Friday, November 30, 2012

Cities for Life Day, Computer Security Day, Mousse Day, more

November 30th, 2012, is Cities for Life Day, Stay Home Because You're Well Day, Computer Security Day, National Methamphetamine Awareness Day, Feast Day of Saint Andrew, St. Andrews Day (Scotland), Independence Day (Barbados), Bonificio Day (Philippines), and National Mousse Day. 

Today marks the tenth annual Cities for Life Day. About 1,400 cities and municipalities around the world participate, each creating a "live logo" by lighting a monument in a unique way. The day's message, "No Justice Without Life," is a plea to abolish the death penalty.

November 30th is Stay Home Because You're Well Day. Now, it's up to you what to say to your boss, but if you stay home your alibi should remain unquestioned.

Got firewalls? On Computer Security Day, stop to consider the security of your electronic information. Do you use antivirus software? Are your passwords creative? Think about all of your devices that contain electronic data, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is meant to highlight the dangers of meth, as well as the dangers of meth labs.

The Feast Day of Saint Andrew honors the patron saint of  Scotland, Greece, Russia, Ukraine, and Romania. Scotland, in fact, celebrates St. Andrews Day as a festive holiday.

Barbados observes Independence Day, celebrating freedom from British Rule since 1966.

Bonificio Day is a public holiday in the Philippines, honoring Andres Bonificio, a key player in the revolutionary forces against Spanish Colonial Rule in the 1800s.

National Mousse Day honors a delectable French dessert, mousse, not to be confused with the largest extant member of the deer family, the moose. Enjoy!


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Thursday, November 29, 2012

Square Dance Day, Throw Out Your Leftovers Day, more

November 29th, 2012, is Square Dance Day, Electronic Greetings Day, International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, and Throw Out Your Leftovers Day.

Swing your partner! Do-si-do! Turn up the music and celebrate Square Dance Day. Now promenade!

Save some stamps this holiday season, if you're not too much of a traditionalist. Send ecards instead of paper in honor of Electronic Greetings Day.

The United Nations sponsors International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on November 29th. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "Let us, on this International Day, reaffirm our commitment to translating solidarity into positive action. The international community must help steer the situation towards a historic peace agreement."

November 29th is Throw Out Your Leftovers Day. If you didn't freeze your leftover Thanksgiving turkey and dressing, it's time to say goodbye.


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Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Make Your Own Head Day, Red Planet Day, Turkey Leftover Day, more

November 28th, 2012, is Make Your Own Head Day, Red Planet Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, Ascension of Abdu'l-Baha, Independence Day (Albania), Independence Day (Mauritania), Independence Day (Panama), Turkey Leftover Day, and National French Toast Day.

Tired of what you see in the mirror? Feeling crafty? Then gather your supplies and celebrate Make Your Own Head Day. Go realistic or abstract. Use clay, beads, paper mache, pipe cleaners, yarn, glitter, cardboard, water bottles, computer parts, old socks, butter, whatever. Show the world the real you.

Red Planet Day honors the planet Mars, our neighbor in the solar system. On this date in 1964 Mariner 4 departed earth, then it cruised by Mars almost a year later. Currently the Mars Rover Curiosity is exploring the surface of the red planet. Follow @MarsCuriosity on Twitter, if you're curious.

If you're a regular reader of this blog, you know that the 28th of every month is Gone-ta-Pott Day.

Followers of the Baha'i faith observe the Ascension of Abdu'l-Baha, remembering the death of the son of Baha'u'llah.

The countries of Albania, Mauritania, and Panama celebrate Independence Day on November 28th.

Got turkey? Today is Turkey Leftover Day. Have some turkey soup or turkey tetrazzini for a yummy change of pace.

National French Toast Day honors a delicious breakfast food that is neither French nor toasted. Life is funny sometimes.


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Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Full moon names for November 28th, 2012, plus lunar eclipse

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for November 2012 takes place on November 28th or 29th, depending on your location. People in some parts of the world - notably Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, or East Asia - will enjoy a lunar eclipse.

Following is a list of full moon names for November, ranging from common to surprising.

Freezing River Maker Moon - Abenaki
Full Beaver Moon - Algonquin
Freezing Moon - Anishnaabe
When the Rivers Start to Freeze - Arapaho
Frost Moon - Assiniboine
Il Poya - Buddhist
Dark Moon - Celtic
Trading Moon - Cherokee
Deer Rutting Moon - Cheyenne
White Moon - Chinese
Sassafras Moon - Choctaw
Beaver Moon - Colonial American
Heading to Winter Moon - Comanche
Thanking Moon - Comanche
The Moon the Rivers Begin to Freeze - Cree
Iholi-Frost - Creek
Moon When the Water Is Black with Leaves - Creek
Moon When Horns Are Broken Off - Dakotah Sioux
Hunter's Moon - Deborean
Snow Moon - English Medieval
Snow Moon - Haida
Dev Diwali - Hindu
Kartik Poornima - Hindu
Tripurai Purnima - Hindu
Fledgling Raptor Moon - Hopi
Month of Fledgling Hawk - Hopi
Itartoryuk Moon - Inuit
Dark Moon - Janic
Dead Moon - Janic
Mourning Moon - Janic
Moving Inside for Winter - Kalapuya
Geese-Going Moon - Kiowa
Ring-Finger Moon  (counting on fingers, beginning in August) - Klamath
Snow Moon - Klamath
Halatai - Kumeyaay
Moon When the River Freezes - Mandan-Hidatsa
Time of Much Poverty - Mohawk
Large Tree Freeze - Mountain Maidu
Frosty Moon - Native American
Big Wind - Navajo
Tree Moon - Neo Pagan
Snow Moon - Pagan
Freezing Moon - Passamaquoddy
Cold Begins - Pomo
Month of the Turkey and Feast - Potawatomi
All Gathered Moon - San Juan Native American
Long Moon - Shawnee
Cold Moon - Shoshoni
Moon of the Falling Leaves - Sioux
Corn Harvest Moon - Taos
Moon When All Is Gathered In - Tewa Pueblo
Scraping Moon - Tlingit
Fog Moon - Unknown
Mad Moon - Unknown
Moon When Deer Shed Antlers - Unknown
Oak Moon - Unknown
Storm Moon - Unknown
Winter Divided - Valley Maidu
Mourning Moon - Wiccan
Little Bear's Moon - Winnebago
Snowy Mountains in the Morning Moon - Wishram
Animam Meecha - Yaqui
Cold Time - Yurok
Yachun kwa'shi'amme - Zuni

Sources for full moon names:

More about the moon:


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Pins and Needles Day, Bavarian Cream Pie Day

November 27th, 2012, is #Giving Tuesday, Pins and Needles Day and National Bavarian Cream Pie Day.

NEW HOLIDAY ALERT: I just learned of a new holiday, #Giving Tuesday, which is newly minted for 2012. Find a way to give something back to family, friends, community, the world. This new event will follow the overblown consumption of Cyber Monday every year.

Pins and Needles Day sounds like just another novelty holiday, celebrating either anticipation or that feeling you get when your circulation has been cut off. Actually, the holiday commemorates the anniversary of the opening performance of the only union-produced musical, called Pins and Needles.

If you've had enough pumpkin pie for a while, or if you've simply run out, try something different today in honor of National Bavarian Cream Pie Day.


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Monday, November 26, 2012

Cyber Monday, Day of the Covenant, Cake Day, more

November 26th, 2012, is Cyber Monday, Day of the Covenant, and National Cake Day.

If you didn't find all of your goodies on sale on Black Friday, or if you simply chose to avoid the crowds, take advantage of Cyber Monday. Many great deals can be found online, some with free shipping, and you don't even have to get out of your jammies to participate. Cyber Monday has been celebrated since 2005.

Followers of the Bahai'i faith celebrate the Day of the Covenant, honoring 'Abdu'l-Baha. He did not wish to be honored on his birthday, May 23rd, because that day already belonged to the Bab. But on November 26th, 'Abdu'l-Baha made a promise - the Covenant - that "in exchange for his followers' obedience He would ensure their unity and through them establish the Kingdom of God on Earth."

The holiday calendar features a bewildering array of specific cake celebrations, but today the choice is yours. Celebrate National Cake Day with your favorite flavor.


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Sunday, November 25, 2012

Shopping Reminder Day, Vertical Marathon, Stir-Up Sunday, more

November 25th, 2012, is Shopping Reminder Day, Vertical Marathon, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Feast Day of Saint Catherine, Independence Day (Suriname), Stir-Up Sunday, and National Parfait Day.  

As if anyone needs this holiday, November 25th is Shopping Reminder Day, to remind us that Christmas is exactly one month away.

Today's Vertical Marathon requires participants to scale 1,336 steps - that's 73 stories - of the Swissotel the Stamford in Singapore. Whew! I'm exhausted just blogging about it.

The United Nations sponsors the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25th. In 2011 UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote: "Violence against women and girls takes many forms and is widespread throughout the globe.... On this International Day, I urge governments and partners around the world to harness the energy, ideas and leadership of young people to help us to end this pandemic of violence. Only then will we have a more just, peaceful and equitable world."

Today is the Feast Day of Saint Catherine, patron saint of unmarried women, students, philosophers, craftsmen who use wheels, lacemakers, and milliners. French milliners parade their wares today, in honor of the single "Catherinettes" who wore special hats and made pilgrimage to Saint Catherine. According to fisheaters.com, women under 25 prayed, "Lord, give me a well-situated husband. Let him be gentle, rich, generous, and pleasant!" Women between 25 and 30 prayed, "Lord, one who's bearable, or who can at least pass as bearable in the world!" And those over 30 prayed, "Send whatever you want, lord; I'll take it!"

Suriname observes Independence Day on November 25th.

The Sunday before Advent is known as Stir-Up Sunday in the UK, because it's the traditional time to stir up a batch of Christmas Pudding. Christmas Pudding Day, as the event is also known, is losing popularity due to changing tastes and busy lives. Celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Raymond Blanc are trying to reestablish the popularity of the traditional dish. Here's Jamie Oliver's Christmas Pudding recipe.Seems to be a British equivalent of our much-maligned fruitcake.

If you've had enough pumpkin pie and such, enjoy an ice cream and fruit concoction on National Parfait Day. Don't forget nuts and whipped cream!


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Saturday, November 24, 2012

Small Business Saturday, Chitlin Strut, D.B. Cooper Day, more

November 24th, 2012, is Small Business Saturday, Buy Nothing Day, International Aura Awareness Day, Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day, Chitlin Strut, D.B. Cooper Day, and Evolution Day.

In the aftermath of Black Friday, give small businesses a chance on Small Business Saturday. You'll find unique items, great prices, and personal service.

While some in the U.S. observed Buy Nothing Day yesterday, in the UK Buy Nothing Day is today. Follow the action on Twitter via #buynothingday.

Today marks the 11th annual International Aura Awareness Day. It is possible, according to realityshifters.com, to energize your aura through visualization and meditation.

November 24th is Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day. If you have a unique talent that involves chitlins, by some crazy twist of fate, see the holiday that follows!

Salley, South Carolina hosts the 47th annual Chitlin Strut, featuring a Chitlin Queen, Hawg Calling, and the Chitlin Strut Idol Contest. Chitlins, or chitterlings, are pig intestines, usually boiled or fried.

Today marks the 41st anniversary of skyjacker D.B. Cooper's famous leap from a 747, wearing a business suit and a parachute, plummeting toward earth with $200,000 in cash. He has never been found, alive or dead, but the case is apparently closed. Today is D.B. Cooper Day.

Evolution Day commemorates the anniversary of the publication of Charles Darwin's Origin of Species (On The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or The Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life) in 1859.


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Friday, November 23, 2012

Black Friday, You're Welcomegiving, Native American Heritage Day, more

November 23rd, 2012, is Black Friday, Buy Nothing Day, You're Welcomegiving, You're Welcome Day, Sinkie Day, National Day of Listening, Native American Heritage Day, Flossing Day, TARDIS Day (proposed), Fibonacci Day, National Espresso Day, Maize Day, and Eat a Cranberry Day.

A personal note: Chances are, the folks who obsess over Black Friday are too busy shopping to read this, but I would urge everyone to scale back a bit. Must we force retail employees to cut their celebrations short in order to open their doors at 4:00 am on Black Friday or even on Thanksgiving evening? Just think about it. (Stepping down from my soapbox now.)

The day after Thanksgiving brings holidays related to the shopping season, notably the infamous Black Friday. Kudos to you if you camped out for days to get the best deal on a new flat-screen TV. No kudos to you if you elbowed people aside, used pepper spray (really, someone did that, last year!), or worse. Never forget the true meaning of the holiday season.

At the opposing end of the philosophical spectrum is Buy Nothing Day. Just relax, reflect on yesterday's celebration, retain your healthy bank balance, and stay away from the mob scene.

You're Welcomegiving (or simply You're Welcome Day) logically follows Thanksgiving, if you think about it.

The day after Thanksgiving also brings a food-related holiday. Brought to you by the International Association of People Who Dine over the Kitchen Sink, today is Sinkie Day! Enjoy those no-muss, no-fuss holiday leftovers.

National Day of Listening is the time to thank a special teacher by recording your experiences online. A U.S. map features states that turn brighter orange as more citizens participate.

Native American Heritage Day is always observed on the day after Thanksgiving, just as the National Day of Mourning is always observed on Thanksgiving.

Yet another post-Thanksgiving holiday is Flossing Day. The National Flossing Council asks everyone to "Help Spread Peace of Mouth."

A holiday has been proposed for November 23rd - TARDIS Day - commemorating the date in 1963 when the BBC aired the first episode of "Doctor Who." You can help, by signing this petition. Clever clever writers, creating a character who regenerates, enabling the show to go on and on and on, thus ensuring the writers' long-term employment....

1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21,... Today is the day to celebrate this odd sequence, known as Fibonacci numbers. Have you figured out the formula? Each number is the sum of the previous two. Happy spirals to you on Fibonacci Day.

Espresso yourself! Today is National Espresso Day. You might need to fortify yourself with lots of caffeine, if you're braving the throngs at the mall today.

The fourth Friday in November is Maize Day, honoring the importance of corn in indigenous cultures.

Eat a Cranberry Day always falls on November 23rd, but this year it's especially timely, because there's nothing better than a turkey sammich with mayo and cranberry sauce on the day after Thanksgiving! I don't think many people eat just one cranberry, as the holiday seems to dictate, although I did that once. When I was maybe eight years old, one of my friends swore that fresh cranberries were the yummiest thing ever. Yeah, she laughed while I puckered.


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Thursday, November 22, 2012

Thanksgiving, Day of Mourning, Go for a Ride Day, more

November 22nd, 2012, is Thanksgiving, National Day of Mourning, Turkey-Free Thanksgiving, Start Your Own Country Day, Go for a Ride Day, Feast Day of Saint Cecilia, Independence Day (Lebanon), and Cashew Day.

Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday in November in the United States, is about more than turkey, dressing, and pumpkin pie. It's about sharing your bounty with others and expressing gratitude for your good fortune. The first Thanksgiving was celebrated by Pilgrims and Native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

While many Americans celebrated Thanksgiving over the years, some Native Americans lamented their loss of land and culture. In 1970, a large group of protestors walked out of a Thanksgiving feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts, thus founding the National Day of Mourning.

Some choose to celebrate Turkey-Free Thanksgiving, but most Americans want to see a turkey or ham at the holiday table.

Start Your Own Country Day sounds like fun, but it also sounds like a lot of hard work. As leader, you'll have to name your country, keep a tight reign on your minions, monitor production, and create some new traditions.

On Go for a Ride Day, take a ride around your new country. If it's really small, that won't take long.

November 22nd is the Feast Day of Saint Cecilia, patron saint of musicians.

Lebanon observes Independence Day on November 22nd.

Go nuts today - it's Cashew Day! Cashews, grown in the tropics, contain mono-unsaturated fats, magnesium, and copper. They're also great with chicken.


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Sagittarius the Archer, November 22 to December 21

Sagittarius. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Everyone born between November 22nd and December 21st is a Sagittarius, the sign of the Archer.

For more information about Sagittarius:



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Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Tie One On Day, Hello Day, Pumpkin Pie Day, more

November 21st, 2012, is Tie One On Day, World Hello Day, UN World Television Day, Gingerbread Day, and Pumpkin Pie Day.

Tie One On Day is always celebrated on the day before Thanksgiving. EllynAnne Geisel, the holiday's creator, writes, "On the day before Thanksgiving...pause in the preparation of your own meal, wrap a loaf of bread or other baked good in an apron, tuck a prayer or note of encouragement in the pocket, and tie one on...an apron, of course! and deliver the wrapped bundle to someone without your bounty... a neighbor, friend or family member in need of physical or spiritual sustenance, a bit of recognition or just a kind word." What a lovely sentiment, invoking the true spirit of the season!

World Hello Day began in response to the conflict between Israel and Egypt in late 1973. To participate, simply greet ten people today.

The United Nations promotes UN World Television Day in recognition of television's impact on society, notably "alerting world attention to conflicts and threats to peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, including economic and social issues."

Ah, gingerbread. A quintessential holiday scent. Ushering in the holiday season is Gingerbread Day.

Pumpkin Pie Day is observed both today and Christmas Day, December 25th. Why not have pumpkin pie twice?


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Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Name Your PC Day, False Confession Day, Mallomar Day, more

November 20th, 2012, is Name Your PC Day, Absurdity Day, False Confession Day, Alascattalo Day, Globally Organized Hug a Runner Day (GOHARD), Universal Children's Day, World Day of Transgender Day of Remembrance, African Industrialization Day, National Peanut Butter Fudge Day, and Mallomar Day.

Today is Name Your PC Day. I never thought about naming my computer before. Hmmm. Actually, we have several PCs at our house, including desktops, laptops, even a tablet and smartphones. So many names to determine! For inspiration, check out this list of "Unique, Wacky, Beautiful Celebrity Baby Names." Some might translate to the PC.

Embrace the absurd today, Absurdity Day. Just starting now, to plan a Thanksgiving feast for a crowd, might be absurd.

I'm not sure why anyone would want to take the fall for a crime they didn't commit, but if you're of a mind, today is False Confession Day.

Alascattalo Day, founded by Steven C. Levi, is a time to appreciate humor - especially Alaskan humor. (That probably doesn't include jokes about Sarah Palin.) Apparently the date varies, but Alascattalo Day always occurs in November. The alascattalo is, believe it or not, a cross between a moose and a walrus. Who knew?

November 20th, 2011, is the first Globally Organized Hug a Runner Day, also known as GOHARD.

The United Nations promotes Universal Children's Day, a time to foster the well-being of children around the globe.

Transgender Day of Remembrance memorializes individuals who lost their lives in the past year, due to the intolerance of others.

November 20th is African Industrialization Day. In 2011, Ban Ki-moon, United Nations Secretary-General, wrote: "Approximately 600 million people in Africa still live without access to affordable and sustainable modern energy, and rely mainly on traditional biomass for cooking and heating.... As we mark Africa Industrialization Day, let us work together to achieve 'Sustainable Energy for All' and advance economic development and productivity throughout Africa."

If your sweet tooth is yearning for a special treat and peanut allergies are not a concern, celebrate National Peanut Butter Fudge Day.

If your sweet tooth is still calling out for fulfillment, celebrate Mallomar Day. Nabisco first introduced these marshmallowy, chocolatey cookie confections back in 1913.


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Monday, November 19, 2012

World Toilet Day, Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day, more

November 19th, 2012, is World Toilet Day, Have a Bad Day Day, International Men's Day, National Day of the Bible, Equal Opportunity Day, Gettysburg Address Day, Dedication Day, and National Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day.

Today is World Toilet Day. You're bound to use yours today, multiple times even, so take a moment to appreciate your easy access to sanitation.

Have a Bad Day Day is apparently the time to wish people a bad day instead of a good day. Celebrate at your own risk.

The theme of International Men's Day 2012 is "Positive Male Role Models."

National Day of the Bible is observed on the Monday before Thanksgiving. One recommendation of the National Bible Association is to meet in a public place at noon on this date for scriptural readings.

U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower declared November 19th, the anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, to be known as Equal Opportunity Day. The day is also celebrated as Gettysburg Address Day and Dedication Day.

Many of us need no special encouragement to consume cola beverages and such, but just in case, be aware that today is National Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day.


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Sunday, November 18, 2012

Mickey Mouse Day, Occult Day, Vichyssoise Day, more

November 18th, 2012, is Mickey Mouse Day, Married to a Scorpio Support Day, Push-Button Phone Day, Occult Day, William Tell Day, and National Vichyssoise Day.

Mickey Mouse Day commemorates the 1928 birth date of Disney's favorite mouse. Enjoy one of Mickey's most famous performances:



November 18th is a day of moral support. It's Married to a Scorpio Support Day! Answers.com recommends you spouses should "hide their household flowcharts." Nice idea, but your loved ones probably have extra hard copies or the original file on a flash drive. If you're the Scorpio in your household, try to relax a little.

Push-Button Phone Day is a time to remember when dial phones were the norm and push-button phones were a newfangled novelty - back in 1963.

On Occult Day we celebrate the weird, the supernatural, the magical. Feel that chill in the air? Shall we have a seance?

On this date in 1307, William Tell supposedly shot an apple off of his son's head. Today is William Tell Day. Eat an apple or practice archery, but please don't aim near anyone's head.

Here's a holiday I wasn't sure how to spell - National Vichyssoise Day. This famous French soup is made with leeks, potatoes, and (of course) plenty of butter. Ooh la la!


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Saturday, November 17, 2012

Black Cat Day, Unfriend Day, Baklava Day, more

November 17th, 2012, is National Black Cat Day (Italy), Surin Elephant Round-Up, Electronic Greeting Card Day, Family Volunteer Day, National Survivors of Suicide Day, National Adoption Day, National Unfriend Day, Take a Hike Day, International Day of Students, World Prematurity Day, World Peace Day, National Baklava Day, and Homemade Bread Day.

The Italian Association for the Protection of Animals and the Environment promotes National Black Cat Day, to stop the inhumane killing of black cats in Italy. Many believe black cats bring bad luck or are associated with witchcraft. National Black Cat Day is held on the 17th because many Italians believe the number 17 is also unlucky.

Thailand hosts the Surin Elephant Round-Up on November 17th and 18th this year, featuring the world's largest elephant feeding, known as the elephant breakfast, along with a parade, elephant tug-of-war, and elephant football.

November 17th is Electronic Greeting Card Day. Here are several great sites to get you started: 123Greetings; Blue Mountain; Rattlebox; Someecards; and WrongCards.

The Saturday before Thanksgiving is Family Volunteer Day, encouraging families to do good works as a unit, spreading good will and fostering family unity.

The Saturday before Thanksgiving is also National Survivors of Suicide Day, a "day of healing for bereavement after suicide in English, Spanish & French."

National Adoption Day, again always the Saturday before Thanksgiving, is a time to celebrate and support adoptive families.

Jimmy Kimmel, of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on ABC, is promoting National Unfriend Day. Use the opportunity to prune your friend list on Facebook if you want, but nobody actually equates online friending with real face-to-face, I'll-be-there-if-you're-in-trouble friendship anymore, do they?

Now that the weather is cooling (on my half of the planet, at least), some of us are becoming couch potatoes. If you're in that category, take a cue from today's holiday, Take a Hike Day. Conquer a mountain or walk your dog around the block. It's all good.

International Day of Students is a commemoration of student activism. In 1939 on this date, Nazis stormed the University of Prague.

To commemorate World Prematurity Day, the Global Alliance asks Facebook users to post the following as their status: "I honor the million babies born too soon worldwide who died this year and 12 million more struggling to survive. Join me on World Prematurity Day at http://on.fb.me/nartrr."

Don Morris, who goes by the moniker "Peaceguy," encourages everyone to spread the word about his cause on World Peace Day.

National Baklava Day honors one of my favorite sweet treats. Triangular layers of flaky pastry are laced with honey and nuts. Travel to the Mediterranean via its cuisine.

Nothing makes a house homier than the smell of bread baking in the oven. Celebrate Homemade Bread Day!


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Friday, November 16, 2012

Button Day, Have a Party with your Bear Day, more

November 16th, 2012, is Button Day, Have a Party with your Bear Day, International Day for Tolerance, Day of Declaration of Sovereignty (Estonia), and National Fast Food Day.

Today is Button Day. If the day is meant to celebrate the sort of buttons that fasten shirts and such, I'm good to go. I have a large collection of buttons, new to antique, to sort through and appreciate. If, on the other hand, Button Day  is meant to celebrate campaign buttons and other graphic messages that are pinned on, my collection is rather sparse. Then again, there are buttons on phones, buttons on elevators, belly buttons, and the "Easy Button" at Staples. Honor the button of your choice!

Gather your favorite teddy bear and your best tea party supplies. Today is Have a Party with your Bear Day! Stay home from work, if necessary.

The United Nations promotes the International Day for Tolerance on November 16th. In 2011 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote: "At times of change, we must stay true to the ideals and principles that are at the heart of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Among those core values is tolerance. Our practice of tolerance must mean more than peaceful coexistence, crucial as that is. It must be an active understanding fostered through dialogue and positive engagement with others."

Estonia observes the Day of Declaration of Sovereignty on November 16th, commemorating their break with the Soviet Union.

For better or for worse, today is National Fast Food Day. Depending on your point of view, pro or con, have a triple burger or look up some healthy recipes to prepare at home. 


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Thursday, November 15, 2012

Leonid Meteor Shower 2012

The 2012 Leonid Meteor Shower, potentially visible from November 6th through November 30th, will be at its peak on the night of November 16th through early November 17th. The Leonid is one of the most famous annual meteor showers. Every 33 years it puts on its showiest spectacle. The next peak will be in 2023, but this year's shower should produce 20 meteors per hour. The Leonid is visible in both hemispheres.

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. The small sliver of waxing crescent moon will allow good viewing conditions for this year's Leonid Meteor Shower.

Meteor showers are named for the constellation they appear to be near. The Leonid Meteor Shower appears near the constellation Leo the Lion.

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73; FreeDigitalPhotos.

Check out these sites for more information about the Leonid Meteor Shower, including recommended viewing times for your corner of the globe:



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George Spelvin Day, I Love to Write Day, Philosophy Day, more

November 15th, 2012, is the World's Biggest Liar Competition, Great American Smokeout, George Spelvin Day, I Love to Write Day, National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day, America Recycles Day, World Philosophy Day, Beaujolais Nouveau Day, National Raisin Bran Cereal Day, National Bundt Pan Day, and National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day.

Today is the World's Biggest Liar Competition, sponsored by the Jennings Brewery at the Bridge Inn, Santon Bridge, Holmrook, Cumbria, England. Or is it?

The Great American Smokeout, always the third Thursday in November, is a day to stop smoking. Stopping for even one day can lead to bigger steps, working toward a healthier life. The event is sponsored by the American Cancer Society, "The Official Sponsor of Birthdays."

George Spelvin Day celebrates an actor credited with many roles, spanning over a century. And furthermore, the actor in question doesn't exist! George Spelvin (or feminine variations) is a name used on theatrical programs to conceal the fact that one actor is playing more than one part. George Spelvin has dramatic relatives, including Walter Plinge and Alan Smithee.

On Guinness World Records Day, people across the globe attempt to set new world records. Follow the action on Twitter via #gwrday.

2012 marks the 11th annual I Love to Write Day. John Riddle, author and ghostwriter, founded this inspirational event. I'd say more, but suddenly I'm experiencing writer's block....

If I can't write, maybe I'll clean out my fridge. What's that green stuff, anyway? Guacamole? Soup?  Today is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day.

Now that the fridge is cleaned out, what to do with the empty plastic containers? Conveniently, today is America Recycles Day.

The theme of World Philosophy Day 2012 is : "Future Generations." Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, writes, "In celebrating World Philosophy Day, UNESCO reaffirms the power of philosophy to change the world, because it can help us to change ourselves - by giving weight to our indignation before injustice, lucidity to ask the right questions, and conviction to defend human dignity."

While you're philosophizing, how about a nice glass of French wine? Celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau Day.

Time for breakfast. Enjoy a healthy and delicious dose of iron, fiber, and calcium in a bowl on National Raisin Bran Cereal Day.

Now shift focus to a holiday featuring a hole, either in a cake or in a pan. Depending on your mood, celebrate either National Bundt Day or National Bundt Pan Day.

National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day celebrates a sweet and spicy cookie. If you bake these, you won't be alone for long, so who knows why they're called hermits?


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Wednesday, November 14, 2012

American Teddy Bear Day, GIS Day, Pickle Day, more

November 14th, 2012, is Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day, National American Teddy Bear Day, International Girls Day, GIS Day, Educational Support Professionals Day, Operating Room Nurse Day, Children's Day (India), Spriit of NSA Day, World Diabetes Day, National Pickle Day, and National Spicy Guacamole Day.

Here's the perfect holiday for a Monday - Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day. Take it to heart!

Even today, with fancy electronic gadgets and toys to promote every new family movie, we leave space on the shelf for a true classic. Celebrate National American Teddy Bear Day.

International Girls Day honors the potential within all girls. Encourage a special girl in your life. Share a skill. Read a book together. Maybe even give her a sweet teddy bear to cuddle.

On GIS Day, celebrate all aspects of geographic information systems.

The National Education Association honors all secretaries, classroom aides, maintenance people, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and others who serve our schools and students on Educational Support Professionals Day.

If you've ever had surgery, you know the importance of a well-trained, caring, conscientious staff supporting the surgeon. November 14th is Operating Room Nurse Day.

While many countries observe Universal Children's Day on November 20th, India celebrates Children's Day on November 14th, the birth date of India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharial Nehru, because of his love for children.

Spirit of NSA Day pays tribute to the National Speakers Association.

World Diabetes Day is sponsored by the International Diabetes Federation. Stay informed via Twitter, #wdd.

Who among us is unwilling to celebrate National Pickle Day? Pickles add a special zing to sandwiches, or they're great eaten right out of the jar. Besides, the founders of the unofficial National Pickle Day threaten we'll be, um, haunted by Queen Oniony if we don't spread the word.

Today isn't plain old National Guacamole Day. That was way back in September. Today, my friends, is National Spicy Guacamole Day. Be generous with the hot sauce and chiles.


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Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Diwali, World Kindness Day, Indian Pudding Day, more

November 13th, 2012, is Diwali, World Kindness Day, National Young Readers' Day, and National Indian Pudding Day.

India begins the celebration called Diwali today. It is also known as the Festival of Lights, during which people pray to the goddess Laxmi, hoping for prosperity and wealth.



November 13th is World Kindness Day. According to the World Kindness Movement, World Kindness Day is a time to "look beyond ourselves, beyond the boundaries of our country, beyond our culture, our race, our religion; and realise we are citizens of the world."

National Young Readers' Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday in November. Share a good book with your little ones!

National Indian Pudding Day honors a custard featuring corn meal, molasses, and sometimes apples. Oddly enough, Indian pudding seems to be an invention of the Pilgrims, not the Native Americans.


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Monday, November 12, 2012

Total solar eclipse on November 13 or 14, 2012

November 13th - actually November 14th, local time in Australia - brings a total solar eclipse. This one will only be visible in a small part of Australia, plus some open ocean if you happen to be sailing the seas. Enjoy!

Total solar eclipse. Image: pixbox77; FreeDigitalPhotos



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National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, more

November 12th, 2012, is Chicken Soup for the Soul Day, World Orphans Day, Elizabeth Cady Stanton Day, Birth of Baha'u'llah, and National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day.

Chicken Soup for the Soul Day celebrates the mega-successful Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, but feel free to indulge in a soul-satisfying bowl of actual chicken soup.

According to worldorphansday.com, every 2 seconds another child is orphaned. The second Monday in November is World Orphans Day.

If you like to flaunt your support of worthy causes, step into your favorite jeans today. It's Wear Blue Jeans on World Pneumonia Day Day.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton Day commemorates the birth date of a pioneer in women's rights. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony founded the National Woman Suffrage Association.

Members of the Baha'i faith celebrate the Birth of Baha'u'llah today. Baha'u'llah is the founder of the Baha'i faith.

Here's a fun holiday - National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day. The anchovies will live to see another day! Meanwhile, your pizza could include pepperoni, sausage, pineapple, pickles, herring, chocolate chips, whatever. Enjoy!


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Sunday, November 11, 2012

Veterans Day, Death/Duty Day, Remembrance Day, more

November 11th, 2012, is Veterans Day, Death/Duty Day, Armistice Day, Remembrance Day, Bonza Bottler Day, Martinmas, Independence Day (Angola), Independence Day (Rhodesia), and National Sundae Day.

On November 11th the United States observes Veterans Day to honor all veterans, thanking them for their service and sacrifice.

Death/Duty Day honors soldiers who died on November 11th, 1918, the end of World War I. The day is also known as Armistice Day.

Canada and other countries observe Remembrance Day on November 11th, honoring their soldiers present and past.

Bonza Bottler Day occurs once a month, when the month's number coincides with the date. Today is 11/11, in case you haven't noticed.

Martinmas honors Saint Martin of Tours. Many eat goose on this date, because a honking goose revealed the hiding spot of Saint Martin when he was hiding from clergy who wanted to make him Bishop. Old folklore holds that one can stand in the back of a church on Martinmas and see auras around the heads of congregants who will not be living by the next Martinmas.

Angola observes Independence Day on November 11th.

Rhodesia celebrates Independence Day today.

It pleases me when National Sundae Day falls on a Sunday. (In my part of the world, the dessert and the day are pronounced the same way.) Many other sundae holidays are on the calendar, including National Strawberry Sundae Day on July 7th and National Hot Fudge Sundae Day on July 25th, but today's sundae day is non-specific. Go crazy!


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