National Cocoa Day on December 13 celebrates the warm comfort of hot cocoa, a drink whose roots stretch back thousands of years to the Olmecs and Mayans, who first cultivated cacao—the “food of the gods.” From Columbus introducing cocoa beans to Europe, to Spanish physicians praising its health benefits, to early American chocolate makers like John Hanan and Dr. James Baker refining it in the colonies, hot chocolate has long been a treasured treat. Today we enjoy it in countless varieties, topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate curls, yet its greatest sweetness may be how it brings people together. As we gather with loved ones and savor a warm cup, we’re reminded that God places us in families to learn joy, patience, and love—inviting us to strengthen our homes and relationships as part of His Story today.

Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/hot-chocolateday-6

This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine.

Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.

Gingerbread House Day, celebrated each year on December 12, honors a beloved Christmas tradition that began centuries ago with the arrival of gingerbread in Europe, brought by Gregory of Nicopolis in 992 AD. Over time, gingerbread became an art form—shaped into saints, royal portraits, and festive figures, eventually leading German bakers in the early 1800s to create the first decorated gingerbread houses inspired by the tale of Hansel and Gretel. Gingerbread later became a symbol of Christmas celebration worldwide, with intricate cottages, candies, and frosting turning simple dough into seasonal joy—highlighted even by record-breaking creations like the 67-foot-tall gingerbread house built in 2001. As we build our own gingerbread houses today, we’re reminded to spiritually build our homes as well, making them “a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, [and] a house of God” (D&C 88:119).

Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/gingerbread-house-7

This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine.

Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.

International Mountain Day highlights the beauty and importance of the world’s mountains, which cover about a quarter of Earth’s land and supply most of the planet’s fresh water. Mountains form through tectonic forces—folding, faulting, or volcanic activity—creating ranges like the Himalayas, Sierra Nevada, and Mount Fuji. They provide food, energy, clean air, recreation, and habitats for wildlife and people. This day encourages youth and communities to protect mountain environments and appreciate these “water towers of the world.” From hiking and learning local geology to sharing photos and stewardship efforts, it’s a reminder of how mountains inspire us to look upward and care for the earth.

Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/international-mountain-6

This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine.

Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.