Happy Valentine's Day

Valentines Day is celebrated all over the world on the 14th of February. In
Finland this celebration arrived rather late, and was officially listed in the
almanac in 1987. In Finland Valentines Day is called "Ystävänpäivä", which means
"Friend's Day". Unlike many other countries where Valentines Day is mainly a day
of "Romance", in Finland it is also the day when close friends send cards and
gifts to each other, although it is a popular day to get married and engaged on.
Even though Valentines Day came to Finland from the United States, its
roots are visible in European folklore and in Catholic legends. The tradition of
celebrating St. Valentines Day on 14th of February, dates back to ancient Rome,
when Romans were celebrating Juno, the protector of matrimony and maternity.
The name Valentine comes from saint Valentinus, the martyr, who's
commemorative day has been celebrated on 14th of February, since the 350's.
According to legend, Valentinus was conducting marriage ceremonies for soldiers,
who were not allowed to get married, and was therefore acting against the orders
of the military commanders. As a result Valentinus was arrested, and to show
their gratitude, wives of the soldiers sent gifts, cards and flowers to
Valentinus. He was executed on the 14th of February (Valentine's Day).
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However, I am still Canadian and am looking forward to a nice big dinner, some treats for my peeps, strawberries and whipped cream for dessert, and some snuggles.