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2010
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2011
January February March April May June
July August September


September is
National Potato Month

Potatoes are the world's fourth-largest food crop, following rice, wheat, and maize. The English word potato comes from Spanish patata.The name originally referred to a type of sweet potato.

A potato can be an entire meal, baked and topped with cheese, bacon bits, chopped vegetables, ground meat, and whatever else satisfies your taste buds. There are thousands of other potato recipes from soup to salads to side dishes.

September is the perfect time to celebrate this delicious, nutritious vegetable!
Today's Video

Betty's Kitchen
Oven-Baked Parmesan Potatoes
potatoes
Click on the picture
for easy and unique recipes with potatoes!

fitness
Click on the picture
for a great rundown on many health issues and treatments.
September 29 is
National Women's Health and Fitness Day

Being fit and healthy is something most everyone wants in their life. Getting that way, or staying that way, are sometimes difficult to achieve. Check out our suggested article and video for today. I think you'll find some good ideas.

Happy National Women's Health and FitnessDay

Today's Video

Fitness Myths Debunked

September 28 is
National Good Neighbor Day

When I was young, a hundred years ago, we had some neighbors that seemed to be part of our own family. We could go over anytime and know that whatever we needed, they would provide. They could also call us anytime for anything they needed. We often got together for a barbecue or other dinner. I loved them so much! They were definitely good neighbors!

Happy National Good Neighbor Day
bad neighbor
Click on the picture
to find out when and why Good Neighbor Day was created.
By the way, this lady is NOT a good neighbor!

ancestors
Click on the picture
to download a printable blank family tree.
September 27 is
National Ancestor Appreciation Day

Recording a family's heritage is tremendously important. We have made a blank family tree for you to fill in. You could make one for each person in the family, frame them and display them with your family photos. Click here to download the printable blank family tree. Get the family together and make a family tree for the grandparents, aunts and uncles, and the kids.

Happy National Ancestor Appreciation Day

Today's Video
Jon and Vangelis
The Mayflower

National Hunting and Fishing Day

Many men and women enjoy one or both of these sports. Some learn the art of hunting or fishing from a parent, an uncle, or another family member. Others begin on their own and then teach it to their children. If you have an aversion to killing animals, you could consider shooting with your camera. However you decide to celebrate...

Happy National Hunting and Fishing Day

Today's Video
watch Goofy in Foul Hunting.
fishing
Click on the picture
to read the history of this National holiday.

museum
Click on the picture
all the information about the Grand Rapids Children's Museum.


Today's Video
The Instrument Museum in Phoenix
September 25 is
National Museum Day

When I was 5 years old, my grandfather would walk with me from his house to the Grand Rapids Public Museum. It was about 3 miles, and often it was chilly outside. But he would hold my hand and then put both of our hands into his huge coat pocket as we walked. It was a feeling that I'll never forget. Make memories with your kids that they'll always remember by taking them to a museum. Let them see the fascination of the things of yesterday.

Happy National Museum Day

September 24 is
Love Note Day

Have you ever written a love note? I think everybody has written at least one. I once knew a couple who each had a notebook. Just a plain, spiral notebook. Once or twice a week, they would write a love note to each other. Just whatever was on their minds. After about a year of that, the husband passed away. Those love notes were priceless to his widow. You never know how long you're here for. If you love someone, don't wait to express it to him or her. It could be your last chance.

Have a lovely
Love Note Day
hearts
Click on the picture
for some great ideas to get you started on your own love letter.


Today's Video
Love Letter to Darla
(What NOT to do)

checkers
Click on the picture
for a quick game fo checkers against your computer.


Today's Video
How to Play Checkers
(Just in case you forgot)
September 23 is
Checkers Day

How long has it been since you've played this classic game? I hope all of your kids know how to play checkers. You know, if you went to visit your grandparents or some other elderly people, you'd most likely have an instant bond if you started talking about, or better yet, playing a game of checkers with them. Try it today! It's National Checkers Day!

September 22 is
Hobbit Day

"In a hole in the ground lived a hobbit." This day is the birthday of the famous hobbits, Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. The hobbits love to eat and be merry. Try to spend the day barefoot and eat six meals today. Then you'll be celebrating like a hobbit!

Happy Hobbit Day!
hobbit
Click on the picture
for facts about hobbits.


Today's Video
concerning hobbits

September 21 is
International Banana Festival

There are so many health benefits to bananas that everyone should add a banana a day to that apple a day. A banana in the morning, just when the hunger pangs begin to set in, or sliced on cereal, or sliced and added to yogurt or a smoothie... it's the perfect breakfast fruit. If you're really pressed for time, just grab one and eat it on the way to work. Only 86 calories in a medium banana, and 1 gram of protein and 3 grams of dietary fiber.

Happy International Banana Festival
bananas
Click on the picture
for facts about bananas and their effect on warts, morning sickness, brain power and much more!


Today's Video
Bert and Ernie
Banana Phone

babies
Click on the picture
for some tips and ideas for keeping your baby safe.
September is
National Baby Safety Month

There are many things that our grandparents and parents did with their babies that have now been proven as safety hazards. They had no way of knowing that those things were safety hazards. Today's generation has much more information on safety for children than any previous generation has had.

Sadly, many people don't pay any attention to these warnings, or don't take the time to learn about safety. Please take a few minutes this month to read the safety webpage, and to watch today's video on safety in the nursery!

Today's Video
Baby Safety in the Nursery

Have a safe National Baby Safety Month!

September 19 is
National Women's FriendshipDay

I can remember my best friend in kindergarten. Kathy and I would lie on our tummies in the grass and read books together. In 7th grade, my best friend Judy and I would tramp through the woods, exploring all the ponds and clearings. Then we would just sit on a stump and talk.

Today is a day to think about those special female friends that you can tell anything to and they'll still be your friend. You share secrets, joys and trials with each other. Friends like that are the silver linings to the clouds of life.

Celebrate National Women's Friendship Day!
women
Click on the picture
for some ideas on how to celebrate this day with your female friends!


Today's Video
You've Got a Friend
Carole King, Celine Dion, Shania Twain, Gloria Estefan

tree
Click on the picture
for suggestions on learning and teaching respect.


Today's Video
Rafa & Roger - Rivalry and respect
September 18 is
National Respect Day

Abraham J. Heshcel on Respect-
“A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old. It is easy to love children. Even tyrants and dictators make a point of being fond of children. But the affection and care for the old, the incurable, the helpless are the true gold mines of a culture.”


September 17 is
National Apple Dumpling Day

There's something about the fragrance of apple pie, applesauce, apple butter, and apple dumplings that brings memories of home and the crisp, autumn outdoors. Try either of these recipes and enjoy a family time with a memorable treat!

Happy National Apple Dumpling Day!
dumpling
Click on the picture
for step-by-step video instructions
for making classic apple dumplings.


Today's Video
Great Apple Dumplings

playdoh
Click on the picture
for the story of Play-Doh's inventor.


Today's Video
Fascinating video of Play-Doh animation being shot
September 16 is
National Play-Doh Day

Did you know that Play-Doh was originally invented as a wallpaper cleaner? Aren't you glad the inventor changed his mind about its main use?
Play-Doh is soft enough for little hands, yet usable enough for professional projects like the one shown in today's video.

Happy National Play-Doh Day!

September is
Library Card Sign-up Month

"Mom, how old do I have to be to get a driver's license?"
"Sixteen, Dear."
"Mom, how old do I have to be to get a voter's card?"
"Eighteen, Dear."
"Mom, how old do I have to be to get a library card?"
"As long as you can sign your name, maybe even five! You're five; shall we go get you one?"
"Finally something I can do! Let's go!"

Need help finding your nearest library?
Click here for libraries in 4 West Michigan counties!

Happy Library Card Sign-up Month
books
Click on the picture
for lots of ways to use the library!


Today's Video
Arthur and the Library Card

line-dancing
Click on the picture
for the 5 most popular line dances, with full instructions!


Today's Video
Line Dance World in Nashville
This week in September is
Line Dancing Week

At my nephew's wedding reception a few years ago, my sister-in-law and her girls were having a blast line dancing. It looked like so much fun! It is now becoming popular as a form of exercise. Fun, music and exercise has to be a great combination!
Happy Line Dancing Week

September 13 is
Positive Thinking Day

Positive thinking is much more fun than negative thinking. Plus, it's healthier for you, and it makes people much more eager to be around you. If you are negative, you'll attract people who are negative. If you're positive, you'll attract positive people. Try it; it's true!
Happy Positive Thinking Day
flower
Click on the picture
for the healthful benefits of positive thinking.


Today's Video
The Power of Positive Thinking

milkshake
Click on the picture
for the best fast food milkshake guide.


Today's Video
Vanilla and Chocolate Banana Milkshake Recipes
September 12 is
National Chocolate Milkshake Day

If you ever watched Happy Days, Father Knows Best, or Mayberry RFD, you saw plenty of milkshakes being served. You can click on our picture for a report on the best fast food shakes, or you could watch our video for instructions on making your own delicious milkshake at home. While you drink it, please take our Daily Holiday Milkshake Survey!
Happy National Chocolate Milkshake Day

bed
Click on the picture
for one person's vow to make the bed every morning, plus a few other promises.


Today's Video
How to Make a Military Bed with Hospital Corners
September 11 is
Make Your Bed Day

Just because your mother told you to make your bed isn't a good reason to not make your bed. There are just a few things that take only a few minutes, but they improve your sense of well-being.

1. Make your bed. This might mean only pulling up the comforter and making it relatively smooth, but that's fine.
2. When you've finished your shower, just before you leave the bathroom, use your towel to wipe down the sink, the tub or shower enclosure, then the toilet, in that order. Makes the "Clean Bathroom" look last a little longer.
3. After a meal, put the dishes in the dishwasher, not in the sink. Then wipe the surface and around the burners on the stove, next the counters, and last, the sink. Well, actually, one more thing: take the towel and wipe up any spots or spills on the kitchen floor. Now the "Clean Kitchen" look will last a little longer.

These few steps will give you the feeling that you've got a positive start on keeping your house or apartment neat and clean.

Happy Make Your Bed Day

NOTE: By not addressing Patriot Day, we in no way means to minimize the importance and significance of this day. It's just that we try to cover holidays that aren't the norm. With all due respect, Happy Patriot's Day. God bless America.

September 10 is
TV Dinner Day

TV dinners aren't as popular as they used to be, with fast food now having an edge over these compartmentalized meals. With the current selection of freezer containers available now, it's possible to make your own frozen dinners at a fraction of the cost, and at least double the nutrition and half the fat. Just divide your leftovers into these containers and pop them in the freezer.

P.S. - You can still watch TV while you eat them, if you want to.
Happy TV Dinner Day
dinner
Click on the picture
for some TV dinner nostalgia.


Today's Video
Invention and view of the original
TV dinner

teddy
Click on the picture
for some very meaningful
ways to celebrate
this fun day.


Today's Video
Corduroy - Part 1
Corduroy - Part 2
September 9 is
Teddy Bear Day

All I need to know about life I learned from my teddy bear

Hugs are even better than chocolate
There's no such thing as too many kisses
One good cuddle can change a grumpy day
Love is supposed to wear out your fur a little
It's okay to let your stuffing show now and then
Listening is as important as talking
Someone's got to keep their eyes open all the time
It's never too late to have a happy childhood
Everyone needs someone to hold on to
There's no friend like an old friend.

~Lulu Canard

Happy Teddy Bear Day

September 8 is
International Literacy Day

Just think about what it's like for those who can't read. Reading the packages and cans in the grocery store, trying to find a number in the phone book, filling out all the paperwork that your child brings home from school, reading the bills and mail that comes... Reading is extremely important, but now, in the 21st century, new forms of literacy are necessary. Techno-literacy has now become very important. Watch today's video. Keep in touch! Do what you can!
Happy International Literacy Day
literacy
Click on the picture
to read more about this important day.


Today's Video
21st Century Literacy

stamp
Click on the picture
to read the story of this lovely lady.


Today's Video
The Art of Grandma Moses
September 7 is
Grandma Moses Day

My grandfather was a painter, and my mother is a painter. I love seeing what they have created! Each one has a unique style, of course, but none is more interesting than another. I can't even paint a wall, so I'm glad that I have family members who contribute this kind of beauty to the world.
Happy Grandma Moses Day

September 6 is
Read a Book Day

Have you always wanted to visit Paris? Do need to learn how to sew? Are you wishing for a story with more substance than a virtual reality TV show? Would learning history be more interesting to you if you could read a fiction novel set in a certain time period? Do you need a humorous story to cheer you up? Are you parenting your first child or taking care of a new pet?

No matter what, you can find all this in a book. Google estimates that around 130 million books have been published. That ought to be enough to keep all of us busy for a while!
Happy Read a Book Day
magic book
Click on the picture
to read 26 major advantages to reading more books


Today's Video
How to Read a Book
A great idea for remembering key points in a book

waffle
Click on the picture
for waffles, waffles, waffles!


Today's Video
How To Make Perfect Waffles
The first week of September is
National Waffle Week

I remember spending weekends at my grandparents house, and Grandma made waffles for breakfast. Of course, that was about a hundred years ago, but now I have her original waffle iron. It was always a treat to be allowed to pour the batter on the waffle iron plate, but it was even more of a treat to eat the waffles, lightly crisp on the outside, warm and soft on the inside. Doesn't it just make you want to make a batch of your own?

Make some memories!
Whip up some waffles!

September 4 is
National Newspaper Carriers Day

Walking through the neighborhood before daylight, breathing in the frosty air, and quietly humming my chosen "Tune of the Day", I loved delivering newspapers. Occasionally, a kitchen light would be on, or there would be a shadow of light glowing through the shade of an upstairs window. The sounds of cats softly padding their way home after a night of hunting, a few remaining cricket chirps as they began to bed down after their nightly chorus... no other time of day has those special sounds.

Thank your paper carrier today for faithful delivery service every day. What a different world it would be without them!
newspapers
Click on the picture
to read a great story about a newspaper carrier.


Today's Video
Paperboy

lazy-mom
Click on the picture
for some great ways to entertain the kids even if you are having a lazy day.


Today's Video
Leslie Gore
Lazy Days
September 3 is
National Lazy Mom's Day

If you notice today that you have no breakfast, there are no clean clothes in your closet, your bed is unmade, and there's someone on the couch behind an open book, you might need to be know that you shouldn't panic. Your mom is just celebrating today's holiday! It would probably be a good idea for you to do some of these things for yourself, because today's holiday isn't officially over until midnight, and you could get pretty hungry by then...

Happy National Lazy Mom's Day!

September is
Self-Improvement Month

Self-improvement is a process that should be a lifelong goal. Our dad always urged us to be the best we could be. He didn't say to be better than others, but to be our personal best. There is always room in our lives for self-improvement. Today's is the perfect time to decide what your next area of self-improvement will be.

Happy Self-Improvement Month!
self-improvement
Click on the picture
for 10 Top Tips for Self-Improvement.


Today's Video
Jim Rohn - 3 Questions

piano
Click on the picture
for some great quotes about the piano.


Today's Video
The Next Mozart?
September is
National Piano Month

The piano is one of the most common instruments for beginning a musical career. Children can begin to learn the piano as soon as they know their numbers 1-5 and the letters A-G. However, you don't have to be a child to learn to play the piano. My oldest beginner was in her late 80's! If you've always dreamed of playing the piano, why wait?

Happy National Piano Month!

2010
         February March April May June
July August September October November December
2011
January February March April May June
July August September

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