It's the end of the year again, the time when many people sit down and reflect on the events of the last year. Of course, some things were good and some were bad, and you have probably drawn your own conclusion as to whe ...

Category: Holidays and Observances

If you've been in the church for a long time, you know that the Christmas season is also called Advent, but you may not truly understand why it's called that. It's important to know the history of Advent to be able to e ...

Category: Holidays and Observances Religion

The holiday shopping season officially begins on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. Most stores begin getting ready for the influx of customers long before that weekend. Black Friday turns into Small Business Satu ...

Category: Holidays and Observances

At sundown on December 2, Hanukkah begins. It’s the Jewish winter holiday celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. According to tradition, pure olive oil was required for the menorah in the T ...

Category: Holidays and Observances Religion Judaism

There’s no shortage of things to do on Thanksgiving. If you’re like a lot of families, mom or dad is in the kitchen cooking dinner while the kids play on their cell phones or watch TV in another room. Thanksg ...

Category: Holidays and Observances

If you're not into football and not ready for Christmas movie favorites, it might be hard to find something for your Thanksgiving party. We've put together a list of fun Thanksgiving classics you can find on DVD or stre ...

Category: Holidays and Observances

Since 1990, Americans have recognized November as Native American Heritage Month. It was President George H. W. Bush that issued the first proclamation, but even without a presidential declaration, it’s important t ...

Category: Holidays and Observances

As the holidays approach, you’re probably gearing up for making special meals and dishes for events. Let’s take a look at some of the church’s saints that protect cooks, bakers, housewives and more. Sa ...

Category: Holidays and Observances Religion

In 1998, Pamela Gail Johnson founded the Secret Society of Happy People. She wanted a safe place for people to share happy news. Two years later, the society made August “Happiness Happens Month.” Why is it s ...

Category: Health and Wellness Holidays and Observances

Mardi Gras, Carnival, Shrove Tuesday or Fat Tuesday: whatever you call it, it’s one of the biggest parties of the year. Practically every culture has some kind of celebration before Lent. And while it seems as if t ...

Category: Holidays and Observances