XOXO: How Do You Spell Kisses and Hugs?

February 14 is Valentine's Day — and you might see XOXO scribbled on everything from greeting cards to text messages. But have you ever stopped to wonder why these two little symbols—an X and an O—are the lovebirds of the alphabet? 

Historically, XOXO has been around for centuries. Back in the Middle Ages, when literacy was rare, people would sign documents with an X as a stand-in for their name. 

Over time, this act of devotion evolved into the X symbolizing a kiss. Some even say it's because an X looks like two mouths meeting in a smooch! Can you see it?

Now, onto the O. This one's a bit more mysterious. No one really knows how this practice started. One theory traces it back to Jewish immigrants who avoided using the Christian-associated X and opted for an O instead. 

Over time, the O came to symbolize a hug. Why? Because if you use your imagination, an O looks like two arms encircling someone in an embrace. 

Now, put your X's and O'x together, and you've got XOXO: kisses and hugs, hugs and kisses. Today, people still sign letters with XOXO to express love and warmth, whether for romantic partners or friends and family members. 

And we ought to know! Your Uncle Goose handwrites zillions of gift cards, so we get lots of practice writing XOXO! Those X's and O's were like emojis before emojis were even invented! 

Now, let's get some XOXO practice reps in. Why not dig into your Uncle Goose blocks this February and find your Xs and Os?

Maybe you can even spell out other seasonal messages like "BE MY LOVE" and "BE KIND." Older kids can spell harder words and phrases like "BE MY VALENTINE." Adults can even rearrange their letters into something less wholesome (we're looking at you, V and D). 

It might even be a good time to discuss popular text misspellings like "UR CUTE" and "LUV U" with your children. It's fun to break spelling rules, but it's also important to know the rules before you break them! 

And of course, you'll want to use your blocks to leave little love notes around your home and office this February. After all, nothing shows whimsical appreciation like finding "XOXO" on your coffee table or "HOT STUFF" on your nightstand.

Happy February, and Happy Valentine's Day! XOXO!