Category: unofficial holidays

Celebrating National Dog Day

Did you know August 26 is National Dog Day? An entire day celebrating your faithful companion, best friend, and beloved family member. Responsible pet owners are fully aware of the importance a dog brings to a home.  Today is just a reminder to pass along some extra love.

Ways to Celebrate National Dog Day 

  • Go for a Nature Walk: Spend extra time outdoors by going for a nature walk. Go to your local pet-friendly park to enjoy some quality time together.
  • Go Hiking: An active dog would love the extra challenge of a hike. With all the new smells, going to a new location is a great experience for your dog.  
  • Go to the Lake or Beach: Does your dog love the water? Spend an afternoon at your favorite pet-friendly beach or lake. 
  • Go to the Dog Park: Spend time together at your local dog park. Or for an added treat, explore a new dog park in the area. 
  • Host a Dog Party: Spend time with your friends and their dogs by hosting an afternoon dog party. 
  • Make a Homemade Dog Treat: Pinterest is a great resource for finding pet-friendly dog treats and meals. Bake something special for National Dog Day. 
  • Buy a New Toy: Bring home your dog a new toy or chew bone or both. 
  • Purchase New Bedding: Has your dog outgrown his current bed? Purchase a new bed and blanket as part of the dog day celebration. 
  • Purchase New Collar: Does your dog need a new collar? Buy your dog some extra gifts, a new collar, leash, and doggie clothes. 
  • Take Photos: Hire a professional to take photos of you and your dog together. Or spend the day taking selfies of you and dog together. Put the photos in an album or hang on the way to remind you of the day. 
  • Cuddle Time: Give your dog some extra love. Cuddle together on the couch. (Your dog will not care if you’re watching Netflix at the same time.)
  • Adopt: Have you been considering adopting a dog? Make the experience special by adopting a dog or two on National Dog Day. 
  • Volunteer: Are you unable to adopt a dog right now but have some extra time? Consider volunteering at your local shelter or rescue. Numerous organizations need help in many areas including cleaning pens and walking the dogs. 
  • Donate: Is your time limited right now? Consider donating to celebrate National Dog Day. Many shelters, rescues or other dog organizations have wish lists. Donating products off the list helps in many ways. If you do not have time to shop, monetary donations are always welcomed. 

 

 

Celebrate National Book Lovers Day

Today, August 9th is National Book Lovers Day. The printed word has fascinated people for centuries. Dedicating a day to those who love to read is a great way to honor the written word. Are you wondering how to celebrate National Book Lovers Day? Try any or all of the following ideas.

Ways to Celebrate National Book Lovers Day

According to the dictionary, a bibliophile is a person who collects or has a great love for books. Does this sound true for you? For avid readers, an entire day celebrating the love for books is ideal.

Read A Book

Sit, relax, and read. If you do not have time to read numerous chapters, read a small portion of the book on your lunch hour or before cooking dinner.

Reread Your Favorite Book

Is there a past book calling to you to read again? Find the old favorite on your bookshelf. Many book lovers find rereading a book is comparable to visiting an old friend.

Go to the Library

Do you need a book to read? Head to your local library.

  • Browse the different books available.
  • Search for books on the library computer.
  • Most libraries display new arrivals.
  • Ask the librarian about any new books within your favorite genre.
  • Join the library’s reading group for an opportunity to discuss new reading material.

Go to Your Favorite Book Store

If you lucky enough to have an independent book store in your town, go and browse the aisles for something new to read.

  • Spend your lunch hour or an afternoon amongst the stacks of books.
  • Learn about local authors.
  • Grab a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy the atmosphere.

Listen to an Audiobook

Listen to an audiobook during the morning commute, gym workout, or working around the house. Audiobook narrators use different voices and sound to bring the story alive.

Support a Book Lover

Do you know someone who loves books more than you? Or do you want to encourage younger minds to enjoy the endless possibilities of storylines? Support a book lover by purchasing a book as an impromptu gift. Or buy a gift card or certificate for the local bookstore.

How do you want to spend National Book Lovers Day? Go outdoors, relax in a hammock, and enjoy your favorite book.

 

 

 

Sea Serpent Day

Did you know today, August 7th is Sea Serpent Day? A sea serpent or sea dragon is a fascinating mythological creature. The mention of sea serpents brings up images of legends of the deep seas. Did sea serpents really exist? Who knows, stories passed down from one generation to the next had to originate from somewhere.

Ways to Celebrate Sea Serpent Day

Whether the sea serpents existed or not, celebrating the mythological creatures can be a fun activity for you and family.

Movie Night

The sea holds numerous mysteries. Movies use the unknown to entice the watcher. From Scooby-Doo and the Sea Monsters to It Came From Beneath the Sea, sea creatures movies are a captivating genre to watch.

Sea Themed Food

Yes, you can create an entire dinner based on foods from the sea. Or you can make simple snacks to go along with your movie night. For example, the Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers are an ideal treat for sea-themed movie night. Serving pretzels can easily represent driftwood and green licorice turns into seaweed bunches. Blue Hawaiian Punch (Polar Blast) is the perfect glass of seawater.

Go to the Library

Go to your local library or book store to find books about sea serpents. The myths and legends are perfect reading material.

Go to the Beach

Even if you are nowhere near the open sea, going to the beach is a great way to celebrate Sea Serpent Day. Look for shells, sea glass, and other goodies. Remember to follow all the rules of public places.

Make Crafts

Have a craft day or afternoon. Use different materials to create sea serpents and their habitant.

  • Create a sea serpent out of clay, dry, and paint.
  • Make paper mache sea serpent
  • Draw or paint a sea serpent
  • Use construction paper, googly eyes, and other materials to create a sea serpent

Creating art with a sea serpent theme has endless possibilities.

Tell a Tale

Write a story about a sea serpent. If you have younger children, ask them to tell a story to you. Writing down their imaginary world with a sea serpent creates a lasting treasure.

From a simple Internet search to writing a story, celebrating sea serpent day can be a memorable activity for all to enjoy.

Celebrating UFO Day

Did you know July 2nd is World UFO Day? UFOs or Unidentified Flying Objects have been the subject of curiosity since the beginning of the recorded word. Whether you believe or not, celebrating World UFO Day is a great way to learn about unexplainable sights in the night sky.

Ways to Celebrate UFO Day

Celebrating UFO can be a way to bring family and friends together. Remember activities should be age appropriate for your children to enjoy.

Go to the Library

Some libraries are hosting special events to celebrate World UFO Day. Teen night, game night, reading groups, and other related activities may be a part of your local library’s events. Check your library’s social media page or website for details.

Even if your library is not hosting a UFO event, find a book to read. UFOs and aliens have been the subject to many storylines. Do not hesitate to ask your librarian for suggestions.

Write a UFO Story

Write a story about viewing a UFO. Or ask your children to tell you a story about UFOs and aliens. Writing down their words may result in a memorable tale.

UFO Crafts

Spend the afternoon making UFO crafts. The crafts do not need to be complex. For example, paper plates glued together make a perfect base for a UFO. Decorate the UFO with different types of art mediums including:

  • Paint
  • Markers
  • Crayons
  • Glitter
  • Stickers
  • Macaroni
  • Pom-pons
  • Jewels

The type of UFO creation is only limited by your imagination.

If you want to do make a more involved project, build the solar system.

UFO Treats

UFO or alien themed treats are a perfect snack. A cake or cupcake can be your starting point for UFO treats. Or a cookie decorated with MM”s can easily transform into a UFO. The treats are a perfect addition to a movie or game night.

Movie Night

From 1950’s classics to modern cinematic blockbusters, watching  UFO or alien-themed movies is another way to celebrate World UFO Day.

Movie and television ideas include:

  • Star Wars
  • Star Trek
  • Men In Black
  • Aliens
  • Pacific Rim
  • Iron Giant
  • Signs
  • Doctor Who
  • Roswell, New Mexico
  • E.T.
  • The Day the Earth Stood Still
  • War of the World
  • Thing from Another World

Host a Stargazing Party

Gather your friends and family members together for a night of stargazing. Spread out blankets, lay back, and look at the stars. You may not see a UFO but the night sky has other amazing sights to view.

How to Celebrate International Bat Appreciation Day

Today, April 17th is International Bat Appreciation Day. Myths and urban legends often give bats a bad reputation. Bats are actually interesting creatures. A single bat can feast on a meal of 100 mosquitoes in just an hour’s time.

Celebrating Bat Appreciation Day

So how do you celebrate a day dedicated to a bat? Consider the ideas below.

  • Go to the Library or Local Book Store: Finding books about bats will help you learn about the species, behavior, habitat, and more.
  • Watch a Documentary about Bats: Check out Netflix, YouTube or other streaming resources for a program about bats. National Geographic and PBS are generally two top resources for nature documentaries.
  • Go to Your Local Zoo: Behind the protective glass, many zoos have different bats for viewing. The zoo or local wildlife rehabilitation center may have programs for viewing bats up close.
  • Write a Child’s Story Focused on a Bat: Do you need help getting started? A quick writing prompt is “the lonely little bat” or “the bat found a new home”. If you are having a problem with writing out a story, ask your child to make one up. Younger children may require your help in writing down the words. The quick story can easily turn into a lasting memory.
  • Do Bat-Themed Crafts: An easy craft is a collage. Simply cut out a bat shape on a piece of black construction paper. Allow your child to glue different materials to the bat. For example, add googly eyes, sequins, pompoms, yarn pieces, etc. Painting or using chalk on the construction paper bat is another way. Ask your child about the bat masterpiece.

The best way to celebrate Bat Appreciation Day is by having fun. Learn about the bats. Engage in a bat-themed family activity. Just remember, allow professionals to handle bats if you find one in your home or business.

Celebrate! Love Your Pet Day

Did you know, today, February 20th is Love Your Pet Day? Whether you have a dog, cat or other furry little critter, pets bring companionship, joy, and fun to your home. Dedicated pet owners always show love to their furry or feathered friends. Today just focuses on the love you have for your pet. Life should be about small celebrations.

How to Celebrate Love Your Pet Day?

Being a responsible pet owner, you already know the activities your dog (or cat) enjoys the most. Set some time aside to engage in your pet’s favorite pastime. If you are looking for new activity, consider the following ideas to celebrate Love Your Pet Day:

Time

Work, family, school, or other commitments keep you busy. Being home alone may leave your pet feeling lonely. Spending some extra quality time with your faithful companion is the perfect way to celebrate Love Your Pet Day.

  • Go to the local dog park or find a new one to explore
  • Go hiking on a new trail
  • Go for a car ride together to find a special treat
  • Snuggle on the sofa

New Toy

Pick up a new toy for your beloved pet. A new squeaky toy for your dog or cat nipped filled mouse for your feline friend will brighten your pet’s day.

Homemade Treats

Head over to Pinterest to search for homemade animal treats. Baking homemade dog or cat treats shows extra love for your pet on this special day. Most recipes require basic ingredients that you may already have on hand. The wide range of recipes available ensures the perfect fit for your pet.

Spa Treatment

Many dogs love pampering (cats not so much). Send your pooch to the local doggy spa for a fresh bath, nail trimming, and more.

Photo of the Occasion

A photo of the occasion is the best way to mark Love Your Pet Day.

  • Take a selfie
  • Set up your own photo shoot
  • Get a professional portrait

Need a Pet? Adopt

Bringing home a pet from a local rescue or animal shelter immediately shows love. Celebrating Love Your Pet Day with a new furry companion goes beyond recognizing the day, the action may actually save a life.

3 Benefits of Adopting a Senior Dog

Making the decision to adopt a dog (or cat) should be carefully considered. Pets are a big responsibility. Take your time and research. Finding the best fit for you and your family is essential.

When you head to your local shelter or rescue center, keep an open mind. Bring home a dog does not necessarily automatically mean a puppy. Older or senior dogs have many benefits. November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month. Embracing an older dog (or cat) into your home is a wonderful way to celebrate a month dedicated to senior pet adoption.

3 Benefits of Adopting an Older Dog

Thousands of animals end up in local shelters or rescue centers due to no fault of their own. Being in a shelter is a scary place for dogs and cats. When people come to adopt, puppies are generally at the top of the list. Unknowing to most new pet owners, older dogs provide many benefits.

1. Background Information

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to learn the background and medical information on the senior dog. Older dogs end up in shelters for various reasons. When the senior dog comes into the shelter or a recuse center, the establishment will try to get as much background information as possible.

2. Slower Pace

Unlike puppies, senior dogs are less demanding. Keep in mind, an older dog still needs direction. But generally, an older dog already is leash trained, requires less exercise, understands basic commands, and house trained. If not, you can still teach a senior dog. When bringing any newly adopted pet into your home, the key is patience and consistency.

3. Saving a Life

Realistically, adopting a senior dog may save a life. Passing up on an older dog or cat may lead to the animal being euthanized. Euthanizing unadoptable dogs, senior dogs are generally among this group. Bringing home the older dog may be the perfect way to save a life.

When you begin your search for a new furry companion, consider adopting a senior dog at a shelter or rescue. Providing an older dog with a loving home is a rewarding experience.

25 Fun Fall Activities

Fall brings changing leaves, cooler temperatures, and football. Enjoying the simple pleasures with your family and friends, celebrate life.

25 Fall Activities

  1. Go to a homecoming football game/attend the parade and other related events
  2. Go tailgating
  3. Host a fall themed craft day
  4. Decorate for fall
  5. Go on a color tour/photograph the spectacular changing fall leaves
  6. Have a bonfire
  7. Watch apple cider being made
  8. Drink apple cider/eat apple cider donuts
  9. Go outside and jump in a pile of leaves
  10. Go hiking
  11. Collect pinecones for crafts
  12. Bake an apple pie from freshly picked apples
  13. Play football in your backyard or at the park
  14. Go to your local farmer’s market
  15. Go to the library or bookstore to find books about fall
  16. Spend a day reading; wrap yourself in a warm blanket
  17. Burn fall scented candles
  18. Make caramel apples
  19. Go on a hayride
  20. Host a fall tea
  21. Enjoy a fall picnic
  22. Make homemade soup on a cool day (use fresh ingredients from the farmer’s market)
  23. Attend a fall festival or street fair
  24. Host a movie night
  25. Make a scarecrow

 

Going Back to Hogwarts

“Whether you come back by page or big screen,

Hogwarts will always be there to

welcome you home”

~J.K. Rowling

For fans of the beloved J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter series, September 1st represents going back to Hogwarts. Celebrating the return to Hogwarts can be fun with the following activities for you, your family and friends to enjoy.

Host a Craft and Activity Day

Gather your family or friends and enjoy a craft day. Creating Harry Potter inspired crafts is easy with the help of Pinterest or Internet search.

Searching for activities, you can make a wide range of crafts including:

Make a wand with wooden craft sticks, hot glue, and paint.
  • Make a wand
  • Holiday ornaments
  • Coloring pages
  • Owl crafts
  • Create potions
  • Suncatchers

    Melt pony beads on old pizza pans to create large Harry Potter inspired sun catchers.

Harry Potter Inspired Recipes

Create a Harry Potter inspired meal, beverage, or snack. Search Pinterest, some of the recipes include:

  • Butterbeer
  • Pumpkin Pasties
  • Pumpkin Juice
  • Chocolate Frogs

Listen or Read Harry Potter

Simply spend the day relaxing. Spending a day immersed in the Wizarding World, listen or read your favorite Harry Potter book.

Host a Movie Marathon

Call your friends to watch your favorite Harry Potter movie or host a family movie marathon.

For Harry Potter fans, celebrating the day is like visiting an old friend. Consider doing one or combination of activities to enjoy the day.

National Iced Tea Day

Today, June 10th is National Iced Tea Day. Enjoying a tall glass of iced tea on a summer day is a great way to quench your thirst. Cold, plain tea by itself is a perfectly fine beverage. But if you want to try something new, adding different flavors may be a surprising twist to an old classic.

Ways to Enhance Your Iced Tea

Experimenting with diverse flavoring is the best way to find a perfect match for you. Do not be afraid to try something new. Who knows, you may find the best combination to serve at your next family gathering.

Mint

Adding fresh mint from your garden provides a refreshing taste to your iced tea. Simply wash, chop leaves to the desired size, and add to your tea. Or chop mint leaves into smaller pieces and freeze in your ice cubes. Later add the frozen cubes to your tea.

Berries

Experiment by adding different fruits to your iced tea. Raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and other types of berries are a wonderful addition to your beverage. By experimenting you are able to find the perfect one to quench your taste buds.

Citrus

Along with berries, lemons, oranges, and grapefruit are another perfect addition to your iced tea. Simple wash and cut the citrus into slices to add to your tea.

Sweet

Of course, along with the healthier alternatives to add to your iced tea, you may add a sweetener. Many individuals prefer a sweet tea as an extra pick me up on a warm summer day.

So are you ready to add something new to your iced tea? Or are you happy drinking the tea without any new additions? Honestly, the choice is completely up to you. Just take the time to relax and enjoy an ice cold glass of tea on hot summer’s day.