Today is the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice, which, along with the summer solstice and the two equinoxes, mark the quarter points of the Earth’s journey around the sun. Ancient people recognized these and celebrated them. Many of their traditions can be found in the Christian celebration of Yule. This is a […]
What is your first thought when you hear the Boston Tea Party? Well, yes, it took place in Boston. But many believe this started the American Revolution. And while it did trigger the uprising, trouble had been brewing long before the tea was dumped into the harbor. And Saturday, December 16th, is the 250th anniversary
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Learning about their culture and customs is one of the best parts of living in another country. As an American, I grew up with Santa Claus, referred to as Jolly Old Saint Nick. He is always portrayed as jovial and kind, bringing gifts to children who behave throughout the year. In Germany, they celebrate Saint
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Dave and I spent Thanksgiving weekend in the North Carolina mountains. First, we rode a steam train along the Tuckasegee River. On Saturday, we hiked up to Mingo Falls and then took a leisurely three-mile stroll along the Oconaluftee River in Cherokee. It seemed appropriate to wind up Native American Heritage Month in a native
On the path of the Cherokee Read More »