No one knows the real story behind Saint Valentine (at least three different saints named Valentine are recognized by the Roman Catholic church), but one legend claims that he secretly married young couples against the orders of an emperor who had banned marriage because he believed single men made better soldiers.
Today's tradition of trading love notes on February 14 became popular in England in the 17th century. Here's a little trivia:
- The first box of chocolates was introduced by Richard Cadbury in 1868.
- The oldest known valentine card dates back to the 1400s. Charles, duke of Orleans, sent it to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London.
- So-called vinegar valentines, which carried insults like "Ugly, Fat, and Forty," were popular in the 19th century. They were sent anonymously on the 14th.
- "Be Mine," one of the original messages on Necco's Sweethearts candies when they debuted, still appears every year. Recent additions? "IM Me" and "Go Girl."
Side note: 'ugly, fat and forty'?????? since when is forty an insult??? these days it's the NEW twenties!!
Enough trivia, now we know about the history I want to go to the good stuff...the treats!! Since Dirk is leaving his 3 girls on Valentine's day for 9 days to Lichtenstein we have the kingdom to ourselves. Me and the girls will be making some of these goodies below...well not the Japanese crochet cupcake, but I just thought that was the cutest thing ;-)
These cookies look easy enough to handle for two 6-years old and a mom who isn't that much into baking. Recipe here.
Cute, cute, cute.... but no way I am going to make this!
Source: Flickr - no recipe available :-(
Beautiful and so sweet looking with the red and pink sprinkles.. source here.
Lip smackers gelatin kisses, Whoopie pies, Meringue kisses, Healthy heart sweet tarts, Love bites and Cupid cake. Source from one of my favorite blogs about entertaining: hostess with the mostess!
I haven't made my mind up which de-lish treat we will make, but I am sure we will have some fun this Valentine weekend!
What about you? Are you making, getting or giving something fun, sweet, de-lish, or... (I haven't used my favorite sentence in a loooong time...) unique, groovy, sassy, swanky, hip, bright, bold & funky stuff that gives you the wiggles & giggles!
Drop me a line, or show me what you are up to for Valentine's day, I am always in to see something new ;-) Inspiration for next year!!
Sweet love,
Mireille
1 comment:
Thanks for the link! I'd forgotten that photo...now I want to go bake cupcakes again!
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