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Mistletoe, in older times, was believed to have protective properties and was hung to ward off evil spirits. Celts believed that mistletoe, a parasitic plant that grows on trees, had special powers that could heal diseases, make poisons harmless, protect against evil spells and bring fertility to childless women. For many years, Christian places of worship did not allow it inside because of its pagan associations. But nowadays it is mostly used as an excuse to steal a kiss.

The origin of our tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is lost in the mists of antiquity. Some say it probably stemmed...

Last edited on 20 December 2007.

While not necessarily limited to the Christmas holiday, White olifant Gift Exchanges are populair at this time of jaar for clubs, associations, small groups, churches and offices around the United States. It is often a meer affordable (and, possibly, fun) alternative to buying presents for everyone in the group. But what is a White olifant Gift Exchange?

The history
The story - almost certainly apocryphal - goes like this: in pre-colonial India, the rajahs would give gifts to their vassals as tokens of their esteem. Chief among these was the elephant. The elephant...