16 April

NATIONAL BANANA DAY  

On the third Wednesday in April, take a bite of the fruit that also makes an excellent prop for jokes on National Banana Day!

National Banana Day

The day focuses on the nutrition of the fruit as well as the way comedy has used the banana in its acts. This low-fat, low-calorie snack offers a boost of fiber, potassium, and vitamins, with B6 and C leading the way. It also provides a healthy gram of protein, too. Add a banana to your morning cereal or grab one to go with your granola. They also add so much delicious flavor to baked goods. Many bakers know that when those bananas turn brown to toss them in the freezer for baking muffins and breads later.

As far as the humor goes, anyone goes a little bananas when they slip on a peel. Or is it the peel of laughter that makes them go bananas? Hold up the banana like a phone and get your comedy routine going.

How to Observe National Banana Day

• Write a little message on a banana and tuck it into your loved one's lunch.
• Add bananas to your lunch routine. They're inexpensive and delicious. Children and adults love them, so you just can't go wrong. 
  

National Banana Day History

The word is still out about who created this national holiday. However, we've sent out several bananas to track them down.

Banana FAQ

Q. What is a group of bananas called?
A. The cluster of bananas that grow on the banana plant is called hands (together they look like fingers on a hand).

Q. Are banana plants sterile?
A. The fruit of the banana plant is sterile. However, the banana plant is able to reproduce from rhizomes beneath the soil. The parent plant dies after it produces fruit, but the rhizomes will send out corms for new plants.

Q. How many calories are in a banana?
A. A medium banana contains about 105 calories.

 

Also

Bean Counter Day

Eggs Benedict Day

Healthcare Decisions Day

Orchid Day

Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day

 

Today's Thought

Live as if you were to die tomorrow.  Learn as if you were to live forever.  ~ Mahatma Gandhi

 

 04 Days until Easter

 

 

15 April

NATIONAL TAX DAY 

April 15th of each year is National Tax Day. In the United States, the term "tax day" refers to the day on which individual income tax returns are due to the federal government. The day may also refer to April 15th for state tax returns.

National Tax Day

The Federal income tax filing deadline is midnight on April 15th of every year, with extensions occurring when the 15th lands on a Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday. In those circumstances, the returns are due the first succeeding day which is not a Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday. 

These dates can differ depending on the residence as well.  Some years, due to extenuating circumstances such as natural disasters, more significant extensions have been granted by the Federal Government.

How to Observe National Tax Day

• Complete and file your taxes. 
• Quote Benjamin Franklin: Nothing is certain but death, and taxes.
• Save a copy of your tax return in a safe place.
• Give a shout-out to your tax preparer.

National Tax Day History

Income tax was first collected in The United States in 1862 to fund the Civil War.  It was deemed unconstitutional due to not being apportioned with conformity across the states. Once again, the United States enacted income tax with the 16th Amendment in 1913. At that time, the filing deadline was March 1. In 1918 the deadline was changed to March 15, and then in 1955, for the most recent change, the filing deadline was moved to April 15th.  The day has come to be known as Tax Day.

Tax FAQ

Q. What is the full quote by Benjamin Franklin?
A. A. Following the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, Benjamin Franklin wrote in a letter to French scientist Jean-Baptiste Le Roy: "Our new Constitution is now established, everything seems to promise it will be durable; but, in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes."

Q. I need an extension to file my taxes. What form to I use?
A. Visit irs.gov for a complete list of forms to request an extension. (not sure the irs link is still valid)

 

Also

Glazed Spiral Ham Day

Laundry Day

Purple Up! Day

Rubber Eraser Day

Take a Wild Guess Day

Titanic Remembrance Day

 

Today's Thought

Forget your mistakes and remember the lesson you learned.

 

 05 Days until Easter

 

 

 

 

04-14

NATIONAL EX-SPOUSE DAY  

Very few marriages end amicably. Each year on April 14th, National Ex-Spouse Day encourages those who have dissolved their marriage to forgive their former spouse and move beyond any anger or bitterness that may remain. And even those that do aren't free from angst or regrets.

National Ex-Spouse Day

For a wide variety of reasons, sometimes marriages just do not work out. Recent statistics show that the divorce rate for first marriages is at 50 percent.  Some people find that they get along better after a divorce than they did during the marriage. Unfortunately, all divorces do not turn out that friendly and the experience can be painful and traumatic. Regardless of whether it is a friendly separation, there needs to be a way to manage the situation when children are involved.

How to Observe National Ex-Spouse Day

• Come to terms with your divorce.
• Forgive your ex so you can move on. It's as much for them as it is for you.
• Find something positive about your ex-spouse that will help ease any lasting bitterness.
• Visit with other divorcees to discuss how they coped with their divorces.

National Ex-Spouse Day History

Reverend Ronald Coleman of Kansas City, Missouri created National Ex-Spouse Day in 1987 as a way to dissolve the bitterness that is often associated with divorce. In its inaugural year, Rev. Coleman offered buttons that read, "I'm OK - You're History," to help lighten the day. He hoped more people would forgive their spouses and focus on the positive aspects of their own lives. 

Ex-Spouse FAQ

Q. Is divorce on the rise?
A. Overall, divorce rates are on the decline. However, one segment of the population is seeing increased divorce rates - Baby Boomers. Called gray divorce, the divorce rate of those 50 and older more than doubled since 2015 according to Pew Research.

Q. Is there a better word than "ex" to describe an ex-spouse?
A. There are multiple ways to describe an ex-spouse. A few that illustrate the dissolved relation in a more positive light are:

• Former spouse
• Once-upon-a-time spouse
• Spouse 1.0 (2.0, 3.0 for those who need these options)
• Was-spouse
• wasbund, waswife
• Practice spouse
  

 

 Also 

Dolphin Day

Gardening Day

Look Up at the Sky Day

Pan American Day

International Laverbread Day

Pecan Day

Reach as High as You Can Day

 

Today's Thought

Practice what you know, and it will help to make clear what now you do not know. ~ Rembrandt

 

 06 Days until Easter

 

 

04-13

NATIONAL MAKE LUNCH COUNT DAY  

 

On April 13th, we have an opportunity to break a trend that has been occurring around the country by joining National Make Lunch Count Day.

National Make Lunch Count Day

According to a recent study commissioned by TGI Fridays, the majority of U.S. workers suffer from “FOLO” – otherwise known as a “Fear of Lunching Out.” Many workers eat lunch at their desk at least twice a week (73%) while one-third have lunch at their desk every day of the week. Don't fear lunching out any longer!

Taking a break from the workday improves productivity. That includes taking a lunch break. Leaving the office or even your desk for 20-30 minutes to refuel also reinvigorates your creative juices. Our brains and bodies need the daily break. When you return, you'll be refreshed and ready for new ideas and approaches to whatever your job throws your way. 

The observance is here to remedy FOLO and help American workers increase their creativity and productivity.

How to Observe National Make Lunch Count Day

• Break the cycle of FOLO. Get away from your desk.
• Join your co-workers and enjoy a real lunch with stimulating conversation.
• Share your favorite ways to make lunch count and promote them with your peers.
• Don't just do it today, do it every day! 
  

 

National Make Lunch Count Day History

TGI Fridays founded National Make Lunch Count Day in 2016 to remind American workers to get away from their desks for lunch.  

The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on April 13th, annually. 

Lunch FAQ

Q. What are some great ways to break the ice over lunch?
A. Getting to know your co-workers can be awkward sometimes. Great conversation starters include:

• What was the best movie you watched last year?
• What skill do you wish you had but don't?
• If you could travel anywhere in the world right this moment, where would it be?
• Everyone has at least one talent. What's yours?

Q. What can I eat to keep from feeling bogged down when I return to my desk?
A. Include fresh vegetables and lean proteins with your lunch. Restaurant portions tend to be oversized, so divide your plate in half and take the rest home for supper. Finally, drink water or tea instead of carbonated beverages.

 

Also

Borinqueneers Day 

(The 65th Infantry Regiment, nicknamed "The Borinqueneers," originated in 1899 as the Battalion of Porto Rican Volunteers, shortly after the United States gained control of Puerto Rico.) 

Peach Cobbler Day

Scrabble Day

Thomas Jefferson Day 

 

Today's Thought

It always seems impossible until it's done. ~ Nelson Mandela

 

 07 Days until Easter

 

04-12

NATIONAL GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH DAY 

Each year, National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day on April 12th recognizes one of the top comfort foods in the United States. Why wouldn't it be when we're talking about bread grilled to perfection, and warm, gooey, melted cheese. 

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day

According to food historians, many cultures around the world have enjoyed cooked bread and cheese since ancient times. The United States modern version of the grilled cheese sandwich originated in the 1920s. As sliced bread and American cheese became easily available, Americans began making open-faced grilled cheese sandwiches. 

United States government cookbooks describe Navy cooks broiling “American cheese filling sandwiches” during World War II. 

Grilled cheese sandwiches are versatile thanks to the ability to mix and match cheeses, bread, and seasonings. Adding sauteed vegetables or herb-infused oils can elevate this simple comfort food to a whole other level.  

How to Observe Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day

• Make your favorite version of a grilled cheese sandwich.
• Share the best cheeses to make grilled cheese. Do you use American cheese or do you prefer Swiss? What's your favorite cheese?
• Serve it with your favorite soup and sides, too.
• Layer it and make a double-decker grilled cheese sandwich. Add ham or bacon for extra flavor and variety.
• Share with us all the ways you make grilled cheese sandwiches or try this recipe below:

Baby Swiss and Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Prep:  5 mins
Cook:  5 mins
Total Prep: 10 minutes
Servings:  1

Instructions:

Slice 4 pieces of Baby Swiss, and 3 or 4 slices of ripened tomato.

Spread one side of each piece of bread with softened butter.

Heating medium fry pan and place 1 piece of bread buttered side down in pan.

Cover bread in layers with two pieces of cheese, sliced tomato, and finally second two pieces of cheese. Place second slice of bread buttered side up.

Families, take this day to the next level and make personalized sandwiches. Get creative with your grilled cheese by bringing out the cookie cutters. Imagine the fun the kids will have and everyone can make unique-shaped sandwiches. Don't fret about the crusts because you can dip them in your favorite sauces or soups. Try adding ranch, siracha or a dill dip. How will you mix it up?

National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day History

National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of the comfort food holiday.

Grilled Cheese FAQ

Q. What is a deep-fried grilled cheese called?
A. A deep-fried grilled cheese sandwich (yes, there is such a thing) is called a Cheese Frenchie (or Frenchee).

Q. What's the best way to make a crispy grilled cheese sandwich?
A. Grilled cheese is so delectable-crispy buttery toast on the outside, soft, gooey, cheesy center. How can you improve on that? Well, swap the butter for mayonnaise. You'll get a crisper, more flavorful, golden-brown exterior while keeping all that gooey goodness in the middle.

 Also

Big Wind Day

Colorado Day

For Twelves Day

Licorice Day

Only Child Day

 

Today's Thought 

Be with the people who bring out the best in you.

 

 08 Days until Easter

 

 

 

 

 

04-11

NATIONAL PET DAY 

National Pet Day on April 11th dedicates the day to those pets who may not always get the companionship and attention pets deserve. While loving our pets is something we do every day, the observance encourages helping out orphaned pet companions. It will improve their health and enhance their opportunities for adoption.

National Pet Day

Sometimes their human companions aren't well.  Making sure their forever furry friends are receiving the best of care will help relieve stress and worry.

National Pet Day is an excellent time to do a few checks for your pets.

• Go through your furever family member's toys. Throw away any items that are no longer safe.
• Maintain your pet-friendly home. Keep cords and toxins secure from your four-legged friends. This includes phone chargers.
• Verify when vaccinations are due and schedule an appointment to update if they are due.
• Check collars to ensure tags are secure and numbers are current. We sometimes forget to update this information when we move or change numbers.

How to Observe National Pet Day

• Take supplies to those pets in shelters.
• Help a friend with pets who is recovering from an illness.  
• Adopt a pet.
• Give your pets extra love with a bath and rub down. 

National Pet Day History

Celebrity Pet Lifestyle Expert & Animal Welfare Advocate Colleen Paige founded the day in 2005.

Pets FAQ

Q. What are some of the responsibilities that come with having a pet?
A. Pet owners know that some pets require more attention than others. However, each pet deserves to be given proper care and attention. Some requirements of pet ownership include:

• Feeding pets according to their needs. Most pets (like dogs and cats) usually need to be fed twice a day. Other pets may require more or less frequent feeding.
• Access to freshwater.
• A safe place to rest.
• Daily exercise.
• Routine checkups, vaccinations, and medical care when sick.
• Love, affection, social interaction.
• Training.
• Grooming

 Q. Is National Pet Day just for cats and dogs?
A. No. All our loveable pets can be celebrated on National Pet Day!

 

 Also

Living Donor Day

Barbershop Quartet Day

Cheese Fondue Day

Eight Track Tape Day

Submarine Day

 

Today's Thought

There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all. ~ Peter Drucker

 

 09 Days until Easter

 

 

 

04-10

NATIONAL SIBLINGS DAY  

National Siblings Day (also referred to as Sibling Day) on April 10th each year honors our brothers and sisters. 

National Siblings Day

Siblings. They are our best friends or our worst enemies. At times, siblings will provide us with our biggest competition, strongest encouragement and remind us of our most embarrassing moments.

Fictional characters describe those siblings best who are both rivals and yet best friends. From The Brady Bunch and the Cosby family to The Simpsons and the Piersons, television siblings tell our stories in humorous and dramatic form. 

However, real-life royal siblings Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret had a different set of rules to follow making their relationship quite different from anything we would call normal. Being a queen will do that. Queen Elizabeth's grandsons, Princes William and Harry and William's children, too have royal sibling relationships that engage the world. 

Playing fictional characters who are siblings and being siblings in front of a television audience must have created a different lifestyle for Mary Kate and Ashley Olson. Their older sister is Elizabeth. Another pair of sibling actors is Shirley MacLaine and Warren Beatty. And don't forget the exuberant Tia and Tamera Mowry. 

There have been plenty of presidents with siblings as well. George W. Bush has five siblings and William Jefferson Clinton has three.

How many siblings do you have? Are you rivals or do you support each other in all you do?

How to Observe National Siblings Day

• Celebrate your siblings and the times you've had together.
• Laugh at the awkward and ill-spent time in your youth.
• Catch up with your sibling(s). Enjoy looking at photos and videos of time spent with your sibling(s).
• Play a song or two from the 35 Best Sister Songs list.
• Share photos of you and your siblings.
  

National Siblings Day History

In 1995, native New Yorker, Claudia Evart, founded National Siblings Day to honor and celebrate siblings.  After losing her two siblings early in life in separate accidents, she knew how important siblings could be in our lives.

Claudia created the Siblings Day Foundation (SDF), a tax-exempt organization, whose goals included the establishment of the national holiday. Claudia selected April 10th in honor of her late sister, Lisette's birthday. 

Also

Cinnamon Crescent Day

Encourage a Young writer Day

Farm Animals Day

Alcohol Screening Day

Today's Thought

Don't let small minds convince you that  your dreams are too big.

 

 10 Days until Easter