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Elegant Celtic Lifestyle, Music, Traditions, Histories, Trends

Why do our heart strings resonate to the sounds of a Celtic harp? Why are our eyes drawn to decipher the intricate weavings of a piece of Celtic knotwork? What cultural threads pull us backward in time, with the rhythm of a bodhran (a traditional Celtic frame drum)? Immerse yourself, in sight and sound, taste and feel, knowledge and lore, and join me on my search for threads leading to my own roots and perhaps yours as well.

Celebrate the elegant Celtic in all of us.
Also come visit, browse and indulge your inner elegant Celtic soul

Celtic Claddagh Rings for You and Your Beloved 

The Claddagh Ring belongs to a widespread group of finger rings called Fede or "Faith rings" which date from Roman times. They are distinguished by having the bezel cut or cast in the form of two clasped hands, symbolising faith, trust or "plighted troth". The manner in which they are worn reveals the heart of the person wearing one. Fede rings were popular in the Middle Ages throughout Europe, and there are examples from this time in the National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin. The "Claddagh" ring is a particularly distinctive ring; two hands clasp a heart surmounted by a crown.
Sterling Silver Green Celtic Knot Claddagh Ring Size 6(Size 5,6,7,8,9)

Sterling Silver Green Celtic Knot Claddagh Ring Size 6(Size 5,6,7,8,9)

Metal stamp: 925-Sterling
Metal: sterling-silver
Material: sterling-silver, crystal

Amazon Price: $13.99 (as of 12/09/2009) Buy Now

Celtic Instruments For Your Enjoyment 

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History and Lore of the Celtic People 

Celtic Origins and Mythology

(Celtic Tiles brought to you by Celtic Elegance)

Celtic Origins and Mythology
By Anastasia Phocas

The various fascinating evidences of the presence of the Celts - people of very ancient origin - are found even today in many European areas. The people of Celt spread their civilization to Brittany, Portugal, Ireland and the Danubian area. Specific atmosphere reflecting the culture of the Celts and clear evidences are easily found in all these countries. Some traces of the existing Celtic inheritance are found in places in south-west coastal Ireland.

People in several countries in Europe speak languages having their origin from Celtic Language. These are known as Indo-European languages. Art work with cultural traits connected with Celtic art has also been excavated from many archeological sites.

Presently, "Celtic" is regularly used to express the cultures and languages of Cornwall, Isle of Man, Wales, Scotland and Ireland and also Brittany in France. Scottish Gaelic, Welsh, Breton, Cornish and Irish are some of the languages still spoken, which have their origin from Celtic language. Find more info at http://www.celticresource.info

The study of history of Celts including disciplines such as paleolinguistics, ancient history, and history of Celtic art, anthropology, religious history, mythology, ethnology and folklore have been taking place in the last two decades.

Literary reference about the Celtic people was made by Hecataeus, a Greek historian in the 517 BC. The tribe of Keltoi - that's how the ancient Greeks refer the Celts - is located in Rhenania (present day West and Southwest Germany). The primogenitor of Celts is Celtus who is the son of Heracles and Keltine according to Greek mythology. Ancient Romans used the word "Celtae" to refer to Gauls from the continent.

 

(Celtic Tiles brought to you by Celtic Elegance)

Celtic myths were written only in the 11th Century AD; these myths are quite ancient and are kept alive by oral tradition.

Ireland and Wales are the main sources for the Celtic myths. The legends of King Arthur were originated from Wales and to some extent from Ireland. Brittany is the origin for medieval Romans of Isolde and Tristan which is very popular in British Isles and Continental Europe.
As per the Celtic myths the Celts divided their people by social classes and by clans. The nobles such as chiefs and kings are high among the social classes. They are a part of the warrior societies. The aristocrats dominated the warriors. Bards and druids are some of the other classes who were highly regarded for their knowledge.

Ancient Celtic people were enclosed by natural world on all sides. Celts were aware of the presence of nature and the total dependence on the fertility and balance for their basic comfort and basic nurture.

Cuchulainn, one of the ancient Gaelic heroes was endowed with superhuman qualities. The Hound of Culainn is the meaning of his name. Earlier he was known as Setanta. He was the son of Dechtire and Lugh Lamhfhada. He left his home when he was five years old to join the Red Branch Knights which is the Ulster army of the king Mac Nessa. He took his spear, his javelin and his silver ball with him when he joined the king. Upon reaching the palace at Emain Macha, with his javelin and silver ball he beat 150 boys in the games. When he was only seven years old, he killed Culainn's watch dog at Ulster and got his name Cuchulainn. By this act, he was entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the Ulster kingdom and its people.

Anastasia Phocas is a proud contributing author. Find more articles here. For more info visit Celtic Resources or Celtic Festivals

Anastasia Phocas is a proud contributing author. Find more articles here. For more info visit Celtic Resources or Celtic Festivals



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Read: Bard - Odyssey of the Irish 

Bard: The Odyssey of the Irish (Celtic World of Morgan Llywelyn)

Bard: The Odyssey of the Irish (Celtic World of Morgan Llywelyn)

by: Morgan Llywelyn

G. E. Williams "Nunah" (California) - See all my reviews

As one with distant Celtic heritage, that did not grow up with any of the wonderful stories that Llewelyn tells, I am grateful for for insights into the make up of my families psychology. Bard, Red Branch, Lion Of Ireland ect. Help me to both understand where we get some of our predelictions and temperments. So blah, blah, blah, to reviewers who want to show thier scholarly prowess by proving her inacurate.They are stories based on myths and legends, that are most likely based on some exaggerated truth. I loved this story.

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Create: Celtic Knotwork 

2 Ways to Draw Celtic Knotwork
2 Ways to Draw Celtic Knotwork
A side-by-side tutorial comparing two different methods! I've been drawing Celtic Knotwork for years and I have developed several techniques and my own methods. (Their font packages are fantastic!)
Make Celtic Knotwork
There are many methods for drawing celtic knotwork. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. The method you choose will depend on the details of your project and, of course, your preferences.
Elfwood: FARP : Drawing Celtic Knots, Tutorials (FARP)
Elfwood / FARP : Drawing Celtic Knots, Tutorials (FARP). A mix of history and technique written from the artist's point of view. Worth every moment of browsing.
Making Celtic Knots
Here are some examples of Celtic knots and how to draw them yourself. Methods of drawing Celtic knots - several are covered.
Steve Abbott's Computer Drawn Celtic Knotwork
Updated March 2006 with v3.42a which fixes some bugs with the new animation feature for the 2D knot drawing and also improves the lighting for the 3D knots. The latest version has an AutoGrid feature that lets you create complex
How to draw celtic knotwork
This method is based on the traditional way of drawing knotwork which, as far as we can tell, was used by the original celtic scribes. It is similar to the method given in George Bain's seminal Celtic Art - The Methods of Construction.
Welcome to myJanee.com!
If you are a beginner in the use of Photoshop, you can do this tutorial, but be patient with yourself. You should be able to follow it if you go slowly and step-by-step.
Draw a Celtic knot
Draw a Celtic Knot, Anatomy of a Trefoil in 5 steps. Basic but covers crucial terrain.
Celtic Knots: Construction
While reading Iain's book, I spent several weeks drawing various knots, trying to get a feel for the method. I seemed to be spending a lot of that time in the initial construction phases, building the diagonal grid on top of the square grid.

Hear: Top Ten Best Irish Artists / Celtic Artists 

and what do YOU think?

My opinions, of course, but I'd love to hear what you think as well! When I sit down to write music, I find that the first few bars of my new song try to pull themselves toward my Celtic roots. Now, I'm quite sure that my own compositions can't measure up to the top ten list below, although I am rather proud of them and may share them with the world at some point. Meanwhile, here for your sharing pleasure, are a few of my favorite Celtic and Irish musical artists.

1

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Enya

Enya, birth name Eithne Patricia Ní Bhraonáin (I more...1 point

2

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Loreena McKennitt

Loreena McKennitt, C.M. (born February 17, 1957) i more...1 point

3

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The Corrs

The Corrs are a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated C more...1 point

4

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Maire Brennan

Máire Ní Bhraonáin, IPA: /m%u02E0a%u02D0r%u02B2 more...1 point

5

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Clannad

Clannad are a Grammy Award-winning Irish musical g more...1 point

6

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Mary Black

While perhaps not as well known as Enya or Sinead more...1 point

7

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Celtic Woman

Celtic Woman is a musical ensemble comprised of fi more...0 points

8

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Riverdance

Riverdance is a theatrical show consisting of trad more...0 points

9

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The Chieftains

The Chieftains are a Grammy-winning Irish musical more...0 points

10

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The Pogues

The Pogues are a band of mixed Irish and English b more...0 points

 

Read: The New Arthurian Encyclopedia 

the wee folk made me include this

The New Arthurian Encyclopedia: Updated Paperback Edition (Garland Reference Library of the Humanities)

The New Arthurian Encyclopedia: Updated Paperback Edition (Garland Reference Library of the Humanities)

By J. Angus Macdonald "bibliovore" (Concord, CA United States) - See all my reviews

If you are serious about studying the Arthurian legends, you need this book. If you have no other reference work, this should be the one on your shelf. Lacy & Co. deserve heaps of praise on their heads for this volume! It covers aspects of the legends themselves in differing countries and in different eras. It covers art work. It covers music. It covers particular characters. It covers theories relating to the backgrounds to the legends, both historical and folklorical. The entries are readable, clear, and give lots of information so that you can follow up on any given topic. I cannot praise this book enough! Every library should have a copy (including many personal libraries...

Amazon Price: $62.39 (as of 12/09/2009) Buy Now
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Learn: Celtic and Irish History 

The ancient up to the nearly modern, a taste of the backbone of this fine culture of ours and how it has come to be what it is today. But before you paint your face with woad and grab up a spear a la Boudica, spend some time and read a bit more about where we came from and how the Celts came to be called the Celts.

(For a very comprehensive text, go to Wikipedia)
The Celtic World

The Celtic World

by: Miranda Green

From Library Journal
Green (Celtic Myths, Univ. of Texas Pr., 1994) brings together an impressive group of European, British, and American scholars to cover the spectrum of Celtic life. The weighty tome provides discussions on language, literature, archaeology, art, economics, religion, and daily life among these ancient people. Each chapter has its own list of references, which, unfortunately, are not compiled into a comprehensive bibliography. That each chapter has a different author is both a strength and a weakness of the work. It can be jarring to move from one writing style to another, but the variety of perspectives and opinions is fascinating. The index (not seen) will be essential to use this work effectively since some subjects receive attention in several chapters. Recommended for all academic libraries and public libraries with interest in this subject.?Pamela A. Grudzien, Central Michigan Univ., Mt. Pleasant
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

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Mistletoe - A Very Celtic Tradition 

Christmas Mistletoe The Magic is Still On! (Part 1)

Christmas Mistletoe - The Magic Is Still On!
By Sean Carter

Green shrub with small, yellow flowers and white, sticky berries, remind us of Christmas. This is interesting to note how mistletoe got associated with Christmas. One can trace back its origin in the pagan history. Mistletoe was used for ceremonial purposes by the Celtic Druids. They welcomed the winter season and the celebration was considered to be incomplete without paying a tribute to the healing power of the magical plant. It was the story of Goddess Frigga that led to the concept that the plant has magical powers. The belief goes that no one can be harmed under the mistletoe. Christians took the essence of the restoration of the life and fertility from the popular story.

The folklore customs are very much in favor of mistletoe and so we have almost forgotten that it is a parasite that sucks up the nutrients from the branches of the plants. The mystery perhaps lies in the concept that being parasite mistletoe cooks up its own food through the process of photosynthesis. But early churches banned the use of mistletoe for Christmas because of its pagan origin. The church fathers advised to use holly as a substitute for it during Christmas celebrations.

Now phoradendron flavescens species are used for Christmas celebrations and they can be found in rows from New Jersey to Florida in North America. Mistletoe was a part of Celtic tradition and at that time the hemi parasites on the oak trees were worshiped as they were rare and not the parasites on the apple trees. The Celtic European tradition was transferred to Americans as a Christian custom with the immigration and settlement.

(continued below...)

 

Let's get into the interesting story on how the name "mistletoe" came into existence. The name is a combination of the Anglo-Saxon words "mistel", meaning "dung" and "tan", meaning "twig". Hence, mistletoe is "dung-on-a-twig". Mistletoe gives the notion- life can spring from dung. The parasites grow on the dungs of the birds on the branches. Thus mistletoes came to be known as the symbol of life and fertility in the Christian domain of beliefs. They are also taken as the sexual symbol and the soul of the oak trees.

Each country nurtures a different notion about mistletoe and its role in Christmas celebrations. In Middle Age, they were hung from ceilings to drive out the evil spirits. Hence they were associated with the revival and restoration of "goodness". Kissing under the mistletoe was a Greek custom. It was a part of the Saturnalia celebration of primitive marriage rites. Scandinavians take them as the icon of peace. So, in every case we are getting Christian connotations either directly or indirectly. This is how mistletoe became a part and parcel of Christmas celebrations.

How can we love a hemi parasite? A hemi parasite can be defined as a parasitic plant which is capable of photosynthesis. The popular example of this can be the mistletoe. But now people are busy in the cultivation of special species of the magical plant to meet the demands of the customers during Christmas phase. One can go for fresh bunches for this Christmas.

Sean Carter writes on holidays, Christmas and world events. He also writes on family, relationships, Thanksgiving, religion, love and friendship. He is a writer with special interest in ecard industry and writes for 123greetings.com. He also writes blogs on Christmas Blogspot



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_Carter
http://EzineArticles.com/?Christmas-Mistletoe---The-Magic-Is-Still-On!&id=307094

 

Read: Celtic Focus on Books 

There is nothing more satisfying for me than to curl up in the recliner under a soft comforter, a cup of tea near one hand and a stack of books near the other. One of the most endearing and meaningful gifts I've received recently is a lovely collection of Celtic symbol books from my husband, who knows how special and strong this culture is to me. Artists: you may enjoy the Dover publications in particular, as they come with CDs in the back cover, jam-packed with art!
Symbols of the Celts

Symbols of the Celts

by: Sabine Heinz

What is it about the arts of the ancient Celts that makes them so fascinating for today's fashions and jewelry, graphic design, and even architecture? It's as though their ancient magical powers still cast a spell over us. Feel the power, as you become familiar with the stories and the representations of the 50 most important symbol groupings. Illustrated texts reveal dozens of cultic figures featured in ancient Celtic rituals, including wild animals and birds, reptiles and fish, trees and flowers, numbers, spirals, crosses, circles, and many other designs. Each spread depicts the qualities and values they symbolize, with examples of characters and stories from ancient myths that can be incorporated into your favorite designs today. 304 pages, 5 6/8 x 7 1/2.

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Possess: What Celtic Things Others Would Part With... 

We're far from the only Celtic fans (although sometimes Celtic symbols and items get confused with things appropriate for Celtic fans who worship the tossing and deployment of round objects in a sportsmanly environment). Let's see what they have to offer at this time, shall we? This can change rapidly, so keep watching!

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Read: At Swim-Two-Birds 

At Swim-Two-Birds (John F. Byrne Irish Literature Series)

At Swim-Two-Birds (John F. Byrne Irish Literature Series)

by: Flann O'Brien

Amazon.com Reviews
In a 1938 letter to a literary agent, Flann O'Brien described his first novel as "a very queer affair, unbearably queer perhaps." The book in question was At Swim-Two-Birds--and if we take queer to mean diabolically eccentric, then truer words were never spoken. The author, whose real name was Brian O'Nolan, had successfully stirred Gaelic legend, pulp fiction, and grimy Dublin realism into a hilarious cocktail. His mastery of modernist collage would have been an ample accomplishment itself. But O'Brien was also blessed with the writer's equivalent of perfect pitch, and in At Swim-Two-Birds he squeezes the maximum beauty and banality out of the English language. All he lacks is a tragic register, but he makes up for this deficit with a sense of comedy so acute that even James Joyce couldn't resist blurbing his fellow Dubliner's creation: "A really funny book."

Amazon Price: $10.04 (as of 12/09/2009) Buy Now

Watch: Celtic Dance, Concerts, Performances, Movies 

Honestly, there is no way to describe the heart-pounding sensation I experience when I watch Riverdance performances or a Celtic Woman concert. They bring me to my feet, cheering and clapping and scaring the cats. Anything with Michael Flatley performing raises my blood pressure into danger zones - at my age I should not be trying to dance along! But don't let that stop you...
Celebration of Irish Dancing

Celebration of Irish Dancing

Ceili Dancing is achieving unprecedented popularity throughout the world. This DVD brings together a collection of 8 World Champion Irish Dancers as well as other talented young dancers that have gone on to perform on the World Stage in such shows as "Riverdance" and "Lord Of The Dance." In addition to the dazzling steps of the dancers, you will see and hear the very cream of Ireland's Ceili Bands, like The Gallowglass, The Siamsa, The Sean Norman Ceili Band, Dermot O' Brien Quartet, The Fodhla Ceili Band, Sean McGuire and other great musicians backing these talented young dancers.

Release Date: 02/22/2005

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Read: Guises of the Morrigan 

The Guises of the Morrigan - The Irish Goddess of Sex & Battle

The Guises of the Morrigan - The Irish Goddess of Sex & Battle

by: David Rankine, Sorita D'Este

The Morrígan is the pre-eminent and most powerful of the Celtic Goddesses. She is the Bestower of Sovereignty, and it is she who shapes the land and rules the faery as Queen. She is a Goddess of both sex and battle, and she uses her potent magic and sorcery to shapeshift, assuming the forms of numerous wild animals. In this book the many parallels between The Morrígan and other Goddesses and figures from both British and Gallic folklore, including Morgan Le Fay, the Banshee, Black Annis, Danu, Epona, Grian, Modron, Nantosuelta and Rhiannon are explored.

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Snuggle: Cable Knit Throws 

Oh, I've included this since the very first cable knit pattern I tried was labeled Celtic Cables (and was actually an emulation for crochet). Treat yourself to a snuggly, and I just dare you to keep from trying to trace the cables each time you wear one.
Barefoot Dreams Handmade Cable Knit Throw Blankets - All Colors

Barefoot Dreams Handmade Cable Knit Throw Blankets - All Colors

Product Description
Grown ups deserve to experience the luxurious softness of Barefoot Dreams Throws. Wrap yourself up in our cable knit throw and relive the wonder and comfort of your favorite blankie. This luxurious throw is made of CozyChic poly-microfiber accented with mohair knitting at the ends of the throw and down the middle of one side of the throw. Like the regular Barefoot Dreams throw, it's just as soft, warm and comfortable. Great year-round gift for all occasions: Christmas, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, or an elegant birthday, wedding or house warming gift.

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Feel: Celtic Focus on Design 

I'm a personal fan of wearable art - heck, that's one of the biggest reasons I have so many Cafepress stores! Every time I turn on Photoshop, another design emerges and ends up getting onto t-shirts, tiles, mugs, wall prints and the like. Here are a few apparel items from our friends at Amazon.
Celtic Sarong - Green Cross

Celtic Sarong - Green Cross

Classic Celtic cross on a striking green background. Sarongs are incredibly useful, durable and make great gifts. Sarongs can be used in a multitude of ways. They work great as clothing items...bathing suit cover-ups, skirts, shawls, scarves, dresses and more. Our sarongs can also be used for practical purposes such as a baby carrier, a wall hanging, a tablecloth, a beach blanket or even gift wrap!

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The Tooth Fairy - Straight from the Celts 

The Legend and Charm of The Tooth Fairy
By Nancy Wurtzel

The legend and myth of the Tooth Fairy is a delightful part of
our modern family culture. Kids dream about receiving a
special gift or money from this charming, magical fairy.
Adults fondly remember the Tooth Fairy as a wonderful
childhood fantasy of their youth, and they pass on the
mystery and charm to their own young children.

In most households, the Tooth Fairy operates under cover of
darkness, coming to visit after a child loses what are
commonly called baby teeth. Parents help perpetuate the
fantasy by showing their children how to place the lost tooth
under their sleeping pillow or in a special holder or pillow
made just for the Tooth Fairy. Then, the Tooth Fairy herself
visits during the middle of the night, exchanging the tooth for
a gift or monetary reward.

The Tooth Fairy is a lovely fantasy, but how exactly did she
originate?

FAIRIES, FAIRIES EVERYWHERE

The beginnings of the Tooth Fairy probably began many
centuries ago in a culture that encouraged folklore, legend,
literature and the arts. Historians believe that this would
have been a culture where the concept and myth of fairies
was widely accepted -- possibly in Ireland or England.

We do know that the word fairy is derived from the French
spelling of faery. In a general sense, the mythical fairy dates
back to medieval days and was quite widespread,
especially among the Celtic peoples. References about
magical fairies -- both good and evil -- can be found in
numerous paintings and literature that predates Christianity.

Centuries later, the concept of the fairy became popular
during Shakespeare's day, as he and other writers of that
time period gave them prominent roles in their plays,
poems and other writings.

A MAGICAL MYTH BEGINS TO EVOLVE

So how did the Tooth Fairy as we know it today begin to take
root? There are several theories.

Among the Nordic people, it is widely believed that the
Vikings had a "tooth fee," that was paid to children when
they lost a tooth. Once paid for, these teeth were probably
strung together to make a necklace or some other type of
adornment that the Viking warriors wore into battle.

 

In Medieval Europe, it was common to bury a child's tooth in
the ground, usually in a garden or a field close to home.
Supposedly, the tooth was buried so that a new one would
be free to grow in its place, and it discouraged the evil
witches from finding the tooth and putting a curse on the
child.

When Europeans and others began migrating to the New
World in great numbers during the 17th century, they
brought their superstitious beliefs with them. But as towns
and cities took shape, people found that they sometimes
didn't have a place to bury the teeth. Instead, the lost tooth
was often placed in a small planter, perhaps on a window
sill or just outside a door.

No one really knows what prompted parents to begin putting
the tooth under a child's pillow or when the practice of
leaving a gift became widespread. However, it probably
began to be part of our American folklore sometime during
the late 19th century.

YOU'VE GOT QUESTIONS, THE TOOTH FAIRY HAS ANSWERS

While everyone seems to know about the Tooth Fairy, not
everyone celebrates in exactly the same manner. And,
parents often have questions. Following are some
common questions concerning this fantasy fairy who visits
in the night and leaves presents and money.

Why did a fairy become associated with losing a baby tooth?
Many old cultures marked the loss of a child's baby or milk
teeth. Some ancient cultures placed the lost tooth in a tree
or threw it to the sun. Other rituals involved having an adult
swallow the tooth or burn it.

Why is the Tooth Fairy so popular?

The Tooth Fairy is a whimsical concept that helps both
parent and child mark the transition from infancy to
childhood. It's a rite of passage that is not attached to any
religion or holiday, which accounts for its widespread
celebration.

When does the Tooth Fairy come to visit?

Although it varies, children generally lose their first baby
tooth between the ages of 5 and 7 years.

Why is the Tooth Fairy traditionally female?

As a popular culture figure of relatively modern times, the
Tooth Fairy is usually depicted as a woman. However,
some companies are now offering Tooth Fairy "Prince" style
gifts for the boys to enjoy.

 

What does the Tooth Fairy exchange for the child's tooth?

A generation ago, the Tooth Fairy brought only a modest gift,
perhaps a dime or a quarter. In very recent years, that
amount has increased dramatically and children now
receive Tooth Fairy gifts ranging from a dollar to five dollars
to much more. Sometimes the monetary amount is
considerably higher for the first tooth lost. Instead of cash,
some parents opt for a gift. But money remains the most
popular choice.

Is the Tooth Fairy celebrated around the world?

Throughout English-speaking and many European
countries, the Tooth Fairy tradition is widely known and
practiced. Although in many cultures, the first lost tooth is
the only one recognized by the Tooth Fairy.

THE END OF A MAGICAL CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE

Alas, a child's belief in the Tooth Fairy is all too fleeting. By
the age of nine or ten, most children have stopped believing
in the Tooth Fairy. Many kids, however, continue to play
along with their parents because they enjoy the tradition and
they like collecting the money! The last baby teeth are
usually gone by age 12, and the Tooth Fairy ceases her
visits.

What happens to all the teeth collected over the years by the
Tooth Fairy?

Some parents tell their children that the teeth become the
countless shimmering stars in the sky. Others say that the
Tooth Fairy is building a fabulous castle for herself using all
of the "donated" teeth. Today, there are numerous books
available about the Tooth Fairy that offer their own version of
what happens to the countless lost teeth.

In the end, the magic of the Tooth Fairy is perpetuated by
parents who make up their own stories and create their own
rituals. This only adds to the magical charm that we call the
Tooth Fairy.

Nancy Wurtzel is the founder and owner of All About Baby,
an ecommerce site located at http://www.allbaby.com. All
About Baby specializes in personalized and memorable
gifts for children as well as interesting and helpful
child-related site content. Ms. Wurtzel has over 20 years of
marketing and communications experience. She consults
with small businesses seeking to enter the marketplace or
grow their existing ecommerce business.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Wurtzel
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Legend-and-Charm-of-The-Tooth-Fairy&id=930

 

Cook: Irish and Celtic Cookbooks 

If there's one way I can tell I've got to have strong Celtic roots, it is that I absolutely LOVE a great corned beef and cabbage on any day of the year. I don't feel duty-bound to wait for St Patrick's Day to whip up a batch, nor do I feel any obligation to share it with those who do not appreciate its fine flavors and textures. Well, all right, I'll share, but only the recipes and cookbooks themselves. You have to do the heavy lifting yourself if you want to enjoy the experience completely.
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide

Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide

by: Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn

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Observe: Irish and Celtic Culture 

Blogs with a focus on Celtic and Irish musical artists, performances, groups, trends and the like. Want to keep track of what your favorite Celtic music artist is doing? This is the place to watch. If I had unlimited funds, I believe I'd buy a jet and become an Enya groupie fulltime! As it is, I'll probably have to settle for listening from afar, but don't let that stop you...
Celtic MP3s Music Magazine: MP3: "Galway Shawl" by Collen Raney
The Celtic MP3s Music Magazine is a free monthly Celtic music magazine featuring free music download...
The Chieftains partner with Ry Cooder for “San Patricio ...
The Chieftains - the leading practitioners of Irish traditional music for the past four decades. The...
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White Horse Weather Vanes - Celtic Tradition in America 

White Horse Weather Vanes
By Ross Bainbridge



Weather vanes, which are devices for measuring wind direction, are one of the oldest geographic tools used by man. They have an ornamental value in many American homes, giving a classy and artistic look to the house. They are used on all kinds of buildings: residences, farmhouses, barns, garages, offices, and churches. They are available in several designs shaped like simple arrows, animals, birds, humans, crests, exotic figurines, or combinations of some of these.

Weather vanes are also available in several models like: deck or fence weather vanes, lawn weather vanes, table top weather vanes, roof top weather vanes, and more and are provided with the accessories like cupolas, mounting shafts, and roof mount bases. Modern wind vanes are also mounted with an anemometer for measuring the wind speed and may be connected to a remote reading station. Modern weather vanes are rust free and maintenance free.

Though weather vanes are generally shaped like arrows, designs have become quite ornate over time. The white horse weather vane is one of the most popular designs. The white horse carries a certain symbolism, which makes it a favorite among many. White horses are associated with fertility, empathy, travel, power, freedom, peace, sincerity, wealth and loyalty. They are referred in the bible and their tradition dates back to the Celtic mythology. In the bible, they are used to represent virtues like righteousness, holiness and purity and also stand for salvation. White horse weather vanes hold very strong symbolic messages. They are also particularly relevant for Irish people since their folklore and fairy tales consider white horses to be very majestic. Arabian horses represent peace, friendship, sincerity and honor.

 

White horse weather vanes are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes and finishes. Whitehorse weather vanes are also designed with one horse, a group of horses or horse with a carriage, etc. These vanes are ideal for horse lovers. They can be made of copper, wrought iron, bronze, aluminum, and stainless steel. White horse weather vanes still hold a lot of appeal for townspeople and country folk alike.

Weathervanes provides detailed information on weather vanes, including copper, wrought iron, and antique weather vanes, as well as rooster, white horse, blue heron, and custom weather vanes. Weathervanes is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ross_Bainbridge
http://EzineArticles.com/?White-Horse-Weather-Vanes&id=69329

Read: Brigid of Ireland 

Brigid of Ireland: A Historical Novel

Brigid of Ireland: A Historical Novel

by: Cindy Thomson

In 5th-century pagan-dominated Ireland, Brigid is born a slave to her own father and is separated from her mother. Desperately seeking love and acceptance, Brigid becomes a believer in Christ. Knowing how the Irish people cling to superstitions and fears, can Brigid overcome them? Will her hatred for her father and a scheming evil sorcerer destroy her faith? Set in the era of St. Patrick, this fantasy-filled novel will captivate readers as Brigid must choose between Gods will and the desire to save her family.

Amazon Price: $11.19 (as of 12/09/2009) Buy Now

 

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News and reviews of Celtic performances around the known universe. A great way to 'be there' vicariously (and isn't that what blogs are about, in their own special way). Also keep up with the news of your favorite Celtic performer (and my apologies if the occasional sports reference sneaks into view).
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As a budding intrepreneur, I make no bones about the fact that I'm actively designing and promoting webstores of several types. I also run a handful of blogs aimed at niche interests like camping, cooking and cats.
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Respond: Reader Feedback 

Celtic roots stretch forward far, and may be intertwined with your own family's tree. Some of the most powerful music I have heard has been Afro-Celtic (oh, if I find these albums referenced online, I WILL include them). How does this make you feel?

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by Caseyfern

M K (Casey) van Bronkhorst





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