Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Spreading Joy and Cheer: Merry Christmas Everyone

With the holiday season here, the spirit of Christmas permeates the air, and what better way to spread joy and cheer than through an awesome short video saying "Merry Christmas Everyone!" This brief yet powerful message encapsulates the essence of the holiday season, bringing warmth and love to people's hearts, to anyone in the world that wants to see it.

In recent years, social media platforms have become a popular medium for sharing festive greetings, showcasing creativity, and connecting with loved ones. The tradition of sending heartwarming messages has taken a delightful twist with the advent of short videos, allowing people to convey their heartfelt wishes in a visually appealing and engaging manner.

Creating this short video saying "Merry Christmas Everyone" is our way to express the joy and happiness associated with this special time of the year. We hope this video has the power to spread holiday spirit and unite people from all backgrounds and cultures.

Friday, December 22, 2023

The Enchanting Christmas Tradition: The Nutcracker Ballet

As the winter chill sets in and the holiday spirit fills the air, there is one timeless Christmas tradition that captures the hearts and imaginations of people across the globe - The Nutcracker ballet. This beloved performance has become synonymous with the festive season, enchanting audiences young and old with its magical story, exquisite choreography, and melodic compositions. Let's dive into the captivating world of The Nutcracker and discover why it continues to be celebrated as a cherished holiday classic.

Origin and History:
The Nutcracker ballet, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographed by Marius Petipa, made its debut in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in 1892. Adapted from German author E.T.A. Hoffmann's fairy tale "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King," the ballet tells the story of a young girl named Clara and her extraordinary Christmas Eve adventure.


Plot and Characters:
The Nutcracker unfolds as Clara's Godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, presents her with a wooden nutcracker doll that comes to life and engages in a ferocious battle with an army of mice. Subsequently, audiences are transported to the enchanting Land of Sweets, where Clara gets to witness mesmerizing performances by a variety of characters, including the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Nutcracker Prince, and other whimsical residents.

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Winter Solstice - Darkest Day of the Year Norther Hemisphere

The winter solstice is an astronomical event that occurs annually on December 21 or 22, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a significant event that has been celebrated for centuries by different cultures and religions around the world.

During the winter solstice, the tilt of the Earth's axis is at its maximum angle away from the sun, resulting in the shortest period of daylight and the longest night. The timing of the solstice varies slightly each year due to slight fluctuations in Earth's orbit. In contrast, the opposite occurs during the summer solstice, which marks the longest day and shortest night of the year.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Maturity Is

In a world that celebrates productivity and achievement, it is easy to forget the importance of being kind to oneself. However, taking care of yourself is as crucial to your well-being as accomplishing your goals. In fact, it is the first step towards achieving any goal.

Being kind to yourself means treating yourself with the same kindness, patience, and compassion that you would extend to a friend. It means not pushing yourself beyond your limits, but rather, listening to your body when it needs rest, nourishing yourself with healthy food, and exercising regularly. It means taking the time to do the things you enjoy, whether it is reading, painting, gardening, or spending time with loved ones.

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

The Sparkling Lights At Spruce Meadows

Every year, the Spruce Meadows Christmas Lights Display brings a touch of magic to the holiday season. This spectacle of sparkling lights is a beloved tradition that has been enchanting visitors for over two decades.

Spruce Meadows is a world-renowned equestrian facility located in Calgary, Alberta. Each year, from late November to early January, the beautiful grounds are transformed into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights and holiday cheer. The display features over 2 million lights, making it one of the largest Christmas light displays in Canada.

Visitors can stroll along the various pathways and gaze in wonder at the enchanting light sculptures, including reindeer, sleighs, and angels. The display also features some interactive elements.

The Spruce Meadows Christmas Lights Display is an iconic tradition that has become a staple for many Calgarians during the holiday season. Families and friends gather to experience the magic of the lights and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Spruce Meadows Christmas Lights Display is an amazing spectacle that is not to be missed. Whether you are a local looking for a magical outing or a tourist visiting Calgary during the holiday season, this stunning display of sparkling lights is sure to leave you in awe. 

Just imagine, we are only showing one photograph here, and I personally think this was a beautiful setup, there is so much more to see and it is always nice to be able to see it in person. To sit down with a warm drink and a lovely snack with friends and family is memory that can be cherished for years to come.

FYI: AI helped us to write this article, if there are errors that we have missed, please accept our apologies.
 

Monday, December 18, 2023

Spruce Meadows Christmas Lights Display

The Spruce Meadows blue light up Christmas trees is a stunning holiday display that has become a new favourite of ours, and likely many other Calgarians. But what makes this tree so special?

From a distance to me, I assumed it was simply a decorated tree, but this tree is made of all metal, branches and all, we even went as far as looking at the panel at the base of one of these trees, looks like quite the amount of hookups are needed.

The colour I think is what attracts plenty of people, they really stand out and of course Spruce Meadows did place them strategically where they would have the most impact. Whoever does the decor designs for Spruce Meadows is an amazing person, or persons.

This was our first year to go and take a look at the Christmas Lights at Spruce Meadows, but now that we have been we will be going back again next year, I wonder, even right now, will many of the decorations be the same, or will they design it uniquely different? I'm hoping the the unique, it can then be a surprise each year that we go to see the display.

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Do you like Fresh Made Chocolate and Candies?

That's a good question isn't it and you can probably assume what our answer is, 'Of course we do!'. When Black Diamond had their Light Up Event a couple of weeks ago, we just happened across this lovely little shop, prior to this Light Up Event we had no idea there was a chocolate store there, even-though we live nearby in Okotoks Alberta. 

The fellow in the shop made Candy Canes right there and then while we were in the store, we have that coming up in another video. This video is just a quick glimpse of the chocolates that he makes, he told us he makes those in the front as well, so we are gong to go back and capture the creation of his chocolate Bonbons in the near future we hope. Check out the video, there are a few different flavours of Bonbons to choose from.

Rudolph and Santa for a Bit of Holiday Cheer

Santa and Rudolph are getting ready for Christmas, are you ready for the upcoming holiday? We made this video to hopefully bring a smile to a face or two. Kass always puts a lot of time and effort into his creations, I would say he sometimes overthinks the whole process and stresses himself out. Please watch the video, if you like it, you know what to do. Thanks from KassDays, may your holidays be Merry and Bright.

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Beautiful Christmas Decorations at CrossIron Mills Mall

KassDays decided to make a trip to a not so nearby mall, we went up to the CrossIron Mills on the north side of Calgary Alberta, closer I suppose to being in Balzac, but don't quote me on that. We did end up finding what we needed and we also found some wonderful subjects to photograph.

The Christmas Trees you see in this photo actually change colours, I found them really pretty and an item I would not mind having but at this time I will be abstaining from that purchase. There were so many wonderful decorations at the mall, I was quite surprised to be honest.

It was not all about Christmas Trees, we did find a lovely chocolate store as well, and of course we just had to try some out, and it was good of course.

We did not buy a whole lot, but we were happy to be able to look at all the lovely things that were available. I think all I bought was some chocolate and a quality flashlight, we did of course have a bite to eat while we were there, We simply at at the food court, I think it is the first time I have been in that food court, it is quite spacious. It was a peaceful day at the mall, wasn't overly busy, we were out of there by 2pm, the later in the day it got, it seems the busier it gets; at least at this time of year.

Saturday, December 9, 2023

Millarville Alberta Christmas Market

Hello, we are KassDays and we did manage to make a trip out to the Millarville Christmas Market this year, it was our first time at their market. We were pleasantly surprised on how many vendors there actually were, there was certainly something there for everyone. From food, to unique crafts, Art, decorations, clothing, Wines and so much more, there were quite a few breweries to peruse, to see what new and unique flavours they had for you to try out. 

This market is over for this year but we most definitely will be going back again next year, it's not a far drive for us. Plus, I like to get out of the house to see new and exciting things, love looking at unique items and art, you name it, whatever pleases the eye.

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Christmas Trees at Spruce Meadows Alberta

A Festive Tradition for the Whole Family

More than just an exhibition of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, Spruce Meadows Alberta 2023 offers a plethora of activities and attractions for families to enjoy. 

Visitors can explore Santa's Village, where children can meet the jolly man in red and participate in various seasonal crafts and games. Festive music fills the air as carollers perform beloved holiday classics, setting the stage for a memorable and heartwarming experience.



The decorated Christmas trees at Spruce Meadows Alberta 2023 embodied the enchantment and wonder of the holiday season. This eagerly awaited event invites visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of the season. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor from afar, the captivating display of ornate trees at Spruce Meadows is an experience that truly captures the joy and spirit of Christmas, creating lasting memories cherished for years to come.

As an FYI the Christmas Market has come to a close for 2023, if this has piqued your interest, we strongly suggest you put it on your calendar for 2024. If you would like to see the upcoming videos we have on our visit to this years market, here is our YouTube Channel.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Santa Claus or Samichlaus the Swiss Santa - Which do you prefer?

Up until a few years ago I did not know that there was such a thing as a Swiss Santa named Samichlaus and he had a pal named Schmutzli and they would travel along with their donkey and visit the homes and schools of the children, to find out who had been naughty or nice. 

There were even tales that sometimes children would end up in Schmutzli's sack and out the door he would go with the sack over his shoulder. I do not have a lot of info on it but here is a website that will tell you more. Santa Claus and Samichlaus are quite different, it is an interesting tale.

Monday, December 4, 2023

Experiencing the Magic of a Full Moon

The sight of a full moon illuminating the night sky has captivated humans for centuries. There's something undeniably enchanting about witnessing this celestial phenomenon, as the moon's illuminated face becomes a beacon of light amidst the darkness. The ethereal glow, serene ambience, and mysterious allure of a full moon have inspired countless tales, traditions, and even scientific studies. In this article, we will delve into the unique experience of witnessing a full moon and explore the various cultural, spiritual, and scientific perspectives associated with it.

Cultures across the globe have long held deep reverence for the full moon. Many ancient civilizations viewed it as a symbol of transformation, marking significant events such as the changing of seasons or the completion of a lunar cycle. It often played a crucial role in religious and spiritual practices, believed to possess potent energies that influenced human behaviour and emotions. From the mystical beliefs of ancient Egyptians to the mythical legends of werewolves, the full moon has consistently held a prominent place in folklore and storytelling.

Spiritually, the full moon is associated with a time of heightened intuition, emotional energy, and spiritual growth. Many individuals believe that the moon's energy can amplify their intentions and facilitate self-reflection, making it an ideal time for meditation, manifestation, or engaging in healing rituals. Some people even participate in moon rituals, where they gather under the moonlit night to express gratitude, release negativity, or set new intentions. Whether grounded in ancient practices or contemporary spirituality, the full moon holds a special significance for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the universe.

From a scientific perspective, the full moon continues to intrigue researchers and stargazers alike. Its gravitational pull, along with other celestial bodies like the sun and Earth, affects tides and oceanic currents. In fact, the word "lunatic" derives from the belief that the moon's influence can disrupt human mental stability. While no substantial scientific evidence supports such claims, studies have explored potential links between the lunar cycle and human behaviour, sleep patterns, and mood changes. Though inconclusive, these investigations highlight the moon's enduring ability to spark curiosity and inspire scientific inquiry.

Aside from its cultural and scientific implications, there is something inherently peaceful and tranquil about basking in the glow of a full moon. Whether taking a leisurely stroll under the moonlit sky, gathered around a bonfire with loved ones, or simply gazing out a window, the mesmerizing sight of a full moon evokes a sense of awe and wonder. Its radiance has a way of soothing the mind and uplifting the spirit, reminding us of the vastness and beauty of the universe we are a part of.

In conclusion, experiencing a full moon is a breathtaking encounter that bridges the gap between the physical and metaphysical realms. It holds a special place in our collective consciousness, inspiring curiosity, spirituality, and a deep connection with the world around us. So, the next time a full moon graces the night sky, take a moment to immerse yourself in its mystical glow and let the magic unfold.

This video is what we saw from Okotoks Alberta Canada.

Giant Nutcracker Steals the Show

Giant Nutcracker Steals the Show at Spruce Meadows’ New Enchanted Festival Calgary, Dec 9, 2025 – If you scrolled YouTube this weekend and s...