National All Or Nothing Day

So, it’s National All Or Nothing Day. What does that mean? Well, you either do something fully, or not at all. Or, you either eat the tub of ice cream or you don’t eat any. You choose. Maybe you’re gambling, and you have a good hand. The possibilities for celebrating today are endless! I know this makes for a short post, but really I can’t really go all in, so I might as well do nothing, eh? But since I don’t want to cheap out on you, I ask that you all participate in today’s poll. Upon completion, scroll down and enjoy the wonders of O-Town’s National All Or Nothing Day Anthem. …okay, so it’s not actually the Day’s official anthem, but it is nostalgic, and that’s something I ALWAYS go all in for! 

National Merry-Go-Round Day

Happy National Merry-Go-Round Day everyone! 

A Merry-Go-Round, also known as a carousel is “is an amusement ride consisting of a rotating circular platform with seats for riders. The "seats" are traditionally in the form of rows of wooden horses or other animals mounted on posts, many of which are moved up and down by gearwork to simulate galloping, to the accompaniment of looped circus music.”

Fun Merry-Go-Round Fact: Most of the “horses” used on this delightful ride weigh 100lbs on average!

A little history…the very first Merry-Go-Round was thought to have been created in 500 A.D. This source of amusement was generally found in large-scale events and festivities, such as royal weddings, and state visits. This practice began in the 16^th century. It wasn’t until the 18^th century that Merry-Go-Rounds began frequenting fairs and less extravagant social events. Originally, there were no platforms, meaning that the animals would be attached to a pole. This model of carousel is referred to as a “flying horse,” because of the way the animals would fly outward once the ride began moving. Merry-Go-Rounds have decreased in popularity, particularly in the US – going from 4000 in the early 1900s to just 150 in the early 2000s!

Another Fun Merry-Go-Round Fact: In North America, Merry-Go-Rounds turn counterclockwise, while in Europe the turn clockwise! Be sure to vote on today’s poll! You can do so by clicking here!

National Parents Day

Happy National Parents Day to all of the parents out there! 

I was really excited to write this post originally, as I knew it would give me an opportunity to talk about my amazing Mom. However, just over two months ago, she passed away in an unfortunate accident. Learning how to live without her has been a constant struggle, but is not without its moments of humour and inspiration – just as she was when she was alive.

This is "The Mujjie" as I called her, taking a phone call from my brother when he was away from home for Christmas a few years ago!

The point of today is to show appreciation to those who either gave us life, or brought us up. Parents play an important role in shaping who we become. I was so lucky to have the Mom that I did. A single mother who often struggled to make ends meet, did so with such a positive attitude many, including those closest to her, didn’t even know! Look, I realize not all parents are as wonderful and supportive as my Mom was, but I have to believe that they try to do the best they can. Some are good at this, some are not. So, today, call your Mom and/or Dad and tell them how much you appreciate the sacrifices they have made for you!

Not to nag, but would you mind voting on today’s poll? Click here! 

National Gorgeous Grandma Day

Woot-woo! Today is National Gorgeous Grandma Day! And let me tell you, I am lucky enough to have had three beautiful grandmothers! Below is a picture of my Gramma (or Chez Gramma, as I liked to call her). She passed away a few months ago, but man was she a babe back in the day! Unfortunately, I don’t have pictures of my other grandmothers to share with you from when they were younger.

National Gorgeous Grandma Day is a unique and wonderful day to celebrate, I feel. It’s not very often that we take a moment to appreciate these special people. All three of my grandmothers were talented in their own way (only one is still living). The grandmother pictured above was an excellent crafter. She made teddy bears almost until the day she died. She was very gifted in this sense and to top it off, she would donate many of them to various charities and volunteer groups. To me, this is what made her so beautiful – her kindness. My Mother’s ma, is still loving, and she makes sandwiches every week for a local homeless shelter (something she has done for 30 years!). She also donates to many charities, and is an excellent baker. This makes her a beauty, on top of the fact that this woman was movie star material when she was a teen! And, finally my Nanny (my father’s mother) - she was a crazy Newfoundlander. She had the ability to make people laugh, and was so welcoming. What’s more gorgeous than the ability to create laughter?! It doesn’t take much to find the beauty of those around us…we just have to look for it and acknowledge it! What makes your Grandma gorgeous? Click here to tell us on the daily poll!

National Ratcatcher's Day

So, I have no idea what this, but Happy National Ratcatcher’s Day! 

Apparently, a ratcatcher is the “the occupation of catching rats as a form of pest control.” It is believed that this occupation began in Europe, but as a means of preventing the spread of disease. This role was important in particular during the Black Plague. There are several risks associated, as I’m certain you can imagine. The most prominent injuries include being bitten, and acquiring disease as a result. Here’s a recent documentary on this not so pleasant job!

Don’t forget to vote on today’s daily poll!