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Backstory of Common Holiday Plants

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ourmshome.com – Mark W. LaSalle, Ph.D. – 2023-12-16 07:34:20

SUMMARY: Seasonal plants are entrenched in Christian and Jewish holiday traditions with fascinating origins. Christians typically favor poinsettias, Christmas trees, holiday cactuses, mistletoe, and holly. Poinsettias, originally from Mexico, became associated with Christmas through Franciscan priests and were popularized in the U.S. by Joel Roberts Poinsett. The Christmas tree, a 16th-century German tradition symbolizing life, was likely introduced to the U.S. by German immigrants. Holiday cactuses bloom in cooler temperatures, mistletoe symbolizes good fortune and fertility in European traditions, and holly was initially used by Romans before being adopted by Christians. For Hanukkah, Jews prefer white and blue flowers like lilies, roses, orchids, and hydrangeas, with lilies representing new beginnings. Unconventional holiday plants include Wax Myrtle, used in Bayberry Candles, and the Night of Radishes in Oaxaca, which features carved tubers. Wassailing in England involves blessing apple orchards for a fruitful harvest. These traditions contribute to the rich tapestry of holiday celebrations.

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A Sanctuary in Goodman: The Magic of the Public Library

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ourmshome.com – Chelsey George – 2025-09-16 14:00:00

SUMMARY: In Goodman, Mississippi, the small library housed in a former church transformed under Rachel Floyd’s leadership since 2021. Despite the town’s high poverty and limited opportunities, the library has become a vibrant sanctuary for children. Its unique features, like a spiral staircase leading to a kids’ area and displays of local art, create a welcoming, lively environment. Rachel’s dedication to diverse programs—storytimes, crafts, STEAM clubs—boosted book checkouts from 83 to 823 over three years. More than a library, it is a community hub where children feel valued, inspired, and free to explore, learn, and grow.

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Family of Curious George Creators to Visit de Grummond in Hattiesburg

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ourmshome.com – University of Southern Mississippi – 2025-09-15 11:28:00

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The de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection at The University of Southern Mississippi houses the papers of H.A. and Margret Rey, creators of Curious George. From October 23-28, the Rey family visits Hattiesburg for a reunion celebrating their legacy with exhibitions, children’s activities, a musical, and a documentary screening. The Curious George: Original Works on Paper exhibit features rare Rey materials, including original art and letters. The collection, founded by Dr. Lena de Grummond, holds manuscripts of over 1,400 authors and illustrators. The Reys created Curious George during their 1940 flight from France, later publishing the beloved series in New York.

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Rolling Through History: The Comfort and Culture of Dumplings

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ourmshome.com – Julian Brunt – 2025-09-14 11:02:00

SUMMARY: Dumplings are a comforting, versatile food with many variations worldwide. A classic Southern recipe uses simple flour and water dumplings simmered in chicken stock made from roasted chicken bones and sautéed mirepoix. Alternatives include using biscuit or Bisquick mixes for quick dumplings. Frozen dumplings are convenient but often less favored. Dumplings can be stuffed, such as Chinese potstickers or Eastern European pierogi, with fillings like pork, beef, vegetables, and cheese. Southerners also enjoy deep-fried dumplings. Originating in China during the Eastern Han dynasty, dumplings spread globally via trade routes. They are best enjoyed with flavorful dipping sauces of soy, garlic, vinegar, and chili oil.

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