Symbolic December

December got its name from the Latin word 'decem '(meaning ten) because it was originally the tenth month of the year in the Roman calendar, which began in March. The winter days following December were not included as part of any month. Later, the months of January and February were created out of the monthless period and added to the beginning of the calendar, but December retained its name.

The Anglo-Saxons referred to December–January as Ġēolamonaþ (modern English: "Yule month"). The French Republican Calendar contained December within the months of Frimaire and Nivôse.

December Birth Month Flower: The Narcissus - Paperwhite 
The narcissus conveys that you want your beloved to stay just the way they are. 
While there are many types of narcissus, the 'paperwhite' is the winter-growing variety and the birth flower for December.
 
Poinsettia - These flowers are typically associated with Christmas. While considered by the ancient Aztecs to be symbols of purity, in today's language of flowers, red, white or pink poinsettias, the December birth flower, symbolise good cheer and success and are said to bring wishes of mirth and celebration. 

The December birthstone, turquoise, is regarded as a love charm. It is also a symbol of good fortune and success, and it is believed to relax the mind and to protect its wearer from harm. Turquoise rings, in particular, are thought to keep away evil spirits.

It has long been known that listening to music has positive health benefits, so below is a small sample of some of the music that is available on our Private Wiki.

These have been chosen by some of our members

Elderly Care at Christmas

December is finally upon us, with preparations for the festive period well underway. For those of us with elderly relatives requiring support with daily tasks, a little planning ahead will go a long way to relieving pressure, allowing the whole family to relax and make the most of the precious time together.....

A Poem - Fern Hill by Dylan Thomas written in 1945

Now as I was young and easy under the apple boughs

About the lilting house and happy as the grass was green,

The night above the dingle starry,

Time let me hail and climb