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That time of year is finally here! A time of candy hearts, sweet sentiments, and celebration of love all kinds – from friendly to romantic. There are countless ways to celebrate this lovely occasion; whether you surprise a special someone with a Valentine’s Day gift, gather your pals for a Valentine’s Day themed party or simply mark the occasion in your own unique way, there is no one right way to celebrate.

On the days leading up to February 14, add a festive touch to your days with help from some “lovely” tunes. And of course, what could be more festive than a feel-good song that also has the word “valentine” in the title?! You can even take it to the next level by using the sheet music from your favorite Valentine’s Day song and turning it into a candle.

Read on for 16 songs with “valentine” in the title. Did we forget one of your favorites? Make sure to share it with us in the comments! Continue Reading…

What is Diwali?

Once a year in autumn, during the darkest new moon in the Hindu month Kartik, Hindu communities and temples will shine bright with millions of candles and lamps. This celebration, known as Diwali – or the festival of lights – dates all the way back to ancient times! Diwali 2019 is celebrated on October 27th and for several days after, depending on the family’s religion and traditions.

The traditional name of this holiday, Deepawali originates from the Sanskrit words deep, meaning light and avali, meaning row. Depending on the region and religion, the duration of the festival (3-5 days) as well as the history and origin of the holiday may vary. Although Diwali is mainly a family affair, Diwali is also a religious day for many Hindus. Many celebrate the holiday to bring prosperity and good health to their families.
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April may be known for its showers, but those born in the fourth month make up for the seasonal downpour with their radiant personalities. So when their special day surfaces, show the birthday boy or girl just how much they shine with a thoughtful and impressive gift idea they’ll love. Here are some fun facts about April birthdays, including information about the April birth month and flower to give you a bit of inspiration for choosing the perfect gift.

April Birthday Fun Facts

April Birth Stone: Diamond

With the brightest rays of sunshine peeking through the still-bare foliage of April, it comes as no surprise that the April birth stone is none other than the long sought-after diamond. The stone’s name is derived from the Greek word “adamus”, meaning invincible; a fitting name for one of the hardest substances found in the world. While diamonds are most commonly colorless, they can be found in shades from yellow to pink to blue, depending on the impurities of the rock.

Historically, diamonds have been used to aid in strength – from spiritual strength to physical and emotional. During ancient times, people even believed that diamonds were either tears of the gods or made of lightning bolts! Some of the earliest recorded history of the diamond dates back to around 300 BC in India, where it was valued for its reflective properties and used in talismans to ward off evil. During the Middle Ages, people would not only sleep with diamonds to strengthen their health, but would even go as far as to ingest diamonds to cure illnesses!

Shine on, you April diamond!
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Just as the last icicles of winter are melting away, the month of March comes into play, tearing down the last of remnants of the winter season and replacing it with the seedlings of spring.

The beauty of this landscape makes for the perfect background for a celebration of life and birth! Read up on March birthday fun facts and history and make this year extra special with the perfect March birthday gift.

March Birthday Fun Facts

March Birthstone: Aquamarine

Like the month itself, the March birthstone is a mixture of two opposing forces – calmly cool yet wildly bright like its name’s meaning, “water of the sea” suggests. Found in varying shades of blue, this hypnotizing stone has been a subject of awe and mysticism for centuries. Both the Romans and the Greeks believed wearing the aquamarine would help ensure a sailor’s safety across the restless seas. Additionally, they believed this stone would help protect soldiers and give them in upper hand in combat.

During the Middle Ages, the aquamarine was believed to have magical properties, such as the ability to rekindle the flame in a couple’s relationship. It became a popular material for crystal balls, which was used for fortune telling and mystical rituals such as weather manipulation.

Although a majority of the world’s aquamarine supply comes from Brazil, this stone can also be found in the Middle East, Mexico, Africa, Russia and parts of the United States.

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He’s there to aid you, direct you, and lend a willing ear when the work day gets tough. He may be the boss, but he’s also a friend, colleague, and confidante. Bosses Day is October 16th, 2017, so celebrate the head honcho with a gift of thanks from the whole team!

While a gift from the whole group is sure to make his day, it’s no secret that things can get a little hectic when multiple people at a time are involved. Make the planning a bit simpler and ensure success by following these 8 simple tips for group gifting! Continue Reading…

Looking for the perfect Rosh Hashanah centerpiece or accent? Take inspiration from the star of the menu – apples – and turn them into wow-worthy décor with a few simple steps!

Using just a knife and flowers, we turned this go-to Rosh Hashanah treat into a conversation starting decoration. After creating your apple flowers, you can turn this DIY idea into place cards for a table setting (just tie a nametag around the apples), a juicy and vibrant centerpiece, or sweet accent pieces when you spread several throughout the room.

As this is a vase made from a fresh fruit, it is best to make these beauties the night before or morning of, if possible. Each apple takes about five minutes to make. Continue Reading…