Thread by @PaulGaskinCFS

Let's celebrate #ValentinesDay with a tribute to a love for #nature, trees, and forests! [A thread]

According to legend, the first ever Valentine’s letter, sent by the eponymous Saint, was written on a heart-shaped leaf that was just within reach outside his cell window somewhere in Rome. The leaf was from the violet flower – now the floral emblem of New Brunswick!

St. Valentine's Day became associated with love and romance in the Middle Ages. The tradition first started in France and England, where it was believed that birds started their mating season on February 14. Likely under the cover of the #forest…for privacy 😉

Depending on who you ask, #Cupid’s bow was made from bison horn or a piece of olive-wood (whittled from the club of Heracles). Either way, #forests played a big role in falling in love in ancient times.

Valentine's Day cards started to be mass-produced in North America in the 19th century. Nowadays, it is estimated that 40 million Valentine’s cards are sold throughout Canada. The #paper industry feels the #love!

Cards and envelopes are #recyclable if made exclusively from paper. In fact, some cards are made entirely from post-consumer recycled paper…so when the time comes, throw your love note in the proper bin instead of with the cinnamon hearts, which belong in the trash.

While a bouquet of roses is nice, its staying power is limited. So why not exchange these classics with something everlasting? @TreeCanada provides opportunities to buy seedlings and plant trees. Imagine giving or receiving a gift that has the potential to last generations!

For the anti-Valentine’s Day crowd, I haven’t forgotten about you on this, the most Hallmark of Holidays. Taking a mid-winter hike, either alone or with friends/family, is a great way to stay mentally and physically healthy...important whether or not you’re looking “fir” love.

Thanks for reading...and have a #HappyValentinesDay ♥️🌲🌳