The original Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky was premiered in December 1892. It came out to bad reviews and Tchaikovsky considered it a failure. The critics thought the plot was clunky and were displeased that he had cast children in the main roles. Tchaikovsky died just one year later and never discovered that his ballet would become the most popular of all time.

The word “tennis” derives from the Anglo-Norman term, “tenez.” This means to “hold,” “receive,” or “take,” which is what a player, back in the 12th century, would have said to indicate his serve.

Advent wreaths have a long history. They were first used by pagans in northern Europe where an evergreen wreath was used to symbolize ongoing life and protection from the harsh winter. Over time the concept was reworked into the Christian tradition and the wreath came to symbolize the eternal rebirth of Jesus.