Next Saturday is Valentine’s Day. I know some people consider it a ‘Hallmark’ holiday (one that the card companies make out on) but it has a long history. As usual, I poked about on the world wide web and found my information there…
Valentine’s day has roots in church history as a saint’s day, celebrating the lives of several martyred persons named Valentine. Romance entered when, in the middle ages - 1382, Chaucer wrote a poem about lovebirds in honor of the engagement of King Richard of England to Anne of Bohemia. They got married at the tender age of 15 so one might wonder what they knew of love.
Later, in the 18th century, the day evolved into a card and gift-giving occasion as lovers sent hand written cards (valentines), flowers and sweets to each other as an expression of their love. Eventually, hand written valentines were replaced with mass-produced cards. And now, one can send a valentine ‘e-card’ or electronic card. At the moment, there are no electronic flowers (which would be good for someone with allergies) nor electronic candies (which would be good for me as I could not eat them and gain weight).
Many people plan and have romantic dinners by candlelight (always snuff out the candles before leaving the room and make sure your fire extinguisher is handy). And a few, say ‘bah humbug’ and do nothing. Where do you fall in that mix? Feel free to let us know!
Whatever you do or do not do for Valentine’s Day – I hope it is safe and happy!
Valentine’s day has roots in church history as a saint’s day, celebrating the lives of several martyred persons named Valentine. Romance entered when, in the middle ages - 1382, Chaucer wrote a poem about lovebirds in honor of the engagement of King Richard of England to Anne of Bohemia. They got married at the tender age of 15 so one might wonder what they knew of love.
Later, in the 18th century, the day evolved into a card and gift-giving occasion as lovers sent hand written cards (valentines), flowers and sweets to each other as an expression of their love. Eventually, hand written valentines were replaced with mass-produced cards. And now, one can send a valentine ‘e-card’ or electronic card. At the moment, there are no electronic flowers (which would be good for someone with allergies) nor electronic candies (which would be good for me as I could not eat them and gain weight).
Many people plan and have romantic dinners by candlelight (always snuff out the candles before leaving the room and make sure your fire extinguisher is handy). And a few, say ‘bah humbug’ and do nothing. Where do you fall in that mix? Feel free to let us know!
Whatever you do or do not do for Valentine’s Day – I hope it is safe and happy!