Valentines Day Trivia

Yesterday I mentioned some crafts, now here is some trivia about Valentines Day that should be fun to share with your kids.

-In the United States, the first mass-produced valentines of embossed paper lace were produced and sold shortly after 1847 -- around 170 years ago!

-The U.S. Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately one billion valentines are sent each year worldwide, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year behind Christmas.

-In England there used to be a character called 'Jack' Valentine, who would knock on the rear door of houses leaving sweets and presents for children. Although he was leaving treats, many children were scared of this mystical person.

-110 million roses, the majority red, will be sold and delivered within a three-day time period.

-California produces 60 percent of American roses, but the vast number sold on Valentine's Day in the United States are imported, mostly from South America.

- In 1866, candy manufacturer NECCO made the first "Conversation Hearts" — then called "Motto Hearts." According to NECCO, eight billion of these little candies are sold between January 1 and February 14.

-The Italian city of Verona, where Shakespeare's lovers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives about 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet every Valentine's Day.

Hope these were interesting, and I hope you enjoyed seeing some of these vintage Valentines Day cards.