Old World Christmas

The Story Behind The legend of Santa Claus is derived from the European figure St. Nicholas and American writers who wrote children s poems in the 19th century. Santa Claus became the jolly man clad...

The Martini is one of the most famous and popular cocktails. Winston Churchill, Franklin Roosevelt and James Bond were all fans of this legendary drink. The classic Martini is made with gin and...

The Story Behind Maple syrup is poured over pancakes, waffles and oatmeal to make a delicious breakfast meal. Maple syrup is made in the late winter and early spring days when maple trees are tapped...

A lion cub playfully lives its young life as it learns how to survive. A cub represents new life in a harsh and unforgiving climate. Although known as strong, powerful and fierce animals, most of the...

The Story Behind Letters to Santa are mailed from around the world. Jolly Old Saint Nick reads each letter. Making note of wish list items, examining arguments to be on the nice list and notes of...

The Story Behind Over the years the handcarved and painted Dala Horse has become a symbol of authentic Swedish handicraft and one of Sweden's most popular souvenirs. The name comes from its home...

The Story Behind Quarter horses are a common horse breed in America. Exceptionally versatile, they are easy to train and are adopted as pets, compete in rodeo events or as a cowboy s transportation...

Did you know a horsehoe crab is not a crab, but more closely related to spiders? These bottom-dwelling coastal creatures have a fascinating anatomy with four eyes, twelves legs and a tiny set of...

Horseshoes are considered to bring good luck. In the days when folks believed in the magical powers of iron, horseshoes were hung above a doorway to protect the inhabitants against witches and other...

The Story Behind Hockey is played around the world and is an Olympic event. This widely known and popular sport has been played in North America since the late 1800s. Hockey is a great winter sport...

The Story Behind The Scottish breed of cattle, the Highland cow has long horns and a wavy wooly coat to protect it from the rainy and windy conditions. The hearty cows are a symbol of nourishment and...

The Story Behind Despite their name and reputation, hermit crabs are social creatures and can live together in pairs or groups. A hermit crab s reputation is known for being independent, reclusive...