Merry Christmas 2009

The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight. Read more at History.com

It wasn’t until the 19th century that Americans began to embrace Christmas. Americans re-invented Christmas, and changed it from a raucous carnival holiday into a family-centered day of peace and nostalgia. But what about the 1800s peaked American interest in the holiday? Read more at History.com

Ugly sweater “knitted” at WeLoveHolidaySweaters.WeHateSheep.com

Christmas Party Kitsch pt2 by eighty jane featuring American Eagle Outfitters

Christmas Party Kitsch by eighty jane featuring Marc by Marc Jacobs bags

Tags: christmas, holiday, polyvore