Bowel infections caused by viruses, bacteria and certain parasites frequently cause loose stools. Viral gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is a common cause of episodic diarrhea.
Yule or Yuletide (Yule time) was and is a festival observed by the historical Germanic peoples. Scholars have connected the celebration to the Wild Hunt, the god Odin, and the pagan Anglo-Saxon MÅdraniht. It later underwent Christianized reformulation resulting in the term Christmastide.
In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days.