March 1, Granny Martha's Day

[Suzanne]

For every Bulgarian, March 1 is the day of what are known as Martenitsi. They are an ancient pagan ritual symbol of the in-coming spring. People give each other these white and red intertwined in different forms threads for health throughout the year.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/25/Martenitsa.jpg/180px-Martenitsa.jpg

[alsie989]

Now this custom gave me all sorts of scope after my mother in law sent these threads over. Yes l admit l had some friends bemused and amused by this including tying the thread to certain parts of the anatomy untill they seen a deer(rare here) ;) promising them they would have a much improved love life if they carried this out. It was great to see Duncan on ``dancing on ice `` wearing one as his partner Maria is Bulgarian. Yes folk customs i am sorry l twisted this Bulgarian custom a little but the amusement l got in seeing their faces was worth it im sure you will agree . My wife (bless her) was just a little to quick to tell them that l was talking the proverbial bullshit. Nevermind there is always next christmas where l can beat them mercilesily with a big stick ! Yes good people in forum land my friends and relations are adopting Bulgarian customs freely now in honour of my wife of course (LMAO). Chao -- Alsie :(