Lately, I have been checking out what "special" things make up each day of the week. It has been very interesting to learn what "national" thing has been designated for each day and the reasons behind it. I love to learn, so even the smallest thing like this is fun for me.
So, apparently today is National Candy Day! Who knew? With Halloween over, I bet many of you have a lot of candy left, or have a lot of candy in your household from the trick or treating that occurred. We never get any trick or treaters, so I have not bought candy for Halloween in many, many years! We live in an unincorporated subdivision with a little bit of acreage at the end of the street, so most kids do not come this far down. Or, they trick or treat in other subdivisions that have houses closer together.
But, I always have candy as a treat for my clients! If you visit me, there is a HUGE basket of candy on our table and a smaller one in the client room off the studio. So, never fear-there will always be sweets here!
So, here is the lowdown on National Candy Day!
Candy History
The word, "candy" was first used in the late 13th century and was borrowed from the Old French cucre candi, and derived in turn from the Persian Qand and Qandi, meaning cane sugar. The word itself is a very broad term. Does it mean chocolate, hard candy, or what about gumdrops?
Since sugar was not very available, the first candies were made from honey by coating fruits and flowers with it. This method preserved the flowers and fruits and created what we know now as "candy". Candy was also originally used as a form of medicine that calmed the digestive system or coated a sore throat. Honey does that now, doesn't it?
Still, candy was considered a luxury that only the wealthy could afford. By the 18th century, it is said that candy first came to America from Britain and France and it was made from crystallized sugar, which is rock candy.
But, candy came into it's own as we know it today during the industrial revolution. In 1847 the candy press was invented making it possible to produce multiple shapes and sizes at one time, and by 1851, confectioners began using a revolving steam pan to assist in the boiling process. Since 1979, the world has produced more sugar than can be sold, making it very attainable and cheap. Which means, candy was no longer a luxury or just for the wealthy.
Did you know that M & M's were developed following the Spanish Civil War by Forrest Mars, Sr. and William Murrie? They called this new candy M and M's with the initials of their surnames! The candy came to market in 1941 and was given to American soldiers serving in the second world war.
And, did you know that one of the most popular candies today, Reeses peanut butter cups, has been around since 1928?
So, enjoy a piece of candy today while you enjoy your loved ones company, and when you want to celebrate further by decorating your home with love and art that happens to be you, give us a call so we can help, and enjoy a few images taken by Darcy, part of the team here at Songs of Life. The images were taken a local trick or treating event called Biz Boo!
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