Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day as we know it, is an annual holiday celebrated on February 14. Each year on February 14th, many people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special “valentine.”  But do we know the history behind it. It originated as a Western Christian liturgical feast day honoring one or more early saints named Valentinus, and is recognized as a significant cultural and commercial celebration in many regions around the world. Let’s learn some interesting facts now. Valentine’s day is one of america’s biggest holidays. In Victorian times it was considered bad luck to sign a Valentine’s Day card. Many believe the X symbol became synonymous with the kiss in medieval times. People who couldn't write their names signed in front of a witness with an X. The X was then kissed to show their sincerity. In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who would be their Valentine. They would wear this name pinned onto their sleeves for one week for everyone to see. This was the origin of the expression "to wear your heart on your sleeve." In 1537, England's King Henry VII officially declared Feb. 14 the holiday of St. Valentine's Day. Richard Cadbury produced the first box of chocolates for Valentine's Day in the late 1800s. Over 1 billion worth of chocolate is purchased for Valentine’s day in the U.S.

A teacher is most likely to get more cards, chocolates, candies than a student, friend, wife, husband, mom, or dad. Valentine’s day isn’t just to be celebrated with your boyfriend or girlfriend. It can be celebrated with friends and family. How do you celebrate your valentines day?