Mary Lourdes Bonnici MBA

  DAY 71 — 71 DAYS TO CHRISTMAS The Snowflake — Why It Became Part of Christmas Imagery From atmospheric ice crystals to a worldwide festive symbol Mary Lourdes Bonnici MBA | Learning • Knowledge • Growth | 13 September 2026 Introduction: A natural object becomes a cultural symbol A snowflake is a natural formation of ice, but its stylised image has become a familiar Christmas decoration. It appears on windows, greeting cards, fabric, gift wrap and digital screens. This association was not established by one inventor. It developed through northern winter experiences, scientific illustration, artistic traditions, printed Christmas imagery and modern entertainment. Distinguishing these influences makes the symbol more interesting than the simple statement that Christmas happens in winter. The snowflake also raises a question of cultural perspective. Many people celebrate Christmas where December is warm, and some have never seen snow. Yet they recognise the same decorative pattern. T...

  🎄 DAY 86 • 86 DAYS TO CHRISTMAS Holly at Christmas — Evergreen Leaves and Winter Tradition Christmas Traditions, Stories & Festive Living A celebration of tradition, memory, culture, kindness and the timeless magic of Christmas. By Mary Lourdes Bonnici MBA 🌿 Introduction — An Evergreen Symbol of Christmas Among the colours and plants that define the traditional Christmas season, few are as instantly recognisable as holly . Its glossy green leaves and bright red berries appear on Christmas cards, wreaths, garlands, table decorations and festive illustrations. The familiar combination of deep green and brilliant red has become so closely associated with Christmas that holly can communicate the festive season almost without words. Yet holly is much more than an attractive Christmas decoration. Its story reaches back through centuries of winter customs, religious symbolism, folklore and changing domestic traditions. Its evergreen character made it particularly striking during ...

  🎄 DAY 89 • 89 DAYS TO CHRISTMAS The Advent Calendar — Opening a Little Door to Christmas By Mary Lourdes Bonnici A Tradition of Patience, Anticipation and Daily Joy Christmas Traditions, Stories & Festive Living A celebration of tradition, memory, culture, kindness and the timeless magic of Christmas. After yesterday’s journey into the Christmas Nativity Scene, Day 89 turns to another beloved tradition—one that transforms waiting into a daily ritual. The Advent calendar may look simple: twenty-four numbered doors, pockets, boxes or envelopes. Yet behind this familiar Christmas tradition lies a fascinating story about anticipation, childhood, faith and the human desire to make the journey toward Christmas meaningful. 1. What Is an Advent Calendar? An Advent calendar is traditionally used to count the days from 1 December to Christmas Eve, 24 December. Each day, one numbered section is opened. Depending on the calendar, it might reveal a picture, Bible verse...