Tag Archives: holiday

The Symbols of Easter

29 Thursday Mar 2018

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If you’ve stepped into a retail store sometime in the past few weeks, you know thatJoyful Easter rabbits, pastel-colored boxes and candy of all shapes and sizes have recently taken up residence in the seasonal aisle. We know that Easter is traditionally known as a religious holiday, have you ever wondered where these symbols got their origin?

We did, too, and after a bit of research, we think we found the answers!

Believe it or not, these characters are said to pre-date Christianity. The origin of the word, “Easter”’ stems from Eostre, the Germanic goddess of spring. Each year, on or around the 21st of March, the Celtic people would celebrate Ostara. Although it sounds like a holiday, it was seen as an opportunity to be in tune with the changing of the seasons.

Because the Spring Equinox is known as a time of rebirth, it has strong ties to fertility and sowing seeds. The symbol of the rabbit first appeared during medieval times in Europe. Hares had been known to be nocturnal most of the year, but in March when the mating season began, bunnies could be seen everywhere. In no time at all, the hare became known as a major symbol of fertility.

As for chocolate and candy, you will not be surprised to learn that we could find evidence of existence during the original Celtic celebrations. We can likely assume the abundance of candy can be rooted back to Catholic traditions. Christians typically sacrifice items they enjoy during the Lenten season such as rich food items like meat, soda or candy. On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the end of Lent by indulging in sweets.

There you have it – some of the best-known origins of Easter. What is your favorite symbol of Easter/Spring Equinox?

It indeed is a remarkable time of the year. After a long winter season, it’s amazing to see our beautiful land coming back to life. We hope you have a chance to take a moment to appreciate spring’s arrival as you celebrate with your family this weekend.

Happy Easter from Lions Pride!

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Worldwide Traditions of Epiphany

04 Thursday Jan 2018

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Here we are again, the first week of a brand new year. It’s so hard to believe ChristmasGalette des Rois and New Year’s are already behind us. After much planning and preparation, the holiday season is almost over. Yes, you read that line correctly as we have one more holiday to get through before we say goodbye to the season.

Epiphany, or the Feast of the Three Kings, is observed 12 days after Christmas. The celebration is for Christians to remember the three wise men who visited Jesus, and for churches to remember when Jesus was baptized.

Epiphany means ‘revelation’ – appropriate since both of these occasions reveal that Jesus was an important figure in history. The holiday is primarily observed by Catholics and Orthodox Christians, but is celebrated all around the world:

  • In Spain, the Festival of the Three Kings is when children receive presents from their parents.
  • In France, observers might eat a flat, almond cake called “Galette des Rois.” Each cake is baked with a toy crown inside and a gold paper crown placed in the center.
  • Mexico has a celebration similar to that of France, but their cake is called “Rosca de Reyes.” In this special cake, a small figure of baby Jesus is hidden; whoever finds the figure in their cake is the ‘Godparent’ of Jesus for that year.
  • In Austria, some people create a special chalk sign as a reminder of the wise men. The inscription of the sign is made by splitting the year into two and writing the initials of the wise men (Casper, Melchior and Balthazar.) This year’s sign would read 20*C*M*B*18. This tradition is believed to protect the household for the next year.
  • In Belgium, children take part in activity similar to that of US trick-or-treating. Kids sometimes dress up as wise men and go door-to-door singing songs. In exchange for music, residents give the children money or candy.
  • In Ireland, Epiphany can be known as “Nollaig na mBean” or Women’s Christmas. On this day, women would take the day off, and men would tend to the housework and cooking. (We like the sound of this one!)

Click here to see more worldwide traditions from WhyChristmas.com.

For many of us who don’t celebrate the holiday, Epiphany is seen as the perfect day to take down decorations and settle back into the usual routine.

From all of us at Lions Pride, we hope you had an enjoyable, restful holiday season.

Celebrate the Season of Giving with St. Nick

07 Thursday Dec 2017

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While we may not have any white, fluffy snow on the ground (as ofStockings Were Hung writing), there is no question that the holiday season has arrived. Yesterday was the celebration of St. Nicholas. Although the holiday is a popular one in Europe, the day isn’t widely celebrated here in the United States, and we think it’s time to change that!

The story of St. Nick goes back to 4th century Greece. Nicholas of Myra officiated as a bishop after dedicating his life to giving to others. Sadly, his parents died in an epidemic when he was young. With his extensive inheritance, Nicholas decided to use his wealth to help the less fortunate. His signature act was leaving gold coins in people’s shoes around the city. Today, children leave out stockings or shoes on the eve of St. Nicholas and awake to find them filled with small gifts and trinkets. Of course, there is always the possibility that those who have been naughty will find nothing more than a lump of coal.

We may have missed the official holiday, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate the true meaning behind the season – focusing on giving more than receiving. Sometime in December, consider surprising your loved one by filling his or her stocking with fun, little gifts. There are endless possibilities for stocking stuffers – candy, jewelry, small toys, soap, notebooks, key chains and more. You can also include other intangible gifts such as a donation to their favorite charity in their honor.

By choosing to make a gift to Lions Pride, you can help us work to continue improving the lives of people all around Wisconsin. Your donation can help preserve, protect and provide for Lions Camp and all other WLF statewide projects – including eyeglass recycling, adult and children’s vision screening, diabetes education and more. If there is a project that is especially important to you or your loved one, simply designate the gift, and you can rest assured knowing that you’re helping the cause. Print the certificate and add it a stocking for a powerful gift that also gives back.

Together, we can all embody the spirit of St. Nicholas by remembering to include compassion and charity in our daily lives. After all, isn’t that the reason behind the season?

Happy Holidays from Lions Pride!

 

Celebrate Veterans Day with Gratitude

09 Thursday Nov 2017

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“Honoring the sacrifices many have made for our country in the name of freedom is theWaving Flag very foundation of Veterans Day.” –Charles B. Rangel

This Saturday, we’ll have the opportunity to our nation’s living heroes in the 80th official Veterans Day. Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was created on November 11, 1919, on the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance and became a national holiday in 1938.

Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, who served on any branch of the US military during peacetime or war, living or dead, but especially giving thanks to all living veterans. The US Census Bureau estimates that there are currently over 21 million living veterans in the United States.

You’ve likely already seen lots of businesses celebrating the holiday with sales and specials, but may wonder the best way to celebrate the occasion. Here at Lions Pride, we feel the best way to recognize the holiday is with gratitude. Here are a few ideas on you could thank a veteran over the weekend:

  • Write a letter

Everyone loves mail! Well, maybe not direct mail, but we’d be willing to bet you greeted your last handwritten letter with a smile. This Veterans Day, thank a vet in the form of a letter. Operation Gratitude is on a mission to show our nation’s heroes how much we care about them. And nothing says more that more than a handwritten note that can be saved forever. Each year, the organization sends care packages and letters to veterans all over the county. Find out how you can start your first letter.

  • Visit a veterans nursing home

We think quite possibly the best way to thank someone is in person! Consider contacting your local veterans nursing home to see if there are any residents who may be longing for company. After all who doesn’t love a friendly visit?

  • Invite a veteran to join Lions

You can show your appreciation as a Lion by inviting a veteran to serve with your club and reconnect with their community. In July 2013, Lions Club International introduced the Involve a Veteran Program. From now until June 30, 2018, qualifying veterans will receive waived entrance and chartered fees when they join a Lions Club. Eligible veterans include all branches of the US military – Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel who are retired or honorably discharged. The National Guard and Reserve personnel who were called to active duty for other training are also eligible. Learn more about the program.

These are only three of countless ways to thank a veteran for their sacrifice. How do you plan to celebrate Veterans Day?

To all of the men and women in uniform, past, present and future, God bless you and the Lions Pride Staff & Board want to thank you for your service.

Happy Veterans Day!

Sweetest Day – Then and Now

19 Thursday Oct 2017

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Do you ever feel like some holidays were created merely to benefit the greeting card Sweetest Day Chocolateindustry? Yes, we’re talking to you, Valentine’s Day, Boss’s Day and Grandparents Day. Well, we’re here to tell you that the next holiday – Sweetest Day on Saturday, October 21, 2017 – may fall into the same category, but it truly has a delightful message.

The holiday began back in early 20th Century as Candy Day. According to Hallmark, legends say the day was established by Herbert Birch Kingston, a candy store employee who wanted to spread happiness to people who were feeling forgotten. He recruited a team, went out and began distributing candy to orphans, shut-ins and others to show them that some cared.

As time went on, celebrities started joining in on the act, and the holiday broadened to include loved ones, coworkers and friends. Today, observance of Sweetest Day is still the most popular in the Midwest due to its origination.

How should you observe the upcoming holiday? Well, you could surprise your sweetheart with a box of their favorite candy, but there other “healthier” ways to celebrate:

  1. Write a heartfelt letter (or email)

In the last decade or so, it seems that we have lost the art of letter writing. Show someone you care by crafting a heartfelt letter. Of course, you could always send an email if you’re looking for a quicker way to display your affection; but we can guarantee that a handwritten letter is bound to put a smile on your recipient’s face.

  1. Send flowers

Did you know that aside from being pretty, fresh cut flowers and plants have numerous health benefits? Flowers have the ability to give someone an instant mood boost and aid in both memory and concentration. If your loved one has been feeling stressed at work, you can provide them support with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

  1. Donate in their honor

As you likely already know, nonprofit organizations thrive with the support of their loyal donors. After all, funds are the lifeblood of any nonprofit as it helps them spread their message and make a difference in their communities. When celebrating Sweetest Day, consider donating to your recipient’s favorite organization in their name. When you make a honorarium/memorial donation to Lions Pride, we’re happy to mail an acknowledgement card to your loved one or their family. Together, you and your sweetheart can create a legacy that will last for future generations at the Wisconsin Lions Camp and in other WLF projects.

While the holiday may have begun with candy and sweets in mind, it has truly become a day to do small things with great love. Remember, it’s the thought that counts! How do you plan to celebrate?

Happy Sweetest Day from Lions Pride!

Honor Flight to Washington DC

25 Thursday May 2017

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Memorial Day may only Memorial Day Cemetarybe four days away, but a group of our state’s heroes has gotten a head start on the celebration.

Ninety Wisconsin veterans received the opportunity to fly to Washington DC on Sunday, May 19, with the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight. This flight was the second of three scheduled for the spring of 2017.

The group left Mitchell Airport early at 7 am to fill in a full day of site seeing. Upon arrival, our veterans visited the WWII Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Iwo Jima/Marine Corps Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Wall. The group also got to witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The heroes arrived back in Milwaukee at 9 pm that evening and were graciously welcomed home by family, friends and community members.

Although many of us may celebrate the holiday with a classic barbecue with loved ones, it’s important to remember the true meaning of the holiday.

As reminded by the SSHF, “Memorial Day isn’t a ‘thank you for your service day’ for our living veterans or active duty military. It’s a day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and were denied the privilege of growing old.” Read the entire excerpt here.

It’s so easy to lose sight of the origin of Memorial Day, appreciating those who sacrificed themselves for our country and freedom. Consider spending some time on Monday, to visit a cemetery and saying “thank you” to our nation’s greatest heroes.

The Lions Pride Office will be closed on Monday, May 29 in observance of the holiday. We’d like to wish you and your family a safe and happy Memorial Day!

3 Ways to Express Your Gratitude This Mother’s Day

11 Thursday May 2017

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We hope that we’re not the first ones to Happy Mothers Daytell you that Mother’s Day is only 48 hours away. While this may seem to be another obvious greeting card holiday, don’t fall for the deception! Mother’s Day is a holiday that honors motherhood and takes many forms all over the globe. In America form of Mother’s Day was created in 1908 by Anna Jarvis, and became an official US holiday in 1914. (She later tried to denounce the commercialization of the holiday and spent much of her lifetime trying to remove the holiday from the calendar, but that’s a story for another day!)

There’s no question in our minds that parenthood, and motherhood, in particular, is one of the most challenging jobs that comes with its own share of sacrifices. Mother’s Day is a wonderful holiday that gives us all an opportunity to show the moms in our lives how much they mean to us.

Often, this gratitude comes in the form of gifts, but gifts don’t necessarily need to include the typical card and flowers. This Mother’s Day, think about giving a more creative present to the moms in your life with a few ideas:

  • Giving your time: Rather than giving a physical present, say, “I love you” with the gift of your time. In this day and age, it’s easy for time to get away with us. Spend Sunday doing the activity of her choice like going to church, seeing a movie or just spending the afternoon catching up. We are confident that mothers will agree that there’s nothing better than spending precious time together.
  • Taking on her usual duties: In life, we all have responsibilities that we don’t much care for. Whether it’s scrubbing toilets, washing dishes or eliminating loads of laundry, take one or all of those duties to give her a chance to put her feet up and relax. After all, how often does that actually happen at home?
  • Giving a gift that keeps on giving: It’s very likely that Mom has a special cause that she cares about. Help that organization carry on in their mission by giving a gift in her honor. If your mom is a Lions Pride supporter, consider giving an honorarium donation to help us continue preserving, providing and protecting for the Wisconsin Lions Camp and all WLF statewide projects. Click her for a memorial/honorarium form.

Remember that the best gifts in life don’t always come packed with ribbons and bows. This Mother’s Day, say “thank you” to the most important moms in your life with a present that she won’t soon forget. How do you plan to express your gratitude?

From all of us at Lions Pride, Happy Mother’s Day!

The Origins of the Easter Bunny

13 Thursday Apr 2017

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OsterhaseIf you are familiar with the Christian religion, you know that Easter is upon us. You have likely already seen many different variations of crosses and lilies, but have you ever wondered how the bunny got included in the event?

No, you’re not mistaken, there are certainly no bunnies or eggs mentioned in the Bible, and the exact history of the Easter bunny is a bit cloudy.

Our beloved rabbit has been thought to come from Pagan traditions brought from Germany. Many sources believe that the Easter bunny first came to American in the 1700s along with German immigrants. They had a story in which the hare known as “Osterhase” or “Oschter Haws,” would deliver decorative eggs to well-behaved children who prepared him a nest. Since then, Oster has come to be known as the Easter bunny.

As we have previously mentioned, although the Easter bunny is not found in the Scriptures, you may be surprised to learn that there is a connection between the bunny and Jesus Christ. The egg delivered by the Easter bunny is a symbol of the Resurrection of Christ. CatholicCulture.org says “just as the chick breaks through the shell when it is hatched, and begins its life, so Christ comes forth living from the apparently lifeless tomb.” Who knew?

And there you have it, the best-known origins of the Easter bunny! How do you plan to celebrate the upcoming holiday?

The Lions Pride office will be closed Friday, April 14, to celebrate the occasion with our families. We’d like to wish you and yours a Happy Easter!

Is Presidents’ Day a Real Holiday?

16 Thursday Feb 2017

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presidents-dayIf you’ve recently looked at the calendar, you probably already know that we have an upcoming national holiday approaching. Presidents’ Day 2017 is next Monday, February 20. Banks and other federal organizations close for the day and every furniture store it town seems to have the best sale of the year as a way to celebrate the occasion but is it a real holiday?

The answer is yes! Although this holiday may not be as widely celebrated as others, Presidents’ Day is a true holiday. The story of the observance began in the year 1800. After President George Washington’s death, his birthday (February 22) became a day of remembrance; however, it didn’t officially become a nationally recognized holiday until 1879.

In the late 1960’s, Washington’s Birthday began to shift to Presidents’ Day. Congress proposed a law known as the Uniform Monday Holiday Act to consolidate several federal holidays into pre-determined Mondays. The proposed change was to create additional three-day weekends and reduce employee absenteeism. A provision was included in the law to combine the celebration of Washington’s Birthday with Abraham Lincoln’s, which fell on February 12. The act was passed in 1968 and took effect in 1971 under President Richard Nixon. The holiday was then changed from February 22 to the third Monday of February.

Washington and Lincoln remain two of the most nationally recognized leaders, but Presidents’ Day is now seen as a day to honor all of America’s chief executives, both past and present.

Presidents’ Day may not be as large of a celebration as other holidays such as Independence Day, but that doesn’t mean we can’t commemorate the occasion. We have a couple of ideas to get you started:

  • Enjoy fish for dinner, which George Washington’s favorite meal, according to his wife, Martha.
  • Honor The Great Emancipator by reading any of Lincoln’s well-known speeches.
  • Learn more about the founders of our great nation or a president of your own generation. It’s always a wonderful time to visit your local library.

Presidents’ Day is only a few days away, how do you plan to celebrate?

Happy Presidents’ Day from Lions Pride!

Holiday Preparation Stress Relief

15 Thursday Dec 2016

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year! holiday-dinner-prepWe’ve officially entered the middle of December, our ground is fully covered in snow, we’re slowly making our way through our shopping lists and likely have dozens of tasks that are in need to completing before the Big Day arrives. Is it just us, or could the most wonderful time of year also be replaced with the most stressful time of the year?

After doing a bit of research, it appears that we are not alone in our thinking. According to a poll conducted by the American Psychological Association, nearly a quarter of Americans feel “extreme stress” due to a lack of time, a lack of money or the pressure to give or get presents.

Fortunately, not all is lost. We don’t have to wish away the holidays, but rather take a few practical measures to minimize the stress that comes with the season:

  • Make a master list

    One of the biggest challenges of having so many items to tackle is that it is tough to keep them all straight. Make a master list where you have everything from presents to buy, goodies to bake and cards to mail.

  • Ask for help

    Often, many of the holiday tasks are assigned to one person in a household. If it just so happens, that you are that person, ask for help. You’ll get back by time by divvying up responsibilities and likely have more fun. Doesn’t enjoying a glass of eggnog while addressing envelopes with a loved one sound more delightful than completing them alone?

  • Stick with a budget

    Before shopping, determine a budget and stay committed to sticking with it. Remember, that money can’t buy happiness; it’s the thought that matters most. If you’re looking for alternatives to store bought gifts, create homemade gifts or donate to a charity in your recipient’s name, Lions Pride comes to mind.

  • Learn to say no

    Saying yes to too many obligations can leave you feeling overwhelmed, and eventually resentful. Don’t feel like you have to participate in all holiday activities; we guarantee that your loved ones will understand.

  • Take a break

    Although it may sound counterintuitive, remember the importance of rest during times of stress. Make time for yourself. Find an activity that clears your mind. Consider partaking in an activity that you can only do this time of year, like listening to Christmas music or taking a walk and admiring the lights.

We all agree that this time of year is definitely a busy one, but don’t let the stress of your To Do list stop you from enjoying the magic of the season. Remember to take a step back and truly think about the reason behind the season and enjoy every moment of the holidays. They will be here and gone before we know it!

Happy Holidays from Lions Pride.