Shaquille O’Neal’s $16 Million Mansion Tour in Orlando Florida

Marked down from $28 Million

I said last Blog that I was going to tell you about my Adventures with Camel bucks and so here is where we’ll start—–first of all you have to understand my thing about England:

First there was my dad—he was in WWII and was stationed near London prior to going in at Normandy.  He raised his oldest little girl with accounts of how the city had been bombed by the Germans and how brave the people were who lived ther, He added stores of a few of the English girls he dated (I think mom was else where then) and thing he had seen around the capital—and how they did things different and saw things different and so on—–so I’d already figured (as I was a DADDY’S GIRL) that England was wonderful—Cool and groovey weren’t invented yet—I know before your time!!

Then I found a book in my school’s libary about the Tower of London and the persons who had met their end there—-from there I started to read about Henry VIII and the unbelievalbe chain of wives he wed and discarded—Divorced, Beheaded, Died, Annulled, Beheaded and Outlived.  It opened me to all other lines of English history and architectture and literature…..OH MY

And then in the 60’s I set with my parents (like most we only had one TV then)—and watch 4 young men from Liverpool and from then on there wasn’t much of me that wasn’t devoted to England and as time went by I had added the music of SOOOOOOOO many groups of singer from all over the isle.

Come back on Friday and I will tell you how this gentleman shown below—the one without the horse –played into this whole England thingfor me  with his smokes.

Click on the blue bold words for more information as you move along through the blog please.

Wicca

Hawthorne Flowrs symbolize female mystery and fertility and among Wiccans, the plant is traditionally believed to be so magically potent that it is considered unlucky to cut it or to bring it inside except on May eve, when it is used to deck the Beltane altar.

Beltane

 save the lives of cats and dogs all-across America

“The Texan’s Texas.”

Flying Horss Antique Carousel-–Fully restored the carousel is one of eight that exist in Texas today and is the only example of a C.W. Parker carousel with Herschell-Spillman horses.  Manufactured prior to 1910, it is housed in a unique 16-sided WPA building in Fireman’s Park.  www.cityofbrenham.org/parks

History of Carousels – Merry-go-round and Amusement Rides

Things to do in Palatka, The Gem City on the St. John’s River

In Florida.

Branson-Mulholland House (c1856)

Pictured above

Click on name above for a tour of the house on You Tube

Bronson-Mulholland House
100 Madison Street
Palatka, FL 32177

Visitor’s information here

The House is fully furnished with period antiques, and the surrounding grounds have recently been restored to their historic splendor – expansive lawns and charming gardens with brick paths. The first floor of the Bronson-Mulholland House is ADA accessible via a ramp on the left side of the building. There are also wheelchair accessible public restrooms and a modern kitchen for use by caterers.

Putnam County Historical Society and Museum

Click here for information on visits

110 Madison Street

next to th Mulholland House

The oldest extant dwelling from Palatka.  Originally part of Ft. Shannon during the Indian Wars.

The Ravine State Gardens (c 1933)

To get visiting times and other specific information click here

1600 Twigg Street

Ravine Gardens State Park is a 59-acre Florida State Park located in Palatka, Florida. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park was constructed by the Works Progress Administration, with cypress buildings, rock gardens and fieldstone terraces.

St. Michaels Le Belfry

The window on the north side of St. Mike’s Church in York, next to the organ show the story of how Thomas a Becket‘s father, Gilbert the Sherriff of London, met his mother, Matildia.  Gilbert had been captured by pirates but Matilda, the pirate’s daughter, fell in love with him.  He escaped and Matilda made her way to London to find him.  The other pictures show Matilda being baptised and thier marriage.

Becket Complete Peter O Toole Richard Burton

The Case Of The Restless Redhead

The Celts – BBC Series, Episode 2 – Heroes in Defeat – Full Episode

Property for the Celts was somewhere between private and communal—ownership boundaries of Communal land was ill-defined based mainly on the tribe’s ability to maintain it.

Celtic Britain – Mysterious Britain – Full Documentary

Nell Gwynne Tavern, Strand, London – ideal for scaffolding enthusiasts

(picture is mine from first time in London—which I’ll tell you more about next time.

I’ve been sharing my watch lists lately to see if I can’t make your life a little more interesting despite the fact that you’re locked in to keep yourself and your family safe from this horriable virus.

Last wek I watchef “Baby God”    on HBO  (on Demand/Special–Documentary).  This is a true story about a doctor who uses his own sperm to ineminate many of his fertility patients.  The movie is stark and a bit disturbing when one thinks about the faith many of us have in our doctor.  Dr. Clive was the doctor and an article I read (dated 2019) stated there had been confirmation that at least 50 of the children born at his clinic have been verified by testing as his.  None of this was disclosed at the clinc, whose patients were told that the donner were medical studients.  There are some of the decendents who are finding out or are looking for others and much more.  It’s not for everyone but as a former nurse it’s very interesting.

I’m still on the Agatha Christie Kick.  Poriot adventure was on PBS lately—The Halloween Party  

This is a rather grim one with a death in the apple bob bin and spirals from then.

090: Ancient Stones of Avebury (Avebury Stone Circle and Avebury Manor) (North Wessex Downs 2017)

The small town of Avebury is situated inside of the Stone Circle—

in my picture below—click on above to take a 19 min walk about the area

UCF Profiles – Goldsboro

New Mount Calvary Church:  12 Street In Goldsboro town in what is now Sanford:  Founded in 1918 by several members of First Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.  Initially the service wre held at the home of Mr. J.W. Simmons on Avocado Ave and at the New Salem Primitive Baptist Church.  Original building constructed 1920, rebuilt 1938.  Historical building retains its original double entry towers.

Videos Goldsboro Museum

Porlock, Summerset —UK

This is a flower filled village with steep, winding streets and thatched houses many of which are medieva with sturdily built chimneys.  While other more reaction ons have imitation Tudor facades.

Donerhans Manor House Museum

15th century but restored in 1883 

Welcome to the Manor

Village Hall

Built in 1925—used for weddings and other events.

St. Dubricius Church

Welsh Saint

Oldest object in the church is a fragment of a pre-Norman Cross in the south aisle.  The 13th century tower is topped by an unusual spire of wooden shingles,

The church was largely reconstructed in the 15 c.  Windows were replaced and the roof replaced on one area.

There is an Alabaster monument of John Harrington and his wife

100 Things to do in TOKYO, JAPAN | Japan Travel Guide

The greater Tokyo metropolitan area is made up of 3 prefectures and includes the capital of Japan, Tokyo, and has an estimated population of 38.14 million people making it the most populated megacity in the world.

Japan Travel Guide – How to travel Japan

Big Ben’s History

As I’ve said before that keeping busy helps the time move on and seem shorter than it was.  I mop floors, clean out cabinets, organize desks, that sort of thing.  I find my mind stays sharper and my spirit is brighter and less weepy if i do something.  Walking around the neighborhood helps.  Talking to my neighbors in the fresh air and over the distance of lawns helps and allows me to operate without a mask for a few .  The sun helping and the bad germs gone with the wind.

And more thing to watch—and actually learn a few new things while we are at it—AHC (American Hero Channel) Has a War Time Crime series-–I’ve seen two that were interesting—-One was The SIilian Connection.  and deals with members of the Mafia who went against the axis —seems Mussolini was out to rid Italy of the old boys club so they decided to go with the Allies—it’s an intereting account of who helped where and did what.  The second was crime in Britain  and the criminals who took power as a result of activities and conditions during the blitz in London—this is also on AHC

Oh and the Smithstonian Channel has Secrets of the Third Reich—Secret Submarines was the one I just watched (again WWII) and I must say I learned more about being on a sub tham I had even considered—if you’re interested in this kinda thing I recommend it for an hour of possibly (for me it was) of new and more well rounded knowledge as we looked as the sailors of the  Third Reich as human beings and not just part of the Nazi horror that tried to take over the world.

Also there’s a new series of mysteries on Master Piece (PBS) Endevor.  A murder mystery featuring Dective Sgt. Morris who solves muders in the late 50’s in Oxford, UK.

Timeless London Walking Tour | That London Life

Visit Wales – The DON’Ts of Visiting Wales

Agrona goddess of slaughter:  Founded river Aeron.  Washer at the Ford.  Possibly the goddes of battle as well.

North Wales: Feisty and Poetic

Gut check: How the microbiome may mediate heart health

9 Ways to Do Jalapeño Poppers

York Minster is the largest medieval church in England.  It also has the largest amount of medieval glass (1/2 total remaining and the largest amount north of the Alps.

Evensong for the Feast of St Peter from York Minster 2020

Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park

Nestled in a small wooded area hear Homosassa, the ruins of the Yulee Sugar Mill are one of Fkiruda’s most evocative historic settings.  First presented to the Citrus County Federation of Woman’s Clubs in 1923, the six acre site was deeded to the state in 1953.

Things to do in Crystal River on a Weekend Getaway

Ogmios is a piece of pottery found at Richborough–a figure with long curly hair and sunrays radiating from it’s head and holding a whip of Sol Invictus

The Celts – BBC Series, Episode 1 – In the Beginning – Full Episode

and the Viking Center in that many conquerors held sway—-goes virtual and won’t let a virus stop them—since I’ve been on their site and get their emails I got this today and thought I’d pass it along for you Viking fans (not football—but)

With restrictions on gatherings, we are not able to host the annual JORVIK Viking Festival in February 2021, so instead, we’ve created a new event that can be accessed entirely online.

An Evening with Einar

In Viking times, a ‘Thing’ was a gathering; a place where leaders and warriors could meet and talk. In the 21st century, the term ‘Thing’ is used around the world when Viking academics come together to share knowledge. 

Learn a New Skill

That JORVIK Viking Thing, which runs form 15 to 20 February 2021, will do this and so much more, with content to appeal to Viking enthusiasts and Norse novices of all ages.

and their main site:  For the THING

Bunhill Fields Burial Ground

Bunhill Fields on Old Street in London is the site of two writers Daniel Defoe and William Blake.

Bunhill Fields with Alice Ford-Smith | Medical London

This week I watched a movie —–like 1930’s murder mystery which was fun—it was on TCM of course:  Murder on the Blackboard   a Hildegrade Withers (Edna Mae Oliver) mystery.  These are the stories of a school teacher who solves muders.  A fiesty, spinster,, school teacher, with a dry, bitting wit (I have a second The Penguin Pool recorded).  The movie I just watched is a 1930’s piece which is an uncomplicated wise cracking piece that is fun to watch.  Again folks there is no color–but since a lot of it is in a school house after everyone but Ms WIthers has left and most of the lights are out you won’t miss it so much and there are no beautiful sets or costumes—something simple in this day and age simple can be such a relief.

So what have you been doing lately—I never hear from anyon but Spam—do they still make that in a pseudo food group—supposedly a “meat”.  But I just get the useless, and aggravating ads and junk to burden my site.

I was reading the other day that some of the delay in getting vaccine for many seniors are so out of the computer systems that they can’t use—so they miss info on a scheduled event or a quick way to sign up and like that—So please check on your parents or granparents or some older couples that live in your building and help them gain access to this system so they can help themselves—-you might just save their life.

Tintagel: King Arthur’s Legendary Castle

Sir Percival (Peredur) was a Virgin Knight whose quest for the grail was the main thrust of the stories we have about him.

King Arthur documentary presented by Richard Harris    

Top 10 Monty Python’s Flying Circus Moment

Virtual Travel & Adventure Show: Africa

Jeanine Taylor Folk Art’s first show of the new year,–opens 1/23

Selworthy village

Selworthy, Sommerset is an estate village two miles north of Luscombe.  It has a fine church mostly 16th c with unusual white exterior and tithe barn (15th c).  It is said to be probably thee prettist village in Val of Porloch.  Several old cottages.  Also Selworthy Bacon with fine views.

Lockdown 2021 MTB Ride over to North Hill & Selworthy Beacon!

Is it just me or to THINGS bother you (me!) more whe we’re in lock up–I mean down?  Was out one day this week–grocery store and back home again in no time.

Watched Murder She Said on TCM another Agatha Christie and even though this one is early 60’s  itt was also B&W.  Seem to be into Agatha a lot lately—just saw the PBS show Inside the Mind of Agatha Christie  

which was quite good—seems the lady is almost as (or at least almost) as interestting as her books.  I watched another interesting  movie—another Miss Marple one but for the life of me I can’t recall the name.  These have been on TBS lately and all feature Margaret Rutherford–I am use to the lesser ladies on PBS…but Ms Rutherford is quite good at this.

Hazel Archer-Ginsberg: Mysteries of the Celtic Goddesses

The Raven is associated with the war goddesses as well as being a symbol of prophecy and omens

Celtic Mythology – An Introduction to the Tuatha Dé Danann

West Texas: Nature & Outdoor Adventure | #Texplorer

How to paint a Weeping Willow Tree – STEP by STEP

In Northern Europe, the word witch and wicked is derived from the name of the Willow (tree).  It is considered to be a tree of enchantment.

Legend of the Weeping Willow

Sarasota-–Home of a Circus King

In 1926 Ca’D’ Zan (house of John) was completed on US Highway 41 in Sarasota, Fl.    The house cost  $1.5 Million to buld and had elemens of facade of Doge’s Palace in Vinice and a tower like the Old Madison Square Garden in New York

Designed by NY architect Dwight James Baum.  Constructed of stucco & Terra cotta tiles in a variety of color in the roof.  It is a 2 1/2 story house with barrel tiles from Barcelona.  The windows are made of handmade venetian tinted glass.  Colums, dorway, balustrades, tiles and arched windows were all imported from Italy.  It has a fanciful Vennetian Renaissance style roofed court.  It has 30 bedrooms and 14 baths, a kitchen and servant quarters in the south wing.

Furnishing are from the homes of Vincent Astor and Jay Gould  

are to be found in the house (now a museum) incluing a $50,000 Acolian Organ, A Steinway grand piano and 17th century tapestris.

The house was build for John and Mable Ringling

John Ringling

John was one of six brother that opened their first circusin 1882 which grew into a huge show and eventually they were able to buy out their biggest competor the “Barnum & Bailey CIrcus and by 1929 they had bought out most if not all traveling circuses in the entire USA. Shortly after he lost his wife and his furtune and by 1932 was voted out of control of the Circus corporation.  He passed on in 1939 leaving the house and art collection to the state of Florida.

Inside History: Lake Okeechobee

Next week I’ll tell you about a trip we took to England provided by a cigarette company ——-what the tour offered and lots more…..So stay tuned please

to find my introduction to England and later the UK and the fault of me being head over heals in love with that country—–I’ve ben other places but not too many other countries as I keep insisting on going back to the the UK—and I just insist that  I go there because A.  Its a safe country to visit.  B.  We speak the same language,  kind of and finally because they don’t for the most part—hate Americans or Yanks as I’ve often been called.

Anna Russell The (First) Farewell Concert (vaimusic.com)

Rollins College, in Winter Park, Fl. played a key rule in early entertainment in Orlando.  he acclaimed Annie Russeel Theater was the hub of local enyertainment.  Named after noted stage acttress, Annie Russel, who made her permanent home on Via Tucany, in the bautiful suburb of Winter Park.  Mss Russsel, stage significant plays and conceerts beginning in 1931, which till continues today.  During Miss Russell’s tenur and two years after she retired, two troupes formed at the theater, one being known as The Anne Russel Troupe.

Campus Tour | Annie Russell Theatre

Top 10 Local Gems to Visit with 3 Days in London

The period of the Vernal Equinox is an extremely important period of the Celtic year as it represents free will and libberty in a moral context.

Ancient Celts (Kelts) — the first masters of Europe

West Palm Beach Florida Travel Tour 4K

Singer Island is located a few miles north of Palm Beach, and it offers a sweep of bautiful beeaches, ocran front hotel and condos.

TOP BEACH: The Best Beach Singer Island Florida!

Sanford Florida is located north on 17-92 —-You can take I-4 and get off going east on 46 and then left on 17-92 (or from the north–or if you’re coming from the north-take 17-92 exit east to town.

One of the nicest things about Sanford is it miles of lake front along Lake Monroe.  Down town there’s a walk along the lke and several porch swings are available for a place to rest—or maybe read or just set there and enjoy the tranquility.   Also along the lake is the Mayfair Inn —-this hotel was built  by and ended in his jailing, of a mayor of this good town and it was owned by many including a basball team, and a group of missionaries to name a few.

The Central Florida Zoo has been a popular destination since the 1930’s and 40’s, a place where people came to see the wildlife interestingly I’ve read that they started with animals resuced by the fire department—now they have  rhinos, antelopes and many more to see—there’s lots of things to do, food and drink, and its all in a lovely setting.  and between I-4 and downtown Sanford on 17-92.

There is much more to see in downtown Sanford including a museum, an information center, several restaurants including the Willow Tree, a German restaurant which along with it’s deli and other shop     takes up alot of the block it is on in downtown Sanford.

Oh and you can take the Train—-at Sanford Depota you can take the free shuttle into town. (Both Amtrack and Sunrail.)

Life goes on, and despite the promises I do not see that we as a country are greater—so many of us set stunned by the failure of managing the virus, as well as the mob—-some days seem over whelming for no reason than we feel we have lost so much control of so much of everything—but if you are like me, you cling on to a hope that we will recover and overcome and that along with our friends and family and maybe ever the goverment we will bring the country back to a positive and hopefully much better (I will settle for that and concede great to lesser minds.)

While the current situation has limited us on where we go and what we do I am trying to find and make available to you facts and  places not only in words but in informative or attractive or somewhere along those lines in a hope to keep you sharp and happy and focused on a future that will be better and allow us all to follow our dreams.

I acctually got my tree (as in Christmas) this last weekend and all the decorations down and put a way—so I feel like I’ve accomplished something this week.    It made my day go faster—which always happens when I keep busy—that the drag of the day is gone.   How about you what have you been doing?

Saint Denis Basilica Cathedral – Paris, France – July 22, 2013

St. Denys is associated with St. Denis (or Dionysius) of Paris.  He was a missionary bishop sent to Gaul by the Pope, and was beheaded at the place now called Montmatre (Martyr’s Hill) in 258 AD.  St Denis was long regarded as the patron  saint of France.

St Denis’ church, Otterham

24 Hours In a German Castle

Aroma Therapy:  Frankincense:  One of the most treasuresd and costly substances of the ancient world.  Deep and profound, evokes a sense of faith, inner strength and stability.

Why the 3 Wise Men’s frankincense and myrrh gifts are valued to this day

I mentioned Sanford before but though you might be intrested in a section of the town that once was a town itself.

Sanford contains what was once the town of Godsboro—the second oldest incorporated (Dec. 1, 1891) African-American municipality in the state of Florida,  (Eatonville was the first).  It was for Blacks who worked locally in rail yards, farms and the like.  It was approximately a 1/2 mile square with boundaries of Clark Street (east), Mulberry Street (west), 10 th street (north) and Harrison Street (south).

William Clark, was a business man who established one of the first stores in the town and it was through his efforts that the town was incorporated, he also served as the town’s first policeman as well as tax collector.  He also was a realator (Presidnt of the Sanford Real Estate Company) who contriuted to the growth  and development of the town.

The Free Will Holiness Church

814 Mulberry Ave.

1832

Founded by “Mother” Ruby Lee Wilson and congragation members initially in an old building it is said you could see the star and moon through holes in the roof.  They eventually purchased the site and built a new church.  By 1948 they had built The Good Samaritan House which provided food, shelter, and refuge for the poor, seniors and others in need.

Retracing The Roman Roads of Britain | Ancient Tracks | Timeline

The Britons wore nothing as they wielded swords, spears and shields against the armoulered Romans.  Instead they painted themselves blue with an extract of the woad plant to make themselves more frightening.

A History of Britain – Celts and Romans (800 BC – 1 AD)

Watching my recorded shows again tonight—had a drive thru Wendy’s dinner for me and roomie.  What I have listen to and read so far does not indicate transmission on food.  Boubonic plague was caused by rat’s fleas’ bites–but it could mutate to the much more serious pneumonic plague that was transmitted by the infected person’s breath.

What do you do to keep your mind from hiding somewhere deep inside you?  What do you do to keep yourself sane and if so is it safe—and which is most important to you–your life or your activities  I as of late, have encouraged you to live on line but that is not always near enough.  A Sultan never cries, but the rest of us are allowed to weep from time to time.

They’ve had pictures of Michigan on the news lately–the captial being guarded.  It was snowing and some accumulation on the ground alreay.  Me thinks its going to be a cold, long winter all over—just more of the legacy of 2020–I do not miss the snow and bitter cold.

ANCIENT PROVERBS (True Wisdom)

Birds singing in the rain indicates fair weather approaching.

This is because birds actually do sing if the weather is improving.

25 most commonly used Proverbs and their Meaning

Glastonbury, England: the town and the abbey

“Numerou lengends have grown up around Glastonbury Abbey, which is now thought to have been founded in the 6rh century.  Believed at one time to have been foundd  (by the disciples of Jesus) even earlier, it was later associated with Joseph of Arimathea, who is supposed to have brought the Holy Grail here after Christ’s crucifixon.”

Monasteries

Mark Hattstein

Glastonbury Videos and Youtube Movies

(Glastonbury, Somerset, England, UK)

Tips to Build a Strong Immune System

You can damage your immune system by smoking, vaping, excessive consumption of alcohol, poor nutrition and lack of sleep.

12 HEALTHY HABITS & TIPS | change your life + … – YouTube

Convento do Cristo – Tomar – Portugal

The Templers, came to Portugal in the 12th century when Alfonso I was king (1139-85) in an effort to assist the king in freeing his country from the Moors.  This castle was started in 1160 and a cloister in 1162.

The Templars fell from favor into disfavor in the twelfth century—beginning with the French King’s prosecution and executions, which most historians now feel was due to his need for funds and the Templars being a rich order-—Henry VIII made similar gain with the monasteries  in England a few hundered years later.  But interesting enough Portugal did not turn on the order within its borders when most countries joined the French in their denoucement of the Monk-Knights, and they remained there and in their castle until 1319 when the order was dissolved—and another order (Order of Christ) took over the site.

As time progressed the site grew as did the number of cloisters went up to a total of eight.  More major building was started in 1510 and like most sites assoiated with the Templars many Legends sprang up including that pesky Holy Grail one again.

The Druids (In Our Time) – YouTube

Legend says the Oghma Alphabet was given to humans by the god Ogna–the god of eloquance.  Letters were written in straight lines that bisected or met a central long line or stem.  Bards used it for sending coded messages.  Letters were linked with trees, people, placs and objects Druids used in magic.

Ogham Alphabet

Church of St John the Baptist, Glastonbury

St. John the Baptist church in Glastonbury 2020

The oddities of Treasurer’s House in York

York Treauer’s House:  Buried beneath the floor of the cellar was the old Roman Road

Real life ghost stories from our most haunted houses – Treasurer’s House, York

If you want to get away how about trying some TV shows—this is one I include in my regular recordings

Travels with Darley

This show’s last episode I watched was Northen England and Wales

It included Haworth and the Moors that inspired the Bronte SIsters

Castle Howard-–a beautiful home and one of the first houses to have corridors.  It is a private home with tours

Gothland Station—used as Hogworth’s train depot in the Harry Potter movies

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360 Virtual Tour New Orleans Catholic Cemeteries

Hollywood Forever Cemetery – Famous Celebrity Grave Tour / Movie Star History & MUCH MORE

Celtic Oaths were used by the long past–and were not just a simple declaration of interest—They were generally uttered in public and in the presence of a Druid who called the gods as wintesses–it went beyond the secular domain.

Early Irish Society: The Old Religion and the Druids | Brehon Law Academy (youtube)

Take Me To Pitcairn – Full Documentary

This program was given to me at assembly meeting when I was in High School—We enjoyed a program by one of the descendents of Fletcher Christain—the leading muntineer against Captain Bligh in one of the most famous ship’s mutinies ever.

Exploring Pitcairn Islands | One of the Most Remote Places in the World

20 Things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland Travel Guide

Edinburg’s Corstorphine Hill has nature trails in the glen at the Hermitage of Braid.  In 1778 mutineers from the Scottish Seaforth Highlanders occupied the hill until they were assured that the rumours that they were going to be shipped to slave plantations was false.

The best walk in Edinburgh – join us on a walk around The Seven Hills of Edinburgh!

~ 
It is an extraordinary thing to consider that there are still literally thousands of holy wells in the British Isles. Most of these are natural springs; some open pools like St.Madron’s, while others are contained by a stone edifice, often covered. The majority, however,are in ruins, overgrown and no longer visited. Some have been desecrated by cattle or human presence. And yet, many, like St.Madron’s, still continue to be a center of pilgrimage as they were from pagan times.

by Mara Freeman

https://druidry.org/resources/sacred-waters-holy-wells

Somerset has many holy today we’ll look at three of them.

Alford 

A mineral spring about 3/4 mile from  the Alford Church.  Pilgrams and worshipers many from great distance,  came here for cures from scurvy, jaundice, “obstructions” and the King’s Evil.  The spring is on a farm named Alfred Well.  The well acording to early sources was enclosd in a locked shed.

Ansford

St. Andrew’s Well

A reverand in 1921 mention having knowledge of a holy well that was in the parrish

which was said to heal eye aliments.  It is possible that the church gave its name to the well which was probably used by the people prior to Christianity though I have no idea what the well’s name was then (even I’m not that old)—there are reports that the water there was used for  church baptisms after the pagan worship had been replaced with Christianity.  The sources I read say that the well has almost or in fact has totally vanished.

Ashill

Fog & frost, Ashill,Somerset .December 7, 2010.wmv

St.  Nipperham’s or Skiverton’s, maybe Skipperton’s and I underatand that  there’s many more names the well here has reportedly been called.  but seems like the bets are in that the well was named for St. Cyprion.   This well is known for bubbling up.  It is visited for healing the digestive system and is popular in the spring (May) for drinking and bathing.

IN April 1885 The Florida Congregational Association choose Winter Park as the site of what would be Florida’s first four-year college, based on residents’ generous pledges of funds and land.  The first term of Rollins College began that November.

Rollins College

In house again or rather STILL–too cold for a walk—what happened to the girl who was born in the cold—who grew up doing snowball flights and ice skating….I was never good at either—but at least I could blame weak ankles for the skating failures

Watching Miss Marple and working on some odds and ends that need to be done.  Like trying to figure out why the cats are yelling at me—THIS TIME!!  But what’s another day of staying in and being bored–beyond that.  My brrain shuts down almost–it works in a more sluggish way, processing slower, sometimes having to catch up with the body’s ongoing activity.  It’s almost as if it has snagged on a bit of information while the body progresses on rote activitirs rather mindless which luckily it has done many, many times before.

Actually my TV watching recorded shows has added some new knowledg to it all–lately have started on th Ottaman empre an area I know very little on.

Travelling to and from our airport | Fly Safe | Heathrow

From the Airports (London):  Heathrow:  Take the Tube into town and then take a taxi to your hotel.

Gatwick:  Express train services takes you to Victoria Station in half an hour—there’s lots of hotels and restaurants in and around the station—which has a grocery store, an herbal store and a chemist (think drug store) not to mention a food court and several other stores that suit the tourists and more.

A Walk Through The London Victoria Station, London, England

Biggest hoards found by amateur archaeologists in the UK

In the UK the law said:  “treasurs hid in the earth and found shall belong to the Crown.   UK to Change Treasure Act – New Restrictions Proposed

Incredible REAL LIFE Treasure Finds

Try something different this time:

Central Florida has a lot more history than you may think—take Longwood for instance.  The town which is situated at I-4 on the west and 17-92 on the East—basically along 434.  To get to the small downtown turn north on 427–and at the next light turn left or right to find parking—there’s plenty. Or you can get on the local computer train and go to the Longwood terminal and then just walk west toward 427.

Longwood’s Historic District Walking Tour

Back in the 1920’s big time gambling was reported to be available at the Orange and Black Hotel.  Residents at that time complained of not being able to rest at night due to the music at the hotel playing into the night.  That same hotel has had everything there from a umpire school, a movie filming site and a majory meeting for the USA governors as well as being the home to at least one ghost in its long life.

Have fun and make a splash in Orlando North

Longwood in the 20’s and into the 30’s had an active tourist community and winter visitors that held weekly meetings at the Woman’s Club plus put on plays, sing alongs they even had a shuffleboard team and there were games against other Central Florida communities—nothing left to say how well they did though (snicker, snicker).  And picnics and the like were held at Sanlando Springs.   So next time you’re looking for somewhere to go on a weekend or if you’re visiting from out of town and want to see what a real small town in the real Florida  looked/looks? like–give this small but nice town a chance

A Visual Tour of The Bradlee Mcintyre House in Longwood, Florida

 Love Letters In The Sand

What Jacksonville-born entrtainer/author wrote Between You and Me and Gatepost in 1960 and A New Song in 1971?

Pat Boone

Born In Florida  Famous-Notable People

and more

Born In Florida Famous-Notable People

I don’t know about you but the days of the week have been basically lost with me not having some set structure to keep them in order.  I work at home but there is little change from one day to the next.   I have to consult my computer or phone to show where I am in the organized passing of time—-the TV doesn’t help much as so much of it is just the same ole same ole if you know what I mean?!  Some times I actually just set there and work it out myself—so far (fingers crossed) I haven’t lost the months yet.

And as if we don’t have enough to worry about—it look like they are going to use up all the initial vaccine up without giving any 2nd shots which could mean that it is all wasted as if you don’t get a second shot you aren’t immune and I have another question which might be very pertinent—-how long after the first shot will it be useless so that you will have to get 2 more shots rather than one?—-The government impresses me less and less every day with their lack of any practicality or usefulness in working any of this out.

I guess I’ll get started on my taxes—-get the paper work together.  My mail order business has been put on hold for months due to the necessity of going to the post office so often.  At least I’ll have less to figure out…..a sign of the times when something negative proves to be the best reality that you have to think up……tell me folks what are you all doing out there to keep sane.

and yes they are baby pics of me.

Joshua’s Heart | Full Movie | Melissa Gilbert | Tim Matheson | Matthew Lawrence | Lisa Eilbacher

Chest discomfort:  Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back.  It can feel like uncomfortalr pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Top 10 Feel-Good Films (To Watch During Quarantine)

one more time

My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys

Why Romans Adored Emperor Vespasian … – YouTube

The Romans saw Britain as the northernmost part of the world, a land on the very edge of civilization.  The tales of barbaric ritual carried out in shady groves and of screaming, half-human savages, petrified even the battle hardened troops of Claudius in AD43.  The Roman soldiers were paralysed with fear before they stormed the druids powerbase on Angelesy in AD59.

Roman Britain–Heritage Series

The Druids: What Do We Really Know?

Veterinarians Debunk 15 Dog Myths

The Dog Days of Summer coincide with the year’s rising of the Dog Star Sirius (at sunrise).  This was of most import to the ancient Egyptians as this star rose just before the starting of the Nile flood season…and so this let them know when this was to be—-and it also forcast the coming of summer and it’s hot weather.

Black Dog Ghost Mythology & Folklore

I had no idea that Scotland had so many famous scenes in so many famous movies—-like the Hogwarts Express on it’s way to the school crossing this bridge is actually taken at Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scotish Highlands (filming in 2002 and 2004)

But the Highlands was the site of other filmings.

The Morar beaches 

in 1986 The Higlander   

Rob Roy in 1995

that film crew built a cottage on the northern shore of MorarLoch as one of Rob Roy’s homes.

Glen Nevin

was used in 1995 for the movie

Braveheart‘s early scenes including the adult hero’s return to his home.

While Stanley Kuback in 1968 did an entirely different type of scene here when he filmed the final scene of 2001 A Space Odyssey here

and finally Glen Coe

Here in 1935 Hitcock had Richard Hannan persued across the Glen in the movie The 39 Steps

and then again it appeared in the 2012 James Bond offering:  Skyfall

Damh The Bard – Brighid  

In ancient times the Rowan tree was said to be magical and it’s red berries nourished the gods.  Infact it was believed that the gods guarded these trees.

Brighde Brigantia’s Call

The picture is of the Tor—and from one of my trips on a day trip with a tour out of London.

Walks in Somerset: Exploring Glastonbury Tor

I apologize about not doing many blogs lately—-I am not in a very up mode between the virus and those citizens that are threatening to destroy the counytry that I have lived comfortably in for so many year and love dearly.  We are consumed in the time of plague and violence consumes our time and threatens our freedom while we remain in fear without relief.

Ok less dramatic—but things seem to be esculating out of all reason…I am in a time of my life when I had hoped for relaxation, travel and the company of friend and new aquaintances about.

Needless to say this has not been the case for near on a  year with me spending the majority of my hours reading and communicating in one way or the other on the computer and calling my closer friends for relief from the TV shows and movies that seem to be continually run and re-run for ever and ever, Amen.

Ancient Exploration: Old Sarum

Below is Old Sarum—-I visited here on my first trip to UK—where I stayed for two weeks by myself in London and took day tours out and about to places I wanted to see…..

A History of Central Florida

Slavia

was a colony in  Central Florida established in 1912 on what is now SR 46 by the Duda family and other Slavic settlers in the area.

The Duda Family

Aromatherapy: A Beginner’s Guide

Getting thru our house arrest

Aroma Therapy

Eucalyptus

This aroma is Invigoratin, penetrating,  balancing and it is known for opening the energetic pathways of the body and the mind.

Aromatherapy for Anxiety – How Does It Work?

The Boscastle and Tintagel Area of Cornwall is a bit off the beaten path though they are quite of interest to the tourists who come seartching for a spot of ancient times, a whiff of King Arthur and more—the area of Lesnewth 

has a church of St. Michael and All Angels .  This church was originally built in Saxon times and sets in a dip which was reportedly slected as a way to hide it from the sea and thus the Vikings which at this time were quite a problem.  And while they wer hidden from the sea they wer sitll found by the Vikings,  as the church proved to be right along the route that the marauders took to pillage the Manor of Helset and so they were included in the pillage—two for one you might say

More invaders (and with major Viking ancestry) the Normans were here in the 12th century and built another church here—-and the tower you see today was built 300 years later.  described as a beautiful church as is often the case in the UK the church deteriorated over time and in 1862 wa in poor repair by the early 1860’s.  Then J.P. St. Aubyn, an archtect (natch) came along and was suppose to restore it but he basically tore the majority of it down and kept little of the previous ancient church.

Today what you see is a Victorian recreation (hey it’s over 150 years old so for us Americans seeing something like that is impressive)—but wander what the villages’ opinion was of St. Aubyn’s work?   But it does still hold the name of the Protector of Cornwall so that’s a good thing.

The Moon, Religion and Science – Belief in Dialogue (1/6)

The moon’s cycles were considered by some ancient beliefs to be the total of all lives lived.

Chandra – God Of The Moon

This is Highgate cemetery—-well worth a visit

LONDON: Stunning HIGHGATE CEMETERY 

Before this plague all began I had spent monyhs planning and discussing and then making reservations for a month  (actually 33 days) long get away to the UK, with a close, long time friend (who had accompanied me on three previous trips) and a newer aquaintance whom we had meet more recently and who we’d invited to come with us.  But with the coming of the virus that hope gradually faded until it currently is a vague idea that we may be able to take the trip in 2022.

With all the world and especially the USA going bonkers I have cut down my time watchin news reports—except the local ones.  In fact I’ve have gone a lot to shows I’ve recorded—things like Miss Fisher’s and Midsummer both murder mysteries—and of course the old movies like The Thin Man goes Home.  I know a lot of people these days won’t watch black and white—I think so many of our productions now days are less than they can be because they are so disguised with color and special effects, three D and what ever,  that they lack the plot and dialogue that is what for me makes the thing!  when you take all that away then you have to put something there that entertains and keeps the interest….ah gee what could that be?

If it’s not too cold or rainy there’s walks outside in some area where the crowds don’t form a health risk of course.  Do note in reference to  that last paragraph–that I will skip the Jack Lemon moviies since personally don’t think they (movies) or he is particularly funny,

and I took this one somewhere about London….

Rise of the Knights Templar – full documentary

The Templers came into existance in the second decade of the 12th century and their original function was not hiding treasure so we could have unlimited reality shows about them on TV.  but in protecting pilgrams on the dangerous road from the Port of Jaffa and up the road to Jeresulem.

Holy Land – Ep: 1 | Crusades | 

more my London pics—see site below for building details

THOMAS MOORE CHAMBERS

and in case you don’t know Sir Moore

The Life of St. Thomas More – YouTube

and can’t forget the main picture

Old Curosity Shop  in London too

65+ Best Dinner and Party Foods to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Weather without the Weather man:

Migrating birds flying high in the sky means fair weather

and so it does—or they do or whatever.

seems that these birds fly more easily in dense high pressure condition and these conditions are associated with fair weather—-so see you don’t need the TV.

2020’s new reality:   REALIZE IT’S OK TO NOT FEEL OK

Some how I am so ready for another year—but I don’t have much celebration left in me—-there were two of us for Christmas dinner—-I will probably get myself to bed early on the 31st just so I won’t feel sorry for myself that I’m partying alone—– 2020 has been like I’m the Planter’s nut guy and the whole year was the nut cracker guy………but I promised my self no whinning so let.s move on.

For instance did you know the MOON was a symblol o the cycles of life to the ancient Celts?   Hey I had to change subjects quickly there—- what would you like to talk about?

7 Unusual Myths and Theories About the Moon

7 Tips For Hosting Your New Year’s Eve Party On Zoom

Sirius is the brightest star in the sky, (other than the sun).  It even can occasionally be seen during the daytime.  It is part of the constllation Canis—refrrred to as the Greater Dog and the star is called (DUH) Dog Star.

New Year’s Eve Party in Times Square Will Be Virtual

So how important to you is New Years Eve—-I tend to try to be asleep before midnight if I have no place to go—-I like parties but being a nurse gives me a very healthy respect for keeping my distance.  Some close friends of mine caught the virus from thier son who went on the weekends to see his girlfriend—-one weekend he left and returned and was apparently doing fine and then he got a call a couple of days later from his girl to tell him she’d tested positive—they went for testing within about 24 – 48 more hours and yep all three  were positive.  Personnally mingling with a few or more heavily drinking  friends and loosing all ideas of what their 2021 life might be spent in ICU on a ventilator for a large portion of January just doesn’t sound fund to me.

But I understand the craziness that one develops setting arund watching what passes for entertainment—-please don’t get me started on reality TV’s unreal take on life…..not being able to talk to anyone for hours and when you do set down together you often find you have nothing much to say or are just tired of saying it—-which makes for sometimes strained relationships even with close friends  and family member that you reside with and the like

Going crazy is something we’ve all said at time about our selves  or our friends, family and the like but the statistics have shown that the chances of this has risen studily since the beginning of this crazy year—so I’d think if you’re still sane and your family isn’t much crazier than they always have been you are doing better than a large portion of the world’s occupants right now.

17 New Year’s Eve Party Ideas for Kids

The Mary Astor was a British merchant ship that was on her way from New Orleans to Liverpool, England, with a load o Mexican silver when she sailed into a hurricane and she sank with the silver still aboard.  She went down just off Dog island, on the Gulf side of Florida.  The island is south of Carrabella off the Panhandle of the state.

Netflix’s New Year’s Eve countdown helps parents tuck in kids early

You might just spend the evening with your immediate family—-and binge a tv show that you all could enjoy and you could have snacks and sweets to eat or maybe a variety of flavoured pop corn or any manner of things and then you can all get into your jammies, stake out your favorate chair and/or couch and binge the shows or movies (i.e. Harry Potter).  You could have quizzes, themed drinks, snacks that go to a theme—-a contest for each of you to make a snack that goes to your binge theme—whatever seems like it will work for your group.  Instead of a movie series you could do movies by the same actor—or on a theme—car/race pictures—fairy tales or legends—there is no end to ideas and the decor could be appropriate—–these things can be simple and to the point or majorly involved and devoted to the theme and/or dream..  And getting everyone involved can take up several more days and  give the final party–binge whatever a satisifactory result.

If you are alone—a hook up by phone,  Zoom or the like with friends and/or family can help you through—even doing a virtual watching of Time Sqare event can relieve some of that lonliness and allow you to see if not actually do something on New Years Even.

Or include your pets with a few special treats with them and if possible a gathering on a couch to keep you company while you watch the events go by couldn’t hurt.

8 Shows to Binge Watch with a New Year’s Day ‘Hangover …

Aromatherapy

Cedarwood:  Balancing, grounding.  Enhances one’s connection to Spirit, aiding clarity, insight, wisdom and good judgement.  Inspires faith and optimism.  Relaxes the mind, eases nervous tension and anxiety, calms aggression.

30 Movies to Watch on New Year’s Eve, Because Going Out Is Not an Option

So please stay home and stay safe for the big night—-party with those you love in your household—-or on line with your friends and relatives further away—-stay safe and stay healthy and help put the virus to rest and return your life and those of the rest of the world back to a healthy and safe enviroment and make 2021 a time to remember for its wonderful return to a life we can all deal with and won’t constantly be trying to come up with excuses for our failures at social distancing and all that.  Make 2021 a lot more fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Living in lockdown: a few tips to help you get through it positively!

Wabasso, Florida

Settlers came to this area from Ossabaw, Ga.  and they just spelled their previous town’s name backwards to name their new residence.

HOW TO STAY SAFE AND SANE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: TIPS FROM TANNER CLINIC PHYSICIANS

Oh and the pictures in this one are from all my travels from time sent in Florida to a lot of other areas about the Us and beyond.

“To the old, long life and treasure; to the young, all health and pleasure.” — Ben Jonson   and my wish for you for 2022

Virtual Pub Quiz, Live! Christmas Eve Special  

Starts about 6 PM today (Christmas Eve) Eastern Standard time USA something to do…was steamed

I am trying to find you things to do—-cause if you’re like me you’re alone tonight—for the last several year my Christmas even entertainment was going to a friend’s house across time where I joined their family.  We exchanged gifts, munched on all manner of goodies and had a few drinks—being a single person with most of my father scattered about the USA I pretty much get by with a little help from my friends—-I do have a room mate but they have other points of interest so we tend to be creature passing in the day and/or night….and given this year with its isolation and all we are planning on spending the day together and tomorrow—if we survive the bad storms that are coming in as we speak….rain, wind and storms—-this year just keeps on giving and giving and never gives us a chance to say no thanks.

A Holly Jolly Christmas Song by Burl Ives

Still going thru the traditions of Christmas  How about Ginger Bread Men

I looked about an found that there are many theories on all that—as usual—One source says they originated from Elizabeth I’s court (UK)  when she had them made to imitate some of her guests—I hadn’t heard that one before but it is a fun ideal;  To get an idea of what Tudor Christmas was like check out:  Lucy Worsley’s 12 Days of Tudor Christmas  Very interesting.

According to a PBS site:  “No confection symbolizes the holidays quite like gingerbread in its many forms, from edible houses to candy-studded gingerbread men to spiced loaves of cake-like bread. In Medieval England, the term gingerbread simply meant ‘preserved ginger’ and wasn’t applied to the desserts we are familiar with until the 15th century. The term is now broadly used to describe any type of sweet treat that combines ginger with honey, treacle or molasses.”      The History of Gingerbread

and who still remembers from your childhood:  Run, run as fast as you can. You can’t catch me I’m The Gingerbread Man :  The Legend of The Gingerbread Man   

This again brings Queen Elizabeth into the legend—some one I had not anticipated to be involved when I started this.

But try your own:

Gingerbread House Recipe

Gingerbread Men Cookie

101 things to do in London at Christmas

Top Christmas Songs 🎄 Classic Christmas Hits 🎅 Christmas Music Playlist

How well do you know London?   Take These

Outlander’ Christmas: Where to Watch Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe’s Merry Holiday Movies

Top Christmas Songs Radio 🎅🏼 Christmas Music 2020 🎄 Best Christmas Songs Playlist

Why Stockings

According to the Smithsonian:  Stockings have been an essential part of the Christmas tradition for centuries (except, briefly, in the mid-1800s, when the New York Times wrote that Christmas trees almost completely supplanted them as the tradition of choice).

And what we put in them have changed  According to Country Living

but in the past, stocking stuffers were more like candies, nuts, and fresh oranges, all of which were considered to be a real treat at the time.

The holiday tradition may have started during the Great Depression, a time when many families couldn’t afford to buy holidays presents and gifted these sweet and hard-to-come-by fruits instead, according to the Kitchn. Waking up on Christmas morning and finding a fresh orange in your stocking was considered a luxury.

I have not kids but I put things like those little liquor bottles, snacks, candy and the like in my roomie’s stocking….When I was little oranges were included in stockings and candy canes and the like but my folk had 3 kids and not a big income so they did the best they could with the small things.

Travel Through Time To Learn The Fascinating History Of Christmas Stockings

Christmas Wreaths Are a Classic Holiday Decoration With a Surprisingly Deep History

How Santa got his reindeer

Who Invented Candy Canes?

The Beach Boys – Little Saint Nick

The most popular candy in my birth place:

West Va is:  Peppermint Bark (2nd Pez)

Where I spent most of my growing up time:

Michigan:  Reindeer Corn (2nd Reese Cup Minis

on to where I stayed to do some education

Illinois:  Reese Cup Minis (2nd M&M’s)

and now

Florida:  Snickers (2nd Skittles and 3rd M&M’s)

Go here to check out your state:

The Most Popular Christmas Candy in Each State

What’s Open in Greater Philadelphia for the Holidays 2020

22 Virtual Christmas Party Ideas in 2020 (Holidays)

start planning for next year—just in case (HEAVEN FORBID)

Howell’s FULL Virtual Christmas Concert 2020: A Celebration of Christmas

An Alaskan Christmas Choir Goes Virtual | NBC News

Casting Crowns – I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day Live

Did you know there are 12 religious holidays in December?

Christians Celebrate

Dec. 6:  St. Nicholas Day--you might know him better as Santa Claus

December 16th:  Palisades Nanidenes  

Primarily a Hispanic Christian holiday that commemorates Mary and Joseph trip to Bethlehem.

25th:  Christmas–celebrating Christ’s birth.

28th:  Holy Innocent’s Day–Honoring the children killed by King Herod in his effort to kill the Christ child.

31st:  Watch Night–thanking God for their safety this year.

In Addition Catholics celebrate

8th:  Immaculate Conception  Day is a celebration of Mary, Jesus’ mother

12th:  Feast Day of our Lady of Guadalupe  primarily celebrated in Mexican and by some Mexicans in the US–celebrates. the Saint’s appearance in Mexico City.

Buddists

8th:  Bodhi Day—celebrates the historical Buddha’s decision to set under the Bodhi tree until he reached spiritual enlightenment.  It is compared to the Christian’s celebration of Christmas.

Jews

10 – 18:  Hanukkah—Festival of Light which celebration the Maccabean revolt in Egypt.

Wiccan/Pagan

21st:  Solstice, earth is farthest from the sun—the rebirth of the sun and return to the light

Zoroastrian

26th:  Zarathosht Diso (Death of Prophet Zarathustra) Zarathustra who founde this sect, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions.

Hillsong – Gloria (Angels we have heard on high) 

The Most Beautiful Virtual Christmas Light Displays In The U.S.

Virtual Christmas Light Tour! — The Western USA

NEW WALKING TOUR VIDEO: ‘2020 CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ON OXFORD STREET, LONDON’

Have a happy holiday—–The Diva and her dragon

s

Christmas 2020 Covid rules: What restrictions mean for bubbles, pubs and tiers

Coronavirus: How Europeans are preparing for Christmas and New Year

The Classic, the Quirky, and the Absolute Most Festive Christmas Trees Around the World

How many of you out there, like me, have a Christmas Tree setting about your home?  Is it real or artificial—-is it a pine//evergreen or perhaps something somewhat (or more) a bit off the traditional path—-I love that beer commercial where they light up that tall palm tree and while living in Florida i have had the trees to deck up, I have never done one like the one for the beer.  Is it fresh cut  or maybe potted so you can plant it to insure the survival of the species?

Oh and  how about the skirt about the bottom—mine was made by my mum and that along with alot  of ornaments and other items she made for me for  the year she was injured and had to hang around the house with nothing to do. she made all manner of thing for my holiday—the brother and sister not being so big on the decorations and the like that for mean mean Christmas at it’s best

Oh and I almost forgot the best part—are there presents under it?  My family always stacked them under it to drive young children mad—-and heaven help the child who was caught just shaking one—heaven forbid trying to pry some edges back on the paper wrapping to try to get a glimpse that might tell them what the paper and ribbons obscure.    But what I’m really saying I guess is that Christmas isn’t much of a holiday with out a tree—it’s just not Christmas.

30+ INNOVATIVE CHRISTMAS TREE IDEAS YOU NEED TO SEE TO BELIEVE

Christmas on the Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard

Fir trees are a genus of the evergreen coniferous trees and are also a popular choice for the holiday season. The most popular fir trees used for Christmas include the noble fir, fraser fir and balsam fir.

Mariah Carey – All I Want for Christmas Is You (Make My Wish Come True Edition)

Why is Christmas Day on the 25th December?

• The first Christmas tree retail lot in the United States was started in 1851 in New York by Mark Carr.

YOU WON’T BELIEVE THESE 9 AWESOMELY WEIRD CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS ARE REAL

German Christmas tree – Tannenbaum

But the tree traditions that we have in much of the US as well as the UK seem to have come from Germany and long after Christ’s death and the  split with England.  There were histories of trees being originally hung with apples and being related to the Garden of Eden.  That’s just one of the ones I remember from my reading.

And depending on the area and the region there were all manner of how to present and decorate these evergreen trees and all manner of traditions as well, which eventually by the 16th century had evolved into what we today would call (kinda) a Christmas Tree. or at least closer to getting there.  These German ever greens really  became significant when a German Prince named Albert married a young English monarch named Victoria in the early 1800s and in making Albert happy, she introduce the tree to the British way of Christ and the rest is history.

Now you may be saying—hey we weren’t part of that kingdom any more why did we pick it up and I could say—hey look how we bought into all those British Groups in the 60’s but in all honesty—-we actually got the trees at least in some areas and with a general eventual spread from the Germans as well, but before the Brits did, when some Germans who settled in one (or more?) of the colonies some time in the 17th century.   Grief by the 19th century it is said to have been introduced by missionaries it had been introduced by missionaries as far afield as China and Japan.

HOW DID QUEEN VICTORIA AND PRINCE ALBERT POPULARISE CHRISTMAS?

How “family Christmas” has changed over the years

In Northern Europe the Druids decorated their temples with evergreen boughs as a symbol of everlasting life

Christmas Facts & Worksheets

But even though they became world wide the trees varied from century to century and from country to country—grief even from region of a country to the next.

For instance in Victorian England you would see trees lite with candles and swathed with strings of pop corn and they also often held toys small gifts, even pieces of cake.  In Asia at one time paper decorations of complicated designs were much favored.   Over the years ornaments progressed blown glass ornaments were once favored in both the UK and USA.  Tinsels and beads were once popular in German.

By the 1930’s artificial trees were available–these varied in popularity depending on the able to easily obtain real trees and how much they cost.

and that’s a little bit of history for you on just why and how that big green needle shedding, ornament dropping—-and much loved tradition is setting in your house and gracing your memories.  ENJOY.

Where to see dazzling Christmas lights in Chicago

dangers of not watering your Christmas tree

Thirty-four to thirty-six million Christmas trees are produced each year and 95 percent are shipped or sold directly from Christmas tree farms.

50+ Christmas Trees Decorations That Are Straight Up Magical

Holiday Traditions from Around the World

In Iceland the tradition is to decorate the tree just a day or two before Christmas, on the 23rd, or even on Christmas Eve day.

How Children Celebrate Christmas Around the World

Tampa’s Victorian Christmas Stroll 2018 – Henry B. Plant Museum

Festive feasts: A history of royal Christmas food

In 2008, the people of Bethel, Maine, made a colossal effort to top their previous record holding snowman, “Angus”, and built “Olympia” as a result. At over 122 feet tall, she still holds the world record today for the tallest snowman in the world. Made with over 13,000,000 pounds of snow, she required materials such as tires, full size trees, and wreaths for her face and buttons. Talk about a snow giant. On the other hand…

https://shop.auroragift.com/blogs/aurora/5-interesting-facts-about-snowmen

THE BEST WHISK(E)Y TO GIFT FOR CHRISTMAS

 

• Thinking About Snow Snowman

Holiday Handmade Happy Hour

There are more than 90,000 YouTube videos to teach you how to build a snowman; someone even patented instructions on the process.

Pull-Apart Crescent Christmas Tree

4 Cute Ways to Make a Snowman (Regardless of Weather)

I don’t remember when I fell in love with snowmen—I remember the Frosty song and my parents (and more often my grandparents) taking my siblings and I out into the chill to build one—I found it fun but was never really very good at it….and we often ended in in smowball fights that stop the progress on our newly—or almost—created being.

Bob Eckstein, author of The History of the Snowman, found the snowman’s earliest known depiction in an illuminated manuscript of the Book of Hours from 1380 in the Koninkijke Bibliotheek in The Hague, Netherlands—but thats

bit before my time——

I do know that I eventually collected a large number of them and would actually do Christmas villages and displays in spare cubicals at work every year and now that I’m not working I put them up all over my home as you can see by my pictures here.

Traditional Tales: Why We Build Snowmen

Arthur’s Christmas at Tower Bridge

PopSci estimates Santa Claus would have to travel an average speed of 5.083 million miles per hour based on a 24-hour cycle to hit each household on Christmas Eve. It bases this on 2.67 children per household, with 75 million households worldwide.

Christmas in the City

How to build a snowman

A Chubby Little Snowman

by Anonymous

A chubby little snowman
Had a carrot nose;
Along came a rabbit
And what do you suppose?
That hungry little bunny,
Looking for his lunch,
ATE the snowman’s carrot nose . . .
Nibble, nibble, CRUNCH!

Once there was a snowman
Who stood outside the door
Thought he’d like to come inside
And run around the floor;
Thought he’d like to warm himself
By the firelight red
Thought he’d like to climb up
on that big white bed
So he called the North Wind,
“Help me now I pray.
I’m completely frozen,
Standing here all day.”
So the North Wind came along
And blew him in the door,
And now there’s nothing left of him
But a puddle on the floor!

How We Celebrate Christmas in India

Most historians actually think that Jesus was born in the spring. And his birthday itself didn’t become the official holiday until the third century.

Celebrating Christmas 2020 in Israel? Here’s EVERYTHING you need to know…

Christmas Snowman Face Snowflake Plaid Drawstring Hoodie

Why does Ukraine celebrate Christmas on January 7, not December 25?

There’s no man like a snowman.

There’s no time…Like snow time.

10 Bizarre Christmas Decorations

Snowman Cookies

I love my snowmen cute and fake so they’re not cold—-which where I live would be hard to maintain to say the least.

Of course there are evil snowmen—or at least scary ones—like the Abomidable one who’s kinda like a Big Foot with added snow.

There are all kinds of snowmen pranks —-but I like my snowmen cute,  not confrontational , angry and/or bent.

Easy Christmas Tree Cookie Bars

The Yeti, once better known as the Abominable Snowman, is a mysterious bipedal creature said to live in the mountains of Asia. It sometimes leaves tracks in snow, but is also said to dwell below the Himalayan snow line. Despite dozens of expeditions into the remote mountain regions of Russia, China and Nepal, the existence of the Yeti remains unproven.

My Christmas Love

Winter’s Effigies: The Deviant History of the Snowman

The snowman’s place in the traditional Christmas canon of jolly holiday diversions — along with ice-skating and horse-drawn sleighs — gained a higher status in the early Victorian era, when Prince Albert thrust his penchant for German holiday fun onto England. Santa Claus and the snowman became ubiquitous icons who soared hand-in-hand o’er the land of commodified Christmas kitsch.

Atlas Obscora

The Tradition of Advent

Snowmen were probably first made by people to scare away evil winter spirits. But now they are just a good excuse to have lots of fun in the snow!

99 Funny things kids want for Christmas

Snowmen at Christmas

It was the beginning of the greatest Christmas ever. Little food. No presents. But there was a snowman in their basement.

Christmas Legends, Tales And Traditions

Texas family told to take down snowman because too early for Christmas decorations

Snowmen need not be of snow anymore, in this modern world where little or anything , or anyone, is really what they appear to be,  My house has stero-foam ones of vaious sizes and a felt one which is shapped like a Christmas stocking but with hat, carrot, even a scarf around it,  just before the foot shape begins.  I love th blow up ones that you put out in the yard and even the plush ons that are more toy than decorations.

Maybe it was the growing up with the Frosty The Snowman song that hooked me even when I was supposedly too old for such things—-I have continued to be devoted to and enchanted by snowmen and women —-even kids, dogs, cats and what ever fits the genre and is made of snow (or at least its repica is).

I understand that they probably came into the Christmas Holidays thru Queen Vistoria and her devotion to her Germanic husband Prince Albert who’s celebrations included these snowy inanimate creatures.   But even though I love England I do not in any way associate my snowmen with their celebration—maybe I’ll never know—it’s just another crazy layer of my crazy brain.

25 Easy Snowman Crafts for Kids and Adults 

Top 10 places to spend Christmas in the UK

Unless you’re extremely unlucky, Christmas in Sweden should involve at least some snow. The white stuff is practically guaranteed if you’re heading anywhere in the northern half of the country,

Here Are The Top 10 Christmas Towns In Wisconsin

5 Clever Sneezy the Snowman Kindergarten Activities

see below:

5 Clever Sneezy the Snowman Kindergarten Activities

Weird and Wonderful Christmas Food Traditions From Around the World

Whoever said “All is Calm” has never been to our house around Christmas. Some might say we’re not very bright, either.

Christmas Legends

The main pic and all of these various odds and ends ones are from the decor for the holiday in my house.  I hope you enjoy them.

Old-Fashioned Hard Christmas Candy: Remember the Good Old Days?

61 Best Family Christmas Movies to Watch with Your Kids This Holiday Season

Christmas drinks & cocktail recipes

this is not one of mine…..

5 Holiday Safety Tips for Pets