All About Christmas

Christmas is the annual Christian festival celebrating Christ’s birth, held on December 25 in the Western Church. The traditional date of December 25 goes back as far as A.D. 273. Two pagan festivals honoring the sun were also celebrated on that day and it is possible that December 25 was chosen to counteract the influence of paganism. To this day some people feel uncomfortable with Christmas because they think it is somehow tainted by the pagan festivals held on that day. Here are the most asked questions about Christmas.

Are Christmas Trees Poisonous To Dogs

A live tree can be especially hazardous. Dogs and cats like to chew on the limbs, and the fir tree oils can be irritating to the mouth tissue, causing such symptoms as drooling and vomiting. Also, if your pet is chewing on the branches, there is a good chance he is also swallowing some of the needles.

Are Christmas trees pine trees?

Traditionally, the pagans and Christians used the fig tree during the celebration of winter festivals. The species of fir trees considered best for Christmas purposes include Nordmann Fir, Noble Fir, Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, Spanish Fir, and Balsam Fir. These types of fir trees are suitable since they have aromatic foliage. They also do not shed many of their needles when they get dry. The Balsam Fir is short, but has dense branches which enable people to decorate it for Christmas. The Spanish Fir is best fit for Christmas when it is still young and has a conical shape. As it matures, it loses its conical shape. Additionally, the Douglas Fir has fine needles and a lovely scent. It can also hold many ornaments and strands of lights. Many years ago, the Germans called the fir trees “Paradise trees.” They hung apples on them to have the picture of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Today, Christians use the tree as a symbolism of the eternal life they await.

Can Christmas Trees Come Back To Life

Reviving a Christmas tree is as simple as giving it more water. The more water you give to the tree, the longer it will last, just like cut flowers. It is important to ensure that the tree has enough water and is protected from extreme heat to prevent the needles from drying out. Do not use chemicals or sprays to try and revive the tree — these do nothing to improve the water retention of the tree and might actually prevent the tree from getting as much water as it needs.

How Christmas Started

The Christmas we know today took shape in Victorian times, when the rowdier celebrations of earlier periods were toned down into a quieter family-focused festival. Queen Victoria and her beloved Albert, with their nine children, played a big part in these changes. The Christmas trees Albert popularised from his native Germany in 1840 rapidly caught on, as did decking them with lights and presents, by now given on Christmas Day itself. Victorian children’s presents were usually quite modest, such as sweets, nuts or oranges, although wealthier kids might hope for a gift echoing the latest technology, such as a toy train. ‘Christmas Box’ tips to servants and tradesmen were left until 26 December, hence called ‘Boxing Day’. 

When Christmas Comes Around Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Winter days, turn to grey, put the headlights on
Snow and rain, wiped away, I can’t keep my eyes on the road
When I’m driving home
I got tears, running down, burning in my eyes and
You and I, heated by the flicker of a lighter glow
And I let it go

[Pre-Chorus]
But I just got here
I know it’s been a while darling, dear
There’s been a change in the time of year
When the frost bites the snow
And Christmas comes around

[Chorus]
For the down-and-outs
And broken lay-abouts
What will they do now?
When Christmas comes around
We were so in love
Till I messed it up
But who will love me now?
When Christmas comes around

[Verse 2]
Family asking me, why I let you go
Telling me, its a mistake
I’m telling them that I know
But I can’t call you
You’re in a space, better place
Loving on a new man
I don’t blame you at all
You did all that you can, I know
[Pre-Chorus]
But I just got here
I know it’s been a while darling, dear
There’s been a change in the time of year
When the frost bites the snow
And Christmas comes around

[Chorus]
For the down and outs
And broken lay-abouts
What will they do now?
When Christmas comes around
We were so in love
Till I messed it up
But who will love me now?
When Christmas comes around

[Bridge]
And I’m sick of all the songs
The Christmas sing-alongs
The merry and the cheer
‘Cause I don’t feel like that this year
All the bells are out of sync
And my soul is on the brink
So I’ll have myself a drink, and sing
When Christmas comes around
[Chorus + Outro]
For the down-and-outs
And broken lay-abouts
What will they do now?
When Christmas comes around
We were so in love
Till I messed it up
But who will love me now?
When Christmas comes around

Who will love me now?
When Christmas comes around