A countdown to Christmas Day, typically represented by a calendar with 24 or 12 sequentially numbered windows or compartments, each concealing a small treat, toy, or devotional message. Variations based on the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol often feature compartments corresponding to each day mentioned in the song, potentially containing gifts related to the lyrics. These calendars serve as a tangible way to mark the passage of time leading to the holiday.
These calendars build anticipation for Christmas, particularly for children. They offer a daily dose of festive cheer and provide a fun, interactive element to the holiday season. Historically, the concept originated in the 19th century among German Protestants who marked the days leading up to Christmas. Over time, they evolved from simple chalk marks on doors to elaborate printed calendars. The modern iterations, featuring small gifts or treats, became popular in the early 20th century. The tie-in with the well-known carol adds another layer of cultural significance and recognition.
This exploration will further delve into various aspects of these festive calendars, from their historical development and cultural variations to their contemporary manifestations and DIY crafting possibilities. It will also address their commercial impact and evolving trends in design and content.
1. Christmas Countdown
The “Christmas Countdown” represents a core element of the advent calendar tradition, especially when connected to the “Twelve Days of Christmas” theme. It structures the anticipation leading to Christmas Day, transforming the wait into an active experience of daily reveals and growing excitement. This countdown provides a framework for understanding how these calendars enhance the festive period.
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Daily Ritual of Revelation
The countdown establishes a daily ritual centered around opening a designated compartment. This act, often performed with family, creates a shared moment of anticipation and discovery. The daily nature reinforces the passage of time toward Christmas and provides a tangible way to mark its approach. In the context of a “Twelve Days of Christmas” calendar, this daily ritual aligns with the unfolding narrative of the carol, creating a layered experience.
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Tangible Measurement of Time
Advent calendars, regardless of their specific theme, offer a tangible representation of the remaining time until Christmas. This physical embodiment of the countdown helps children, in particular, grasp the concept of time and eagerly anticipate the celebration. The numbered compartments provide a clear visual representation of the diminishing days, increasing the excitement as Christmas draws nearer.
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Thematic Connection to the Twelve Days
In a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar, the countdown specifically focuses on the twelve days following Christmas Day rather than the four weeks of Advent. This distinction creates a unique thematic experience where the calendar extends the celebration beyond Christmas Day itself. The daily reveals then correspond to the gifts mentioned in the carol, enriching the understanding and appreciation of the song’s narrative.
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Heightened Anticipation and Excitement
The countdown format intrinsically fosters heightened anticipation and excitement. Each passing day brings the recipient closer to the culmination of the countdown Christmas Day and the final reveal. This structured anticipation amplifies the joy and celebratory atmosphere of the holiday season, making the wait itself an enjoyable part of the Christmas experience.
The “Christmas Countdown” inherent in advent calendars, especially those themed around the “Twelve Days of Christmas,” transforms the anticipation of the holiday into a tangible and engaging experience. By incorporating a daily ritual, a physical representation of time, and a thematic connection to the carol, these calendars elevate the festive spirit and create lasting memories centered around shared anticipation and joy.
2. Twelve Days Focus
The “Twelve Days Focus” distinguishes these specific advent calendars from traditional Advent calendars. While standard Advent calendars mark the 24 days leading up to Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar centers on the twelve days following Christmas Day, as celebrated in the well-known carol. This shift in focus offers a distinct celebratory experience, extending the festive period and providing a framework for continued gift-giving and merriment beyond the main event. This distinction directly impacts the calendar’s design and content. Instead of culminating on Christmas Day, the calendar’s narrative unfolds over the subsequent twelve days, with each compartment potentially corresponding to a gift from the song.
The emphasis on the twelve days post-Christmas offers an opportunity to explore the symbolism and traditions associated with this period. Historically, the Twelve Days of Christmas held religious significance, representing the time between the birth of Christ and the arrival of the Magi. Modern celebrations often retain a festive atmosphere, with continued gatherings, entertainment, and gift-giving. A “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar facilitates this extended celebration by providing a daily focal point and a structured approach to gift-giving throughout the twelve days. For example, each compartment might contain a small ornament representing one of the gifts from the carol, reinforcing the song’s imagery and adding a layer of meaning to the daily reveal. This creates a tangible link between the calendar, the carol, and the broader cultural context of the Twelve Days of Christmas.
Understanding the “Twelve Days Focus” is crucial for appreciating the unique nature of these advent calendars. It underscores the deliberate shift from anticipating Christmas Day to savoring the extended festive period. The connection to the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol adds a layer of cultural and historical significance, enriching the experience beyond simple gift-giving. By aligning the calendar with the carol’s narrative, the “Twelve Days Focus” offers a structured and engaging way to celebrate and understand this unique period within the broader Christmas season. This focus strengthens the calendar’s thematic coherence and reinforces its connection to established traditions.
3. Daily Ritual
The “Daily Ritual” intrinsic to advent calendars, particularly those themed around the “Twelve Days of Christmas,” significantly contributes to their appeal and cultural impact. This daily interaction transforms the anticipation of Christmas from a passive wait into an active engagement with the festive season. Opening a numbered compartment each day establishes a predictable yet exciting routine, creating a sense of anticipation and providing a tangible way to mark the time leading up to and following Christmas Day, depending on the calendar’s focus.
The act of opening each compartment becomes a small ceremony, often shared with family members. This shared experience strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories associated with the holiday season. In the context of a “Twelve Days of Christmas” calendar, the daily ritual can be further enhanced by connecting the contents of each compartment to the corresponding gift in the carol. For instance, on the fifth day, a small representation of “five golden rings” could be included, reinforcing the carol’s narrative and creating a deeper engagement with the tradition. This creates an opportunity for discussion and learning about the symbolism associated with each gift, adding an educational dimension to the daily ritual. Imagine a family gathering each evening to open the calendar together, discussing the symbolism of “two turtle doves” or “eleven pipers piping,” fostering both a sense of tradition and an appreciation for cultural history.
The power of the “Daily Ritual” lies in its ability to transform the abstract concept of time into a concrete, engaging experience. This structured approach to anticipation enhances the enjoyment of the Christmas season, making the wait itself a meaningful part of the celebration. Furthermore, by connecting the daily ritual to the narrative of the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol, these calendars deepen cultural understanding and create a richer, more engaging festive experience. Challenges may include maintaining the daily practice amid busy schedules or adapting the ritual for individuals celebrating alone. However, the core value of the “Daily Ritual” remains: it transforms a passive wait into an active celebration, fostering anticipation, creating shared experiences, and enriching the cultural significance of the Christmas season.
4. Symbolic Gifts
The incorporation of “Symbolic Gifts” within a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar elevates the tradition beyond simple gift-giving. These symbolic representations, often miniature versions of the gifts mentioned in the carol, enhance the calendar’s connection to the song’s narrative and offer opportunities for deeper engagement with its cultural and historical context. This connection transforms the daily ritual of opening the calendar into an exploration of the symbolism embedded within each gift.
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Connection to the Carol
The most prominent aspect of symbolic gifts is their direct link to the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol. Each gift within the calendar corresponds to a specific item mentioned in the song, from “a partridge in a pear tree” to “twelve drummers drumming.” This connection reinforces the carol’s narrative, making it a tangible and interactive experience. Calendars might include miniature ornaments, charms, or small figurines representing each gift. This tangible link deepens understanding and appreciation of the carol, transforming it from a passively sung tune into an actively explored narrative.
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Layered Symbolism
Many of the gifts in the carol carry symbolic meanings, often rooted in religious or historical contexts. For example, the “two turtle doves” are sometimes interpreted as representing the Old and New Testaments, while the “five golden rings” may symbolize the first five books of the Bible. Including symbolic representations of these gifts within the advent calendar creates opportunities to explore these deeper meanings, enriching the festive experience with cultural and historical context.
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Educational Opportunity
The inclusion of symbolic gifts provides an educational platform, particularly for children. The daily unveiling of a new gift can spark conversations about its symbolism and historical significance. This interactive learning experience transforms the advent calendar into a tool for cultural exploration and understanding. Parents or educators can leverage this opportunity to discuss the origins of the carol, the meaning of the twelve days, and the historical context of the gifts themselves.
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Enhanced Festive Experience
Symbolic gifts contribute to a richer, more engaging festive experience. Beyond the simple pleasure of receiving a small gift, the symbolic connection to the carol adds a layer of meaning and anticipation. The daily ritual of uncovering a new symbol becomes an act of discovery, connecting the recipient to the broader cultural traditions surrounding the Twelve Days of Christmas. This enhances the celebratory atmosphere and fosters a deeper appreciation for the holiday season.
By connecting the tangible act of opening the advent calendar with the symbolic meanings of the gifts within, the “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar becomes more than a countdown; it becomes a journey of exploration and discovery, enriching the festive season with cultural significance, historical context, and shared experiences.
5. Carol Connection
The “Carol Connection” forms the foundational link between the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol and its corresponding advent calendars. This connection transforms a simple countdown calendar into a narrative experience, enriching the tradition with cultural significance and historical context. The carol provides the thematic framework for the calendar, shaping its design, content, and overall experience. This intrinsic link distinguishes these calendars from generic advent calendars, imbuing them with a specific narrative arc derived directly from the song’s lyrics.
The carol’s structure dictates the calendar’s organization. Twelve compartments, representing the twelve days, often contain gifts corresponding to each verse. This alignment creates a daily ritual of discovery that mirrors the unfolding narrative of the song. For example, the fifth compartment might contain a representation of “five golden rings,” reinforcing the carol’s imagery and creating a tangible connection between the physical calendar and the lyrical narrative. Furthermore, the carol’s repetitive structure, with each verse building upon the previous one, is reflected in the calendar’s cumulative nature. As each day passes, the collection of gifts grows, mirroring the accumulating gifts in the song. This parallel structure creates a sense of anticipation and reinforces the connection between the calendar and the carol.
Understanding the “Carol Connection” is crucial for appreciating the unique nature of these advent calendars. It moves beyond a simple countdown to Christmas, offering a deeper engagement with a beloved holiday tradition. The calendar becomes a tangible manifestation of the carol, providing a daily opportunity to interact with its narrative and explore its symbolism. Challenges arise in adapting the carol’s sometimes complex imagery into appropriate gifts for each compartment, requiring creative interpretation and thoughtful design. Nevertheless, the “Carol Connection” remains central to the experience, enriching the festive season with a blend of anticipation, tradition, and cultural significance. It offers a dynamic interplay between a familiar song and a tangible object, transforming a passive listening experience into an active celebration of a cherished Christmas tradition.
6. Festive Anticipation
Festive anticipation forms a core element of the holiday season, and “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars play a significant role in shaping and amplifying this experience. These calendars provide a structured framework for building excitement and marking the passage of time, transforming the wait into an active and engaging process. This exploration delves into the multifaceted relationship between festive anticipation and these unique advent calendars.
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Structured Countdown
The calendar’s structure, with its twelve sequentially numbered compartments, provides a tangible countdown to Christmas Day and through the subsequent twelve days. This structured approach to anticipation allows for a daily ritual of opening a new compartment, creating a sense of progression and increasing excitement as the holiday season unfolds. Each opened compartment signifies not only the passage of a day but also the approach of cherished traditions and celebrations. This structured countdown transforms a potentially amorphous wait into a series of discrete, manageable steps, each marked by a small reward or symbolic representation.
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Daily Ritual and Reward
The daily ritual of opening a compartment creates a predictable yet exciting routine. The anticipation of discovering the hidden treat, small gift, or symbolic item within each compartment adds a layer of enjoyment to the countdown. This daily dose of festive cheer reinforces the celebratory atmosphere and maintains a consistent level of excitement throughout the twelve days. This daily interaction with the calendar transforms the anticipation from a passive waiting period into an active engagement with the holiday season. Whether the reward is a small toy, a piece of chocolate, or a symbolic representation of a gift from the carol, the daily ritual sustains and amplifies festive anticipation.
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Thematic Resonance with the Carol
The connection to the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol enhances the experience of festive anticipation. The calendar’s design and contents often align with the carol’s narrative, creating a deeper engagement with its themes and symbolism. The daily reveals become linked to the familiar imagery of the song, enriching the anticipation with cultural and historical context. This thematic resonance strengthens the calendar’s connection to established traditions and creates a shared cultural experience. The familiar tune and imagery of the carol amplify the sense of anticipation, connecting the calendar to broader cultural celebrations and collective memory.
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Extension of Festivities
Unlike traditional Advent calendars that culminate on Christmas Day, “Twelve Days of Christmas” calendars extend the festive period. This continuation of celebrations amplifies the overall sense of anticipation and joy, transforming the period following Christmas from a potential letdown into a continued celebration. The calendar provides a framework for sustained engagement with the festive spirit, offering a daily reminder of the ongoing celebration. This extended period of anticipation and celebration reinforces the importance of family traditions and shared experiences, fostering a sense of togetherness that extends beyond Christmas Day itself.
These interwoven facets demonstrate how “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars contribute significantly to festive anticipation. By structuring the countdown, establishing a daily ritual, resonating with a familiar carol, and extending the festivities, these calendars transform the wait into an active and engaging celebration of the holiday season. They provide a framework for experiencing the joy and excitement of Christmas in a tangible and meaningful way, fostering a deeper appreciation for both the cultural traditions and the shared experiences that define the season.
7. Family Tradition
The “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar frequently becomes interwoven with family traditions, enriching the holiday season with shared experiences and creating lasting memories. Establishing a daily ritual around opening the calendar fosters a sense of anticipation and togetherness. Families often gather each evening to unveil the day’s compartment, transforming this simple act into a cherished moment of connection. This shared experience strengthens family bonds, providing a consistent activity that everyone can enjoy together, regardless of age. The calendar’s structure, tied to the familiar carol, offers a framework for this daily ritual, ensuring its consistent integration into the family’s holiday routine. One family might incorporate singing the corresponding verse of the carol after opening each compartment, while another might share stories related to the symbolic gift revealed. These personalized additions further solidify the calendar’s role as a unique family tradition.
The act of selecting and preparing a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar itself can become a family tradition. Some families opt for handcrafted calendars, personalizing each compartment with carefully chosen treats or small gifts. This collaborative effort strengthens family bonds and allows for creative expression. Children might participate in decorating the calendar or selecting the items to be placed inside, fostering a sense of ownership and excitement. The tradition may also extend to passing down handcrafted calendars through generations, creating a tangible link to past Christmases and reinforcing family history. Even the simple act of purchasing a calendar together and deciding where to display it can become a meaningful family ritual, marking the beginning of the festive season. These shared experiences contribute to a sense of continuity and shared identity, strengthening the family unit during a time often centered around togetherness.
Integrating a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar into family traditions offers significant benefits. It provides a structured activity that fosters connection, creates lasting memories, and reinforces shared values. The calendar’s link to a beloved carol and the symbolism of the twelve days adds a layer of cultural significance, enriching the family’s understanding and appreciation of the holiday season. Challenges can arise in adapting the tradition to evolving family dynamics or accommodating individual preferences. However, the core value of shared experience and the reinforcement of family bonds remains a powerful motivator for establishing and maintaining this tradition. The “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar, through its structured daily ritual and its connection to a familiar cultural narrative, serves as a valuable tool for strengthening family traditions and enriching the experience of the holiday season.
8. Cultural Significance
Cultural significance, in the context of “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars, extends beyond mere commercialization. These calendars represent a convergence of religious observance, folk traditions, and contemporary consumerism, creating a rich tapestry of meaning. Examining these interwoven elements reveals a deeper understanding of these calendars’ place within broader cultural practices and holiday celebrations.
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Religious Roots
The “Twelve Days of Christmas” originate from a period of religious observance commemorating the birth of Christ and the visit of the Magi. While modern celebrations often emphasize secular aspects, the historical roots remain influential. Advent calendars, whether intentionally or not, connect to this historical context, providing a tangible link to centuries-old traditions. The symbolism embedded within the twelve gifts, such as the “partridge in a pear tree” representing Christ, reinforces this connection.
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Folk Traditions and the Carol
The “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol, with its cumulative verses and symbolic gifts, represents a significant element of folk tradition. The carol’s widespread popularity has contributed to the advent calendar’s cultural resonance. The calendar serves as a physical manifestation of the carol’s narrative, reinforcing its place in popular culture. Regional variations in the carol’s interpretation and the corresponding calendar contents further highlight the interplay between folk tradition and personalized expression.
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Contemporary Consumerism
The modern manifestation of “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars reflects contemporary consumerist trends. The focus on gift-giving and material objects can overshadow the original religious and folk significance. However, this commercialization also contributes to the calendar’s widespread availability and accessibility. The market offers a diverse range of calendars, from simple chocolate-filled versions to elaborate handcrafted designs, reflecting varying levels of engagement with consumer culture.
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Family and Communal Rituals
The act of using an advent calendar often becomes integrated into family or communal rituals. The daily opening of compartments creates a shared experience, fostering a sense of anticipation and togetherness. This ritualistic aspect strengthens social bonds and contributes to the calendar’s cultural significance, embedding it within the fabric of family traditions and holiday celebrations. The shared anticipation and daily discussions surrounding the calendar’s contents create lasting memories and reinforce communal values associated with the holiday season.
The cultural significance of “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars emerges from a complex interplay of historical context, folk traditions, contemporary consumerism, and evolving family rituals. Understanding these interwoven elements offers a richer appreciation for these calendars, transforming them from simple countdown devices into meaningful symbols of cultural heritage and shared experience within the broader context of the Christmas season.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars, providing clarity and dispelling potential misconceptions.
Question 1: How does a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar differ from a traditional Advent calendar?
Traditional Advent calendars mark the 24 days leading up to Christmas Day. “Twelve Days of Christmas” calendars, however, focus on the twelve days following Christmas, as celebrated in the carol. This distinction results in different starting and ending dates and often incorporates thematic elements related to the song.
Question 2: What types of gifts are typically included in these calendars?
Gifts vary widely, ranging from small chocolates and candies to miniature ornaments, beauty products, or small toys. Calendars designed around the carol may feature items representing the gifts mentioned in the song, such as miniature rings, birds, or drummers.
Question 3: Are these calendars exclusively for children?
While children often enjoy these calendars, they are not exclusively for them. Many variations cater to adults, featuring items like gourmet food, high-quality cosmetics, or themed collectibles. The inherent appeal of a daily treat or surprise transcends age demographics.
Question 4: What is the historical significance of the twelve days after Christmas?
Historically, the Twelve Days of Christmas held religious significance, representing the time between the birth of Christ and the arrival of the Magi. This period evolved into a season of continued celebration and festivity, reflected in the traditions associated with the carol.
Question 5: Are these calendars reusable?
Reusability depends on the calendar’s construction. Some calendars feature permanent compartments that can be refilled annually, promoting sustainability. Others are designed for single-use. Consumers seeking reusable options should examine product descriptions carefully.
Question 6: Where can these calendars be purchased?
Retail options range from online marketplaces and specialty stores to department stores and local boutiques. Availability increases as the holiday season approaches. Handcrafted options are also frequently available through artisan platforms or local craft fairs.
Understanding the nuances of “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars enhances appreciation for their unique contribution to holiday traditions. Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions assists consumers in selecting a calendar that aligns with their specific interests and preferences.
The following section will explore the diverse variations and themes available in “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendars, providing insights into their design, content, and intended audiences.
Tips for Selecting and Utilizing a Twelve Days of Christmas Advent Calendar
Careful consideration enhances the experience derived from a themed advent calendar. These tips offer guidance for selecting and utilizing a calendar effectively.
Tip 1: Align Theme with Recipient’s Interests: Consider the recipient’s hobbies and preferences when selecting a calendar. Themed calendars focusing on specific interests, such as gourmet food, beauty products, or specific characters, maximize enjoyment.
Tip 2: Evaluate Calendar Construction and Quality: Durability and aesthetic appeal contribute to the overall experience. Sturdy construction ensures the calendar withstands daily handling. High-quality materials enhance the perceived value and contribute to a more satisfying experience.
Tip 3: Consider Reusability and Sustainability: Opting for a refillable calendar minimizes environmental impact and allows for continued use in future years. Repurposing a well-constructed calendar adds value and reduces waste.
Tip 4: Establish a Daily Ritual: Enhance the experience by incorporating the calendar into a daily routine. A consistent time and designated location for opening each compartment amplifies anticipation and creates a shared family experience.
Tip 5: Explore the Symbolism: Engage with the deeper meaning associated with the twelve gifts. Research the historical and cultural context of each item to enrich understanding and appreciation for the tradition.
Tip 6: Personalize the Experience: Add personal touches to the calendar. Handwritten notes, small additional gifts, or shared stories related to the daily reveal personalize the experience and strengthen family connections.
Tip 7: Extend the Celebration: Utilize the calendar as a springboard for extended festivities. Plan activities or outings related to the daily theme, amplifying the celebratory atmosphere and creating lasting memories.
Careful planning and thoughtful utilization maximize the enjoyment and significance of a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar. These tips ensure a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
The concluding section will summarize the key benefits and lasting impact of incorporating a “Twelve Days of Christmas” advent calendar into holiday traditions.
Conclusion
Advent calendar 12 days of Christmas traditions offer a rich tapestry of cultural significance, blending historical observance with contemporary celebration. This exploration highlighted the multifaceted nature of these calendars, examining their connection to the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol, the symbolism embedded within the daily gifts, and the impact on family traditions. The structured countdown, combined with the daily ritual of unveiling a new compartment, fosters anticipation and strengthens family bonds. Furthermore, the incorporation of symbolic gifts provides opportunities for deeper engagement with the cultural and historical context of the twelve days following Christmas Day. The examination of various calendar styles, from traditional to modern iterations, underscores their adaptability and enduring appeal across diverse demographics. The potential challenges of commercialization and maintaining the core values of the tradition were also addressed, emphasizing the importance of mindful selection and utilization.
Advent calendar 12 days of Christmas traditions represent a dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and personal expression. Thoughtful engagement with these traditions offers a pathway for enriching the holiday season, fostering deeper connections with loved ones, and perpetuating meaningful celebrations for generations to come. The enduring appeal of these calendars lies in their ability to transform a simple countdown into a cherished ritual, imbued with symbolism, anticipation, and shared joy. Further exploration of regional variations and evolving trends within advent calendar 12 days of Christmas traditions promises continued insights into their dynamic role in contemporary holiday celebrations.
