Saint Valentine or Saint Anthony?

Today is "Valentine's" Day in Brazil. Except that it's not related to Saint Valentine, like in most countries, but to Saint Anthony (Santo Antônio), who is considered to be the wedding Saint in that neck of the woods. 

Now, to me the most interesting traditions happen tomorrow, June 13th, which is the actual day of Santo Antônio. Tomorrow, many people in Brazil, religious or not, will take their little statues of the Saint and hang it upside down, or lock it in a dark closet, submerge it under water, or ever steal the baby Jesus from his arms. And Santo Antônio will remain hostage until he finds the kidnapper a new boyfriend or girlfriend. Wicked, I know! And also a little disturbing...but hey, if it helps! LOL.

Slick and Concise Year in Review

I always get over-sentimental around New Year's. It's a mix of nostalgia for the wonderful times that have passed, anxiety to achieve the things I think I should already have, and a biological need to be at a warm beach in my hometown, jumping seven waves in one foot while making wishes (yes, that's one of our New Year's great traditions!). To me, New Year's in the cold just doesn't make sense!

The Arts & Craft Movement???

Was I the only one who had never heard of the Arts & Craft Movement from the 1800s? The story is quite fascinating, and yes, this is the opinion of a History enthusiast. But what do you think?

So, when do we have time for our hobbies?

I believe time is the most precious asset of a hobbyist. Since my last/first post I have been eager to start my next project, but a busy week just won't let me do it. And having to wait for the weekend to arrive again is just so stressful! I thought hobbies were supposed to relax us!

I have seen it my whole life, at home. I mean, the lack of time for the things we truly enjoy. My dad is probably the greatest hobbyist I have ever known. Everything is of interest to him and he is always working on multiple projects at a time. The fact that he has two jobs and many other commitments doesn't seem to stop him, but it sure slows him down. He always finds time, but is far from being enough. So, when do we ever have time for our hobbies?