draft notice, marking a turning point in his career.
  • December 21, 1988: Lockerbie Bombing
    Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland, due to a terrorist bombing, killing 270 people.
  • December 24, 1968: Apollo 8 orbits the Moon
    NASA’s Apollo 8 crew became the first humans to orbit the Moon, giving a Christmas Eve broadcast that included the famous reading from the Book of Genesis.

Cultural Events

  • December 19, 1843: Publication of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens
    This beloved Christmas story was first published in London, shaping modern holiday traditions.
  • December 22, 1942: Release of “White Christmas”
    Bing Crosby’s iconic song was first performed in the film Holiday Inn. It became one of the best-selling singles of all time.

Recent Events

  • December 23, 2001: Invention of Wikipedia Announced
    Larry Sanger and Jimmy Wales announced the creation of Wikipedia, which would revolutionize how information is shared.
  • December 19, 2011: Kim Jong-il’s Death
    The North Korean leader passed away, leading to the rise of his son, Kim Jong-un.

These events highlight the diverse and impactful happenings that occurred during the days leading up to Christmas throughout history. Let me know if you’d like more details on any of these!

Weather

December weather quiz

Let’s test your knowledge of Saint John’s December weather with a few questions:

  1. Temperature Trends: In December, do average daily high temperatures in Saint John increase, decrease, or remain the same?
  2. Precipitation: Is December typically the wettest month in Saint John?
  3. Snowfall: Does the average snowfall in Saint John increase, decrease, or stay constant throughout December?
  4. Daylight Hours: How many hours of daylight does Saint John experience on the shortest day of December?
  5. Cloud Cover: What percentage of December days in Saint John are overcast or mostly cloudy?

Answers:

  1. Temperature Trends: Average daily high temperatures decrease during December. At Saint John Airport, they drop from 38°F (3°C) to 29°F (-2°C).
    WeatherSpark
  2. Precipitation: Yes, December is typically the wettest month in Saint John, with the highest average rainfall.
    Weather Atlas
  3. Snowfall: The average snowfall in Saint John increases throughout December. At Saint John Airport, it starts at 7.6 inches (19.3 cm) and rises to 14.6 inches (37.1 cm).
    WeatherSpark
  4. Daylight Hours: On the shortest day, December 21, Saint John experiences approximately 8 hours and 44 minutes of daylight.
    WeatherSpark
  5. Cloud Cover: December in Saint John is overcast or mostly cloudy about 57% of the time.
christmas, Your Garden

The Beauty of Christmas Plants

 The Symbolism and Beauty of Christmas Plants

When we think of Christmas, our minds are flooded with cozy imagery—twinkling lights, crackling fires, and the smell of freshly baked cookies. However, one of the most enduring and natural symbols of the season comes from plants. Christmas plants are more than just decoration; they carry rich traditions, cultural symbolism, and natural beauty that elevate our festive celebrations.

Poinsettias: The Quintessential Christmas Flower


No Christmas plant list is complete without mentioning the poinsettia. With its striking red and green foliage, the poinsettia has become synonymous with holiday cheer. Originating in Mexico, it was brought to the U.S. in the 19th century by Joel Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico. In Mexican tradition, the plant is linked to the “Legend of the Poinsettia,” where a poor child’s humble gift of weeds turned into radiant red flowers at a church altar, symbolizing the true spirit of giving. Today, poinsettias are displayed in homes, churches, and offices, available in red, white, and pink varieties to match any festive theme.

Mistletoe: A Kiss Under Tradition


Mistletoe is steeped in myth and folklore. In ancient times, it was revered by Druids, believed to bring health, fertility, and protection. Fast forward to today, mistletoe is best known as the plant under which lovers exchange a kiss. This custom dates back to Victorian England, where standing beneath mistletoe granted a moment of romance. Beyond its playful tradition, mistletoe also symbolizes peace and goodwill—perfect themes for the season of love and togetherness.

Holly: A Symbol of Protection and Life


The glossy green leaves and bright red berries of holly make it a natural Christmas favorite. Holly holds deep religious and cultural symbolism. In Christian tradition, the sharp leaves are thought to represent the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, while the red berries symbolize His blood. Before its Christian associations, holly was celebrated by Celts and Romans as a plant of protection and eternal life. Hung in doorways and windows, holly is said to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Its hardy evergreen appearance also makes it a perfect plant to brighten winter’s stark landscape.

Christmas Trees: Evergreen Majesty


The centerpiece of Christmas decorations is, of course, the Christmas tree. The evergreen fir, spruce, or pine represents eternal life, as it remains lush and green even in the harshest winters. The modern tradition of decorating a Christmas tree originated in Germany in the 16th century before spreading across Europe and to America. Adorned with lights, ornaments, and garlands, the Christmas tree creates a symbol of joy, family, and togetherness that unites people around the world.

Amaryllis: The Elegant Winter Bloom


For a touch of sophistication, the amaryllis is a stunning addition to Christmas plant displays. Its tall, trumpet-shaped flowers bloom in vibrant reds, whites, and pinks during the winter months, adding a festive elegance to any room. Symbolizing strength, beauty, and determination, the amaryllis reminds us of the resilience and joy that the season brings.

Ivy and Beyond


Other winter plants, such as ivy and Christmas cactus, add to the natural beauty of the season. Ivy symbolizes fidelity and eternity, while the Christmas cactus delights with its cascading pink, red, or white flowers.

These plants not only fill our homes with beauty but also connect us to centuries of tradition, hope, and celebration. Whether it’s the poinsettia’s vibrant reds, mistletoe’s romantic tradition, or the majestic Christmas tree, Christmas plants remind us of nature’s enduring role in our lives—bringing comfort, symbolism, and cheer throughout the holidays. 🌿

christmas

Days Until

That’s right—just one week to go until Christmas Day! How are you feeling about it? Are you all set with your plans, shopping, or anything else? Or maybe just ready to soak up the holiday vibes?