I know it's difficult to believe, but there are some events just around the corner which will be demanding your attention!
Firstly, for those of Scottish origin or who are interested in Scotland, Burn's Day is 25th January. That's the celebration of the birth of Robert Burns, when many Scots toast his memory and eat haggis, neeps and tatties! Delicious. If you've never been to one, a traditional Burns Supper is a great evening out.
Then, in just a few more days, it's Valentine's Day! I came across this article about Valentine's - and thought you might like to read it.
History and Meaning of Valentine's Gifts by Natalie Aranda
"Love from your Valentine", this was the message that was once passed by a very brave Christian martyr who gave his life for love. And he didn't give it for his own love but for other's love. He took everyone's pain and gave everyone the love of their life. This was the great sacrifice that a man made. His name was Saint Valentine.
History
The history takes us back to the Roman period when King Claudius ruled. Earlier it is said that Valentines Day was started in Rome. The day was celebrated as a festival to honor the queen of Roman gods. She is recognized as the goddess of the female sex and matrimony. The next day was celebrated as the Lupercalia Feasts. On the eve of this festival only the youth were allowed to be together and rest of the time they were strictly kept separate. This was the theory that gives the origin of Valentines Day.
Another theory that gives the history of Valentines Day is the sacrifices that a Christian martyr named Valentine made for love. There was a requirement of a huge army, which the emperor of Rome was unable to make. It was only because there were many people who didn't want to involve themselves in wars and go away from their families. So there was a great problem that Claudius the cruel was facing. So he came up with a very nice idea that sufficed his needs. He stopped people from entering into marriages. For this he passed a law also. But there were people who were against this law and also didn't want to follow. So a priest named Valentine conducted marriages secretly. This laid down the foundation of Saint Valentine's day which is now celebrated worldwide. This day is celebrated as this brave martyr died on this day.
Valentines gifts
Earlier Valentines Day was celebrated by exchanging love notes and expressions. People used to send anonymous letters and cards to their loved ones. But nowadays Valentine's Day gifts have dominated the scene. However, giving gifts doesn't mean that love has turned materialistic. But it in fact expresses your love and your emotions.
Your love is always true but is a waste if it is not expressed. And there are many gifts that are available in the stores that are specially designed for this occasion only. Valentine's gifts for boyfriend or for girlfriend are available onlne or in local stores. Valentine's Day not only expresses your love and your emotions but will also win the heart of your sweetheart.
If you decide that Valentine's day this year is the appropriate time to get engaged to your sweetheart, you might consider ordering this beautiful Celtic engagement ring for her. It is 18ct gold, a solitaire diamond - and the shoulders of the ring feature the beautiful Celtic Trinity knot for everlasting love.
This ring can be purchased from MacGillivray's Scottish Gifts
If you do become engaged on Valentine's Day, we wish you every happiness together.
M
