Black Friday

I know I have been missing in action around here but I can't skip my world famous Black Friday post! 

Today is Black Friday!  That fun time of year where we push our credit cards to the limit! This is a great day for you to get in a workout by trying to snag that big screen TV! Try not to get into any fights! And if you want to be the first one into the store, why not camp there overnight! 

The day after Thanksgiving is known as Black Friday and has always been known as the biggest shopping day of the year. For retailers, it marked the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. In recent years, every Friday in November was a Black Friday Sale. This year, the entire month seems to be a Black Friday event. 

For those of you working on Black Friday, it's a crazy, long tiring day. Make sure you take those vitamins, drink plenty of water and plaster a smile on your face.  

If you are out there shopping, it can get crazy, so try to be safe. Also, be nice to the retail workers.  They don't make the rules or have control over the amount of inventory for that Billy Bass you want to purchase.  So, go easy on them! 

Of course you will need a little background music for this special day. Here is my Black Friday playlist for your listening pleasure. 

Man in Black - Johnny Cash

Paint it Black -  The Rolling Stones

Back in Black - AC DC

Black Cat - Janet Jackson

Black Magic Woman - Santana

Black or White - Michael Jackson 

Black Widow - Iggy Azalea

Black Hole Sun- Soundgarden

Black - Pearl Jam 

Blackbird - The Beatles

Black Betty - Ram Jam

 Black Gold -Soul Asylum 

Men in Black 3 Back in Time - Pitbull

Black Night- Deep Purple

Black Rain Soundgarden

The Long Black Veil - JohnnyCash

Ebony and Ivory - McCartney and Wonder

Black Dog - Led Zeppelin 

Black Velvet- Alannah Miles

Black Water - Doobie Brothers 

Men in Black - Will Smith

Blue on Black Five Finger Death Punch

Back to Black - Amy Winehouse

Fade to Black - Metallica

Black Horse and the Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall

Two Black Cadillacs- Carrie Underwood

Black Honey - Thrice

Black Rose - Volbeat

Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress - The Hollies

Now get out there and have some fun!

National Card and Letter Writing Month

  April is National Card and Letter Writing Month.

I mean, who doesn't love getting a handwritten letter in the mail?  I know that's the first piece of mail I open.  A handwritten letter is a lot better than opening up a bill.

It's time for you to get out all of that pretty paper and cards that you are saving for a special occasion.  Now is the time to use it!  And don't worry if you don't have pretty paper.  Grab some paint, stickers, washi tape, crayons, or markers and create your own artistic paper.

Letter writing is also a great way to practice your penmanship (I think we all need the extra practice). Don't worry about bad handwriting.  Loved ones know you and your bad  handwriting and they still love hearing from you.

Don't know what to say?  How about starting off with "Hi" or "Hello"?    Maybe tell them what you have been doing with your time.  Instead of wishing a friend or family a happy birthday on social media, how about sending them a physical card?  You can write a few lines in the card wishing them a happy birthday or just to let them know that you are thinking about them.   You can even send a "just because" note or card letting them know that you appreciate them.

By the way, this would be an excellent idea for a Girl Scout Troop!  Have the girls write letters to some of the seniors at a retirement home.  This gives the girls practice at their writing and communicating skills and also brings a smile to the recipients.  Who knows?  Maybe they will write back!

 
What are you waiting for???   Grab your pens and paper and start writing!

Valentine's Day Craft Ideas

  It's finally February!  A time for love, hearts and all things red!  Oh, and it's also time for my favorite holiday, Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day, also known in our house as the National Holiday, is coming up and I thought I would put links to some crafts we have done here on A Scary Journey Inside My Life to get you ready for the big day. Some of these crafts are pretty easy and would be great to do with your Girl Scout Troop!  These are also great ideas for an indoor activity on those cold winter days.

Valentine's Placemat (children's craft)

Valentine's Day Bookmarks

Pallet (he)art

Homemade Valentine's Day cards

Felt Heart Pin or Barrette

Felt Heart Ornaments 

Valentine Photo Book

Valentine Love Picture

Valentine Love Frame

Looking for more fun things to do in February?  How about warming up the house (and some hearts) with some baking?  Check out the Recipes page to try something new!

National Months - December

We made it a whole year of looking at the National Month long holidays!  December is up with Christmas, Hanukkah and New Years. I found a few more holidays that we can celebrate.  Let's get started!

National Tie Month

Do people still wear neck ties?  Are they still the "go to" gift for dads?  I do find the "tie that blocks a 9mm bullet from piercing your skin" rather interesting, though.  Well, if you find yourself wearing a tie, why not post it on social media #NationalTieMonth.  And if you have a tie that blocks a bullet, let me know in the comments.

Bingo's Birthday Month

B-I-N-G-O and BINGO was his name - o.  We are celebrating the game this month, not the song.  BINGO was first played in Italy in 1530.  The game made it's way to American in 1929 and was called Beano (not to be confused with the product that prevents gas).  The name was changed to Bingo and was used as a church fundraiser in the 1930's.

Operation Santa Paws  

December is a time of giving, so why not donate to your local animal shelter.  A new blanket, dog or cat toys, dog or cat food, kitty litter or some treats.  Contact your local animal shelter for a list of items they need.  Use #OperationSantaPaws on social media to spread the word.

I had a great time discovering all of the fun holidays that are being celebrated.  Thanks for playing along this year with the National Months!  

National Months - November

 Once again, we have quite a few scary weird fun holidays to celebrate all month long.  

Let's get started!

At the top of our list.... it's

World Vegan Month

An entire month dedicated to vegans.  There are lots of exciting vegan products out there (food, beauty, clothing).  There are also a lot of vegan recipes out there for you to give a try this month (even some on the blog, just click on recipes).  Some reasons people go vegan:  to save the animals (because of poor treatment of animals on farms and the actual killing of the animals), to save the environment ("animal agriculture takes a toll on the earth by contaminating aquatic ecosystems, soil and more"), and for their health (animal fats and proteins are linked to colon cancer and heart health among other diseases).  

it's also

National Noshavember

Learned something new about No Shave November.  Apparently, this was started to raise awareness for cancer.  Any money that you would normally spend on haircuts or facial grooming was to be donated to a cancer research charity.  Don't forget to share those hairy pictures on social media, #NoShaveNovember. 

National Pomegranate Month

Pomegranates are packed with many nutrients like, protein, fiber, Vitamins C and K, folate and potassium.  They also are a beautiful and tasty fruit and this happens to be pomegranate season.  Check out Greek Mythology and the story of Demeter and her daughter, Persephone for an interesting take on the effects of pomegranate seeds. 

National Pepper Month

Great time to try out the world's hottest new pepper, Pepper X.  I'll stick to peppers that don't burn the inside of my mouth (and stomach).  Add this fruit (yea, peppers are fruit because of the seeds) to all of your dishes.   I love adding them to salads for extra color and crunch.

 

National Peanut Butter Lovers Month

Great time to celebrate our love for all things peanut butter.  Check under recipes on the blog for some peanut butter recipes.  Better yet, just type peanut butter on the search bar.  I'm sure Pippen would love to participate this month.  Peanut butter is his favorite.

and, finally, it is 

National Gratitude Month

A month of being thankful.  Let others know that you appreciate their friendship.  Give back to your neighbors and community.   It's also a great time to start that gratitude journal.  How about just journaling for the month of November?  Just by writing down what you are grateful for helps you look at the world in a positive way.    

Looks like a fun month ahead.  Get out there and celebrate all month long!

National Months - October

 Looks like we have a lot to celebrate this month.  

Let's get started!

National Pet CBD Month

CBD products are becoming quite popular to use with pets.  Some of the products include: tinctures, treats, peanut butter and topicals.  THC free options are the way to go for our furry friends.  I have a feeling my weird dog will be participating this month.

National World Menopause Month

A whole month dedicated to hot flashes, night sweats and trouble sleeping.  You can share your sweating on social media with #MenopauseMonth.  Sounds like a good time.

Wishbones for Pets Month

This is a time where animal lovers raise money for pet charities.  It's set around the holidays to remind us to keep the animals in mind during this season.  How to help?  Donate to your local animal shelters.  Often times the shelters have wish lists online to make giving easier.

Squirrel Awareness Month

I really think this one was set up for RT for his favorite squirrel, Nutty (Nutty is the screen saver on RT's phone).  If you want to learn more about squirrels Nutty, give RT a call.

National Sarcastic Awareness Month

Best to participate around people with a sense of humor.  #SarcasticAwarenessMonth 

National Pretzel Month

I love pretzels.  Great time of year to make my Pretzel Bites.  Serve them with your favorite mustard, makes it the perfect snack for watching a football game.

National Popcorn Poppin' Month

I love popcorn more than pretzels, though.  The perfect snack for any occasion.  Watching movies or sports or just for a healthy snack.  I think I'll go make some popcorn now.

National Pizza Month

This works out perfectly if you ask your brother over to make pizza for you.  Maybe have him make several pizzas and you can invite the entire family over for a pizza party!

National Pickled Peppers Month

Probably sponsored by Peter Piper.

National Cookie Month

A great time to get your body ready for the cookies over the holiday season.  If you are making cookies and need some inspiration, check out the "Recipes" link on the side of the blog.  There are some fun cookie ideas under "Desserts."

Vegetarian Month

Even if you are a meat eater, this is a great time to give vegetarianism a try.  Even for just a day or two.  There are so many great recipes out there.  And, before you chime in with, "Meat is essential in your diet" response, read on first.  A vegetarian diet is high in antioxidants and vitamins.  Eating meat supports heart health.  Cutting out meat helps reduce your risk of diabetes.  If done correctly, you can still get plenty of protein on a vegetarian diet.  Why not plan a meatless meal this week?

Have a great month!

National Months - September

 Time to look ahead and see what fun holidays we will be celebrating next month.

Here we go!

National Sourdough September

This is a great time for you to make some sourdough bread and share it with your favorite sister.  I will expect a fresh, homemade loaf of bread every week.  Thank you.

It's also

National Square Dance Month

This is a great month to put to use all of that time spent square dancing in PE class back in junior high.  It's a good thing this was part of our curriculum.  Where would we be without those awkward square dance lessons?

National Mushroom Month

This one is for RT, a fun guy interested in fungi.  I believe a trip to the mushroom festival in Kennett Square, PA, the mushroom capital of the world, is in the future.   Mushrooms are an excellent source of copper, fiber, potassium, protein, selenium, vitamin B and zinc.  How to observe?  Drop some in your soup, add them to your pizza, sauté them in some wine as a side dish.  

National Sewing Month

Apparently sewing has always been around in some shape or form.  In the early days, bone and ivory were used as needles.  The process became a lot easier, thanks to the invention of the sewing machine in 1750.  I'm feeling the need to pull out the sewing machine and try to make something.  Do you like to sew?  Do you prefer to sew by hand or use a sewing machine?

National Rice Month

A little strange, since there is a rice shortage due to floods, drought and severe weather and the price is skyrocketing.  

National Courtesy Month

To some, courtesy means kindness.  To others it can mean being polite or having good manners.  It can be spoken or actions toward someone.  Courtesy is about manners and respect.  It takes little effort to be kind.  The entire month of September gives you plenty of time to practice kindness.  Henry James once wrote, "Three things in human life are important.  The first is to be kind.  The second is to be kind.  And the third is to be kind."

National Self Improvement Month    

An entire month set aside for us to make a conscious effort to improve ourselves.  What would you like to improve in your life?  Healthier eating habits, add some exercise to your daily routine, learn a new skill or read more.  Set a goal and get started today!

National Classical Music Month

This holiday recognizes the beauty of classical music.  How to celebrate:  Listen to classical music (either alone or with friends).  Attend a local concert (most towns have local bands that perform).  Learn to play a musical instrument.  

Lots of fun happening this month!

National Months - August

 It's that time again.  Time to see what crazy month long holiday we will be celebrating in August.

Here we go:

Dog Month

Well, this is a given in our house.  I think every day and every month should be National Dog Month. There are scientific studies that prove that dogs make us happier, less stressed and more optimistic.  The companionship and love we share make their lives better, too.  How to celebrate #NationalDogMonth:  go for a nice long walk (with your dog, of course), give Fido an extra treat, play fetch or donate to a local animal shelter.  Grab your leash, Pippen, we are going for a walk!

Happiness Happens Month

A month dedicated to the pursuit of happiness.  Happiness is a choice.  It is not a lifelong destination but a lifelong pursuit.  Enjoy everything and anything that makes you happy.  Choose to be happy.  Find the happy moments in your life and post to social media #HappinessHappensMonth.

National Golf Month

I mean, I've talked about Golf a lot on this blog, so, I think we should celebrate it this month....by not watching it on television.  If you must celebrate, a game of mini golf is acceptable.

Which holiday are you going to celebrate this month?

National Months - July

 Time for another edition of, "What crazy holiday is being celebrated all month long?"

Let's just dive right in.

National Anti-Boredom Month 

Set aside to find out why we are bored and to find ways to fight it.  Sometimes we say we are bored, but that isn't always the case.  Sometimes we have a lot to do, but the task doesn't stimulate our brain or is repetitive.  In order to not form bad habits, we need to find creative ways to beat our boredom.  Some suggestions:  Play board or card games, get some exercise, clean, cook or bake, or socialize.  If you need some more suggestions, check out the I'm Bored List on the blog.

National Peach Month

I picked this one so I could tell you about the peach tree that I have in our yard.  We planted it a few years ago and it finally has some peaches growing on it!  I have no idea what kind of peach tree it is, but I do hope the peaches are delicious!  I'll let you know when and if they ripen.

National Ice Cream Month

I SCREAM!  YOU SCREAM!  WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM!!!   With all of the heat, this is a perfect month to celebrate this holiday!   Apparently, ice cream dates back to 54-68 AD, with people harvesting ice and flavoring it for Emperor Nero to enjoy.  Ice cream first appeared in the states in 1744.  And in the summer of 1790, George Washington spent over $200 on ice cream (I wonder if it was cherry flavored?).  The first hand crank ice cream maker was in 1843.  And in 1851, the first ice cream factory was built.  Some fun facts:  Vanilla is the most popular flavor (I guess my grandparents were right), the ice cream soda was invented in 1874, it takes about 50 licks to finish an ice cream cone (someone had too much time on his hands to figure that one out) and California produces the most ice cream in the US.  You can double celebrate on July 19, since it is National Ice Cream Day.  What is your favorite ice cream flavor?

National Blueberry Month 

I plan on going blueberry picking this month in Michigan just so I can celebrate this great national month long holiday.

National Hemp Month

This month gives us the chance to discover the usefulness of hemp for us and our environment.  Hemp provides an all natural, eco friendly fiber with many applications: paper, clothing and hempcrete.  As a crop it cleans pollutants from the soil.  And also provides a rich source of CBD.  Apparently, George Washington and Thomas Jefferson grew hemp.  It was a crop Britain required the colonists to grow.  This is a great time to check out the growing list of hemp products out there (clothing, hempcrete, hemp seed oil, hemp rope and hemp extracts.

Looks like it's going to be a fun month!

National Months - June

 Interesting national months for June.

Here we go!

National Pollinator's Month 

It's all about the bees!  Make a space in your yard for a pollinator garden.  Choose plants native to your area.  Make sure to choose bright flowers.  Color and scent attract bees to your garden.  

National Iced Tea Month

Sipping on iced tea is a great way to cool off on a hot, sunny day.  Sun tea, sweet tea and unsweetened tea.  Which is your favorite?

National Great Outdoors Month

This holiday encourages us to explore nature, wildlife refuges and parks.  Hike, bike, kayak, camp.  It's time to get outside and explore!

National Candy Month

What a sweet way to start the month!  Milk Duds, $100,000 bar, Hershey's Chocolate Bar, Snickers, Salt Water Taffy, Mints, Smarties, Zots, Candy Corn, Coke Bottles, Razzles, Fun Dip, Gummy Bears, Jawbreaker, M & M's, etc.  I remember getting Sno-Caps when we went to the movies.  What's your favorite candy?

National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month

Farmer's Markets are starting up.  Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables and you can add some color to your meals.  Take advantage of the berry picking season (I think strawberry and blueberry season are upon us).  

National Fight the Filthy Fly Month

No, it's not about getting into a ring and boxing a fly.  This holiday raises awareness about the diseases that flies carry.  Flies make themselves at home in uncovered food, garbage and moisture.  And they love the warmer months.  Some ways you can "Fight the fly":  fly swatter, bug zappers and glue trappers.  Make sure all garbage cans are covered and there are no puddles around your home.  Lavender, mint, basil and wormwood are known to deter flies when planted around your garden. Some facts about flies that you don't really want to know:  female flies can lay up to 500 eggs in a lifetime, there are more that 120,000 flies in the world with more that have not been recorded.  I think I've been pestered enough by flies.  What about you?

Which holidays will you celebrate this month?

National Months - May

 It's my favorite time.  Interesting National Month celebrations in May.  

Here we go!

National Correct Your Posture Month

This month encourages us to take a long look at how we align our bodies in our everyday activities.  Poor posture can cause bone and joint issues and lead to headaches, injury and circulatory issues.  How to celebrate?  If you work at a desk all day, make sure you get up and move every thirty minutes.  Oh and make sure to strengthen your core muscles.  (I'm trying to sit up straight as I type this post)

National Moving Month

May happens to be the busiest month for moving.  Home sales are up during this time and people are on the move.  I'm hoping to be one of those people.....someday.

National Military Appreciation Month

The month celebrates active duty, guard and reserve members and veteran service members.  Several holidays honoring our men and women in uniform are in May.  Loyalty Day, VE Day, Armed Forces Day, Military Spouses Day and Memorial Day.  How to observe #MilitaryAppreciationMonth?  Thank military personnel and veterans for their service.  Share your experience in the military.  Support veteran causes like Honor Flights and Disabled American Veterans.

 National Mediterranean Diet Month

The Mediterranean diet consists of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy oils.  Throw in some fish or chicken to the menu and limit red meat to a couple times a month.  An occasional glass of red wine and lots of exercise.  This sounds so familiar.  I think I grew up on this diet?

National Salsa Month

Salsa means sauce in Spanish.  While we think of tomato, onion, pepper and cilantro as salsa, fruits and other vegetables can also be made into salsas.  This is a chance to step out of your comfort zone and make some new and exciting salsas this month.

National Recommitment Month

Gives us the opportunity to evaluate the important areas of our life and to refocus.  We make goals throughout our life and sometimes we get off track.  This is the time to sit down and see how we are doing.  Make adjustments in our life or maybe change our goals.

National Date Your Mate Month

You have thirty one days this month, why not use them to add a little spark to your relationship.  Remember what attracted you in the first place?  Revisit the spot where you had your first date.  Maybe plan a picnic.  Try something new together (karaoke, hang gliding).   Use #DateYourMate on Social media.

Looks like a fun month ahead!  How will you participate?

National Months - April

 Fun national months for April, here we go!

National Afternoon Tea Month 

Afternoon tea is a ritual that started over 200 years ago in the United Kingdom.  Of course, due to the high price of tea, only the upper class enjoyed this ritual.  Afternoon tea consists of light finger sandwiches, scones, small cakes and, of course, tea.  How to celebrate?  Hold an afternoon tea at your home with your friends.  Visit a tea house near you.  Or, how about trying that new Boba place around the corner?

National Canine Fitness Month

Good thing I'm taking my weird dog Pippen on his daily walks.

National Cannabis Awareness Month

This day is set aside to shine a light on the untapped potential of the cannabis plant.  How to observe:  Do some research and learn about the potential of cannabis.  Discover the ways the producers are using cannabis to improve the environment and human health.  Funny how this coincides with 420...

 

National Poetry Month

The Man in a Jar   by Irwin Mercer 

I once knew a man who lived in a jar.

For a stranger sight you'd have to go far.

I asked him once why he lived in a jar.

He grimaced and said, how bizarre you are.

My jar's cozy, warm and bright,

Even in the full moonlight

The only drawback is, you see,

Getting out quickly when I have to pee.

National Soft Pretzel Month 

I mean, who doesn't love soft pretzels?  Check out my soft pretzel bites recipe here.

National Jazz Appreciation Month

Kick back and listen to Miles Davis, John Coltrane or Ella Fitzgerald and let the music move you.

 

National Humor Month

Humor is essential to our overall health.  Jokes and silliness increase our heart rate and blood flow, bringing blood flow to our brain and vital organs.  How to celebrate?  Tell a joke.  Act silly.  Watch a funny movie.  

National Card and Letter Writing Month

Why not take a few minutes and write some letters to friends and or family members and drop them in the mail?  People love getting happy mail!  I know that's the first thing I read when I get the mail!

Don't know what to write?  How about: an uplifting message, a funny or happy memory that you share with this person.  Maybe a thank you for something.  How about just to say hello?  This would be an excellent idea for a Girl Scout troop.  Seniors love receiving cards and letters.  Contact some senior living facilities and have your girls make spring cards.  The residents will surely appreciate receiving uplifting mail.

Have a great month everyone!

National Months - March

 Fun national months for March.  

And away we go...

National Sauce Month

I did a little digging on this one and found that sauces were used by the Romans to mask food that was starting to go bad.  This is definitely going to be something that I use at home with RT (just kidding, honey!).   What kind of sauces will you be using this month?  Pasta sauce, hot sauce, dressing, salsa, ketchup, mustard, sriracha...the list goes on and on.  Don't forget to use #NationalSauceMonth when posting your food pics to Instagram!

National Noodle Month

Well, you can't have National Sauce Month without having National Noodle Month.  They go hand in hand.  And, March 11 is National Meatball Day, so, you can put those on a bed of noodles with some sauce.  #NationalNoodleMonth

National Craft Month    

Something I have been celebrating for the last few months.  Learning a craft has many benefits like, lowering blood pressure.  It also is great at teaching fine motor skills.  Now is a great time to sign up for a class or make a trip to the craft store and pick up some supplies.  By the way, does anyone need a flower bracelet?

National Celery Month

I was confused about this one, too.  This is what I came up with for this day.  Eating a serving of celery (three stalks) is like drinking half a glass of water.  Celery adds a little crunch to your salads and make a great snack (add some peanut butter or hummus).  A single serving of celery has 16 calories and contains fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C.  It makes a great addition to your snack list this month.

National Umbrella Month

The umbrella, developed over 4000 years ago, used for sun and rain protection gets celebrated for an entire month.  They say the average household has 3.8 umbrellas.  I'm sure we have more, but we can never find one when the rain starts to fall.  How to celebrate #NationalUmbrellaMonth you ask?  How about trying to locate those 3.8 umbrellas that are hiding around your house?  Once you find them, put them in a spot where you can find them in a torrential downpour.  I personally like to hide one in my car.  Oh yea, don't forget to celebrate National Open an Umbrella Indoors Day on March 13!

And, it's also

Greek American Heritage Month

Also known as Hellenic Heritage month is set aside to celebrate Greek-American history.  It also coincides with Greece's National Independence Day on March 25.  In the late 1800's, a large number of Greeks immigrated to the United States.  That number increased after World War II, with Greeks leaving because of economic devastation.  It is believed that there are over 2.5 million Americans that are of Greek American heritage.    

Have a great month!

National Months - February

 Here we go....fun national months for February!

National 

Fasting February 

Intermittent fasting does not require any changes to your diet, just the timing of your food and beverage intake.  Switching from burning fats to burning sugars can reduce our risk of metabolic disorders like diabetes and other conditions of aging.  Regularly refraining from consuming any calories for 10-12 hours can: 

improve heart health

lower blood pressure

promote weight loss

improve sensitivity to insulin

  

How to Observe:

Choose a fasting schedule that works for you and practice it all month long.  Don't worry if you can't make the 12 hours at first.  Start slow and work your way up.  You can also share on social media #NationalFastingFebruary

Let's see if we can get RT on the fasting train this month.

Hot Breakfast Month

What better way to start your day than a nice hot breakfast?  It's easy to just grab something and get going in the morning.  Why not get up a little earlier and enjoy a nice hot breakfast?  Need some ideas?   How about:

 

Toast with a peanut (almond, cashew, sun) butter, banana slices and chia seeds

Oatmeal with raisins, walnuts and some ground flax seeds

Avocado toast

Egg(s) and toast

Sweet potato and black bean burrito

You can share your breakfast on social media using #NationalHotBreakfastMonth or #HotBreakfastMonth 

Bake for Family Fun Month

With February being one of the colder months, why not warm up the house by doing a little baking?  Families that bake together have fun together.  Along with having fun, children can learn how to follow a recipe, practice their reading skills, all while learning a little math and chemistry.  After baking and cleaning up, you can enjoy your treats as a family.

How to observe #BakeForFamilyFunMonth ?  

Choose a kid friendly recipe.

Assign everyone a task

Invite grandparents to join you. 

An Affair to Remember Month

I think this goes along with Valentine's Day and February, the month of love.  If you haven't watched, "An Affair to Remember," I suggest you put it on your movie list.  I won't go into detail because I think it's best if you view it on the screen.  It's a tear jerker so have a box of tissue at your side.   Use #AnAffairToRememberMonth on social media.

Snack Food Month

Not just any snacks.  Grab a healthy snack!  This month was created to raise awareness about snacking and the importance of a healthy snack.  So, grab some trail mix, apple slices, carrot sticks, yogurt with granola or a protein shake.  You get the idea.  And make sure to snap a picture of it and post it on social media using #NationalSnackFoodMonth or #SnackFoodMonth.

Hope you have a great month!

National Months - January

 Well, I wrote about the odd weird interesting national days and weeks throughout the year and thought I should move on to months.  I am going to consolidate them into one post a month (you're welcome).

Let's get started, shall we? 

January is

National CBD Month

What a great way to chill down from all of the craziness of the holidays.  CBD comes directly from the hemp plant and brings the power from the hemp without the "high" associated with cannabis plants.  There are lots of products available now: tinctures, topicals, capsules, edibles, bath bombs, dog treats (Pippen enjoys these), etc.  

How to observe:

If you haven't tried CBD, this is the month to try it.  Ask your friends about their favorite CBD products.  Research suppliers so you get high quality, unadulterated CBD products.  Oh, you can spread awareness by posting to social media using #NationalCBDMonth.

January is also

National Hot Tea Month

What better way to survive the bitter cold days of January than a hot cup of tea.  31 days of drinking tea sounds pretty good to me.  

I tried to do a little digging on the history of tea and found that it started in China (BC) as a medicinal drink.  It was written about in a medical journal in 3rd century AD.

Tea benefits:

packed with antioxidants to protect and keep our body young and protect from toxins

less caffeine than coffee

tea drinkers have a 20% less chance of having a heart attack than those who don't drink tea

can help with weigh loss.  It's calorie free, gives you energy and helps burn calories throughout the day

it's an immune booster

How to observe tea month:

Sip some tea.  Don't forget to post a picture of that hot cup of tea and use #NationalHotTeaMonth , or #HotTeaMonth or #TeaTime.

If you're lucky, maybe the Tea Fairy will visit you this month!

How much tea will you drink this month?

National Nude Recreation Week

 This year I am posting about the fun National Weeks throughout the year.  It's time to get naked this week so we can celebrate National Nude Recreation Week!

We have been experiencing some extremely hot temperatures around here lately making this the perfect time of year for this celebration.

I did a little digging for the history of this holiday and thought I would share some my finds.  

In 1975, Lee Baxandall and some friends created a support group called, Free the Free Beach Committee.  One of their first events was a nude beach celebration.  Thousands of supporters came out and there were no arrests made (maybe people are much more peaceful when they are nude?).  In 1976 they designated August 7 as National Nude Beach Day.  With this being a success, they moved on to designate the third weekend in July as National Nude Weekend.  This weekend nudity was eventually extended to a week-long celebration in 1992.  

*Nudity is a great way to shed stress, along with your clothing

*There are about 225,000 naturists in North America

Naturists are people who practice naturalism, in other words, nudity.

How to participate? 

There are plenty of clothing optional clubs around the country offering activities all week long.  

#NudeRecreationWeek

I would use your discretion if posting to social media.  Oh, yea, and don't forget to wear sunscreen!

Will you be celebrating this week?

National Pet Week

 This year I am posting about the fun National Weeks throughout the year.  This week we are celebrating the relationship with our pets for National Pet Week. 

The relationship between us humans and our pets have changed over the years.  For thousands of years dogs have provided protection and companionship while cats helped rid homes of mice.  

For some of us, things have changed a little over the years.  While some of our pets still "work" around the house, they are also our favorite companions.  Their greatest asset is friendship and love.  And, let's face it, pets are great therapists!  They listen to all of our problems and, most importantly, do not judge us.   They don't ask for much in return.  Our only job has been to love and care for them.

How to celebrate the week?

Check with your vet to make sure your pet is up to date with all of their shots.

Check your pet's toys.  Toss out the damaged ones.

Exercise your pet.  That could be a nice long walk or a game of fetch.

Surprise your pet with an extra treat.  Maybe buy some new treats or toys.

You can share your pet love and stories on social media using #NationalPetWeek (I have a few here on the blog, just search My Weird Dog).

 In our house we don't have a day or week celebration for our pet.  The world revolves around  Pippen gets celebrated Every. Single. Day. 

National Weeks

 This year I am posting about the fun National Weeks throughout the year.  This week, there are several to be celebrated so let's get started.

International Women's Week

One day is not enough to celebrate us women so we decided to take the entire week (oh, and the entire month of March, too).   The week is set aside to celebrate the social, economical, cultural and political achievements of women.  Looking for a way to celebrate this week?  How about donating time or skills to a local women's shelter.  How about helping/empowering some young Girl Scouts (it's not too late to buy some Girl Scout cookies)?  Because, it is also...

National Girl Scout Week

Girl Scout week is always celebrated around Girl Scout Day, the anniversary of the very first Girl Scout Troop meeting that took place on March 12, 1912.  The troop consisted of 18 girls and was considered a big deal.  The girls were able to get out and experience outdoors adventures and develop resourcefulness.  Hiking, camping, basketball and horseback riding are some of the activities.  This was an organization run by women for women and girls.  Remember, this was a time before women had the right to vote.  Today, 110 years later, there are over 10 million members in over 146 countries.  How can you celebrate the day?  Learn a little more about Juliette Gordon Lowe (the Girl Scout founder).  Or, even better, help out by purchasing a box of cookies from your favorite Girl Scout.

I was putting this one off until the last possible moment.  I can't believe it's here already!  I'm not even prepared!  You see, it's also

National Procrastination Week

This week is celebrated the first two weeks in March, or "whenever it's convenient."  I can see this holiday getting pushed off until later.   The goal of this holiday is to put off any necessary tasks until later.  This is supposed to give everyone a little break (or create even more procrastinators in the world).  This holiday does not give the green light to laziness, though.  This is to lighten your load a little so you can indulge in some of those fun activities you save for later (reading, cooking, exercising).  I do have to note that one of the items suggested as a "fun activity" was cleaning.  I would like to add that to my procrastination list (Who sees cleaning as fun?  You people need to get out more!)

Have fun this week!

Veganuary

 We are halfway through Veganuary and I thought I would check in and see how everyone is doing on their journey.  If you haven't tried the vegan diet, now is a great time to test it out.  There are plenty of easy vegan dishes for you to make and most restaurants are willing to make an entree vegan upon request.

Oh, you don't want to be inconvenienced. 

You are worried about what you will eat for the day.  

You don't care about the health benefits of a plant-based diet.  

Well, while you complain, consider these facts:  Going vegan for just one day saves

40 pounds of grain*

1100 gallons of water**

30 square feet of forest

1 animal

20 pounds of CO2

*That grain can feed hungry populations around the world

**equivalent to four months' worth of showers

I'll make it easy for you to get started.  Here is a list of vegan recipes here on the blog.  Pick out a few and plan your day so you will know what you can eat.  

Appetizers:

Thai Coconut Curry Soup

Avocado Jalapeño hummus

Red Lentil Tomato Soup

Roasted Cauliflower

Tuscan Soup

Entrees:

Black Beans, Cuban Style  add rice to make as a meal

Black Beans and Spanish Rice
Black Bean Tortilla Pie
Broccoli Salad
Cajun Tofu, Sweet Potato, Cilantro Rice Bowl
Cauliflower Fried Rice, Vegan

Chick Pea Salad Sandwiches
Chick Pea Tikka Masala

Collard Greens with Beans

Crispy Tofu 

Dolmades Vegetarian

Eggplant Patties
Fakes (Greek Lentil Soup)

Falafel, Baked 

Green Beans (Greek Style)

Jambalaya, Vegan

Manicotti

Meatballs, Vegan

Mexican Quinoa Bake

Moroccan Couscous with Roasted Vegetables
Pad Thai, Vegan

Poblanos, Roasted and Stuffed

Roasted Vegetables and Pesto Penne Pasta
Putanesca Sauce with Angel Hair Pasta

Tabbouleh

Vegetable Stir Fry 
Vegetarian Chili
Vegetarian Hoppin John

And, of course, dessert:

Black Bean Brownies (Vegan)
Black Bean Protein Bites

Brownies, Vegan

Brownies, Vegan 2 

Chocolate Chip Blondies, Vegan

Energy Bites

I hope you give vegan a try, even if it's just for one day.  

If you decide to try vegan for a day, let me know how it went in the comments below.

Fun National Days in June

 I did some digging and found some fun holidays to celebrate during June.

Here we go:

June 1

National Olive Day

A day to celebrate one of the world's oldest fruits.  Another symbol we get from this is the olive branch which stands for peace, love and friendship.  Olives are used in cocktails (think Martini), in salads or even better, on pizza!  

It's also

National Barefoot Day

A day for RT to continue his love of going barefoot.  Let's hope he doesn't get a splinter again.  I don't want to be the lucky recipient that gets photos of the bottom of his foot.

It's also

National Say Something Nice Day

I think everyone can participate today.  Think about the nicest person you know and put one of their better qualities into practice.  Give someone a compliment.  Do it for the joy of seeing them smile because of your kind words.  

And, 

National Pen Pal Day

Remember the joy you would get sending letters to people in the mail and then waiting to hear back from them?  Having a pen pal improves our writing skills, offer us a broader view of the world and also gives us a break from technology.  Don't have a pen pal?  How about writing a letter and sending it to a friend?

June 3

National Repeat Day

A great day to say everything again.  A great day to say everything again.  How to celebrate?  Say "Thank You" twice instead of once every time.  Call your Mom (or a friend) twice and tell them the same things in the second phone call.  Play your favorite song twice and sing along both times (preferably when RT is not around). 

June 4

National Cheese Day

A great day for those that like to eat cheese.

 

June 5

National Moonshine Day

Moonshine is mostly made of corn mash and is typically made illegally.  White Lightning, Mountain Dew, homebrew, hillbilly pop and rotgut are just a few of the names used.  Moonshine became a big business opportunity during Prohibition.  There are some distilleries making Moonshine (legally) and, of course, there are still others that produce it illegally.

It's also

National Trails Day

Get out there and Take a Hike!

June 7

National VCR Day

Time to pull out that good ole VCR and watch a movie!    Oh, yea, don't forget to rewind it after you're done!  Believe it or not, I think we still have some movies on VHS.

June 8

National Best Friends Day

A day to honor your best friend.  The best way to celebrate?  Tell them how much they mean to you.  Send them a letter (in code), invite them out for margaritas and nachos to chat and share a memory or three.  

June 10

National Ballpoint Pen Day

Celebrating pens and the date that they had their patent filed.  I love pens, so I will definitely be celebrating today.   And, how shall we celebrate the day?  Well, how about using that pen to create a doodle.  Handwrite your 'To Do' list.  Write a letter or note to someone special.

June 13

National Weed Your Garden Day

National pulling weeds day is everyday for me.  My family has to stop me if I start to pull weeds otherwise I will be out there for hours.

June 19

National Martini Day

"Shaken, not stirred."

June 20

National Hike with a Geek Day

The day encourages IT (and techies) to push away the keyboard and get outside in nature.  Guess I'll be going on a hike with RT today.....

June 21

National Selfie Day

How to celebrate?  Post your favorite selfies from your travels, with friends/family and use #NationalSelfieDay on social media.  Need inspo ideas?  Duck face selfie, car selfie, bathroom selfie, gym selfie, work selfie (my favorite), pet selfie, bff selfie and food selfie.  

June 23

National Detroit Style Pizza Day

Thick pizza that is cut into squares.  I think this means that Uncle Steve should have a pizza party.

June 24

National Handshake Day

Do people still use the handshake or has it morphed into a fist or elbow bump?

June 25

National Take your Dog to Work Day

My absolute favorite day!  Pack your lunch, Pippen you're coming to work with me!

That's it for June.  Get out there and have a great month!