Many happy returns of Grandma Martha
Grandma Martha is one of the most revered Bulgarian rites, which has been preserved from ancient times to the present day. This is a centuries-long Bulgarian tradition symbolizing the end of the winter and the coming spring. On the 1st March, everyone gives his or her relatives and friends a martenitsa – twisted red and whire threads – and makes a wish for health and happiness with the words: ” Many happy returns of Grandma Martha”.
The white woolen thread signifies long life, and the red one – health and strength. Later on a coin was also added to the token to protect people from illness and ailments. Martenitsas are worn until the first storks, swallows or cuckoos appear with the warmth of spring. People then untie their martenitsas and tie them on to a blooming fruit tree. A martenitsa tied to an object at home brings prosperity to the family and its farm.
Martenitsa horseshoe with clover - It brings luck and happyness to the house. Protect from evil eyes. It is placed next to or above the door and hampers luck from running away. As the saying goes, the devil keeps away from places, where a horseshoe can be found. Should a horseshoe be tied to the mast of the ship, above the door of its cabin, or placed under the deck, luck will inevitably accompany such a boat at sea.
