Today is Thursday January 27, 2011

National Chocolate Cake Day

Cake has been around since the discovery of flour thousands of years ago. Since these ancient times, a variety of cake recipes have emerged throughout the world.

In Medieval England, cakes were flour-based sweet foods described as breads. The words bread and cake were actually interchangeable for sometime among Neolithic villages. In Greece, cakes were heavy and flat and were called "plakous." During the Roman period, cakes were primarily used as an offering to their gods. These types of cakes were also more like a cheesecake or pastry. 

Today, cakes, breads, and pastries have all differentiated themselves and each are now in their own baked good categories. Within the cake category of baked goods there are a wide array of sizes, shapes, and flavors of cake. The most popular type of cake though is chocolate. From German, dark, white, and black forest, to even chocolate beer cake, it's difficult to pick just one type of chocolate cake to enjoy.

Celebrate National Chocolate Cake Day by heading to your local bakery or whipping up a chocolate cake in your kitchen. Then enjoy a piece with a nice tall glass of milk. Yum!

Today is also Thomas Crapper Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is Sundance Film Festival

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1888 - The National Geographic Society was founded in Washington, DC. 1943 - During World War II, the first all American air raid against Germany took place when about 50 bombers attacked Wilhelmshaven. 1944 - The Soviet Union announced that the two-year German siege of Leningrad had come to an end. 1951 - In the U.S., atomic testing in the Nevada desert began as an Air Force plane dropped a one-kiloton bomb on Frenchman Flats. 1967 - More than 60 nations signed the Outer Space Treaty that banned the orbiting of nuclear weapons and placing weapons on celestial bodies or space stations.

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Quote of the Day:
"It must be borne in mind that the tragedy of life does not lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. It isn’t a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream. It is not a disgrace not to reach the stars, but it is a disgrace to have no stars to reach for."

--Benjamin E. Mays

Today is Monday January 24, 2011

National Peanut Butter Day

Peanut butter is a common staple in over 90% of American households. It is also the most common use of peanuts in the US. On average, Americans eat about 700 million pounds of peanut butter each year!

Women and children prefer creamy, while most men go for chunky peanut butter. Did you know it takes 550 peanuts to make a 12 ounce jar of peanut butter? Peanuts are naturally cholesterol free and also are a good source of folate and protein. In fact, it is the high protein content in peanut butter that draws moisture from your mouth and causes it to stick to the roof of your mouth.

Peanut butter was first created in 1890 by a St. Louis doctor as a remedy for bad teeth. It became very popular with the doctor's patients, but the oil often separated from the grainy solids. In 1933, a California packer was able to homogenize the peanuts into a spreadable butter.

To celebrate National Peanut Butter Day, bake some peanut butter cookies, spread some tasty peanut butter on toast, or enjoy a spoonful right out of the jar!

Today is also National Compliment Day & Belly Laugh Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is Sundance Film Festival

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1924 - The Russian city of St. Petersburg was renamed Leningrad. The name has since been changed back to St. Petersburg. 1955 - The rules committee of major league baseball announced a plan to strictly enforce the rule that required a pitcher to release the ball within 20 seconds after taking his position on the mound. 1972 - The U.S. Supreme Court struck down laws that denied welfare benefits to people who had resided in a state for less than a year. 1978 - A nuclear-powered Soviet satellite plunged through Earth's atmosphere and disintegrated. The radioactive debris was scattered over parts of Canada's Northwest Territory.

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Quote of the Day:
"The only true happiness comes from squandering ourselves for a purpose."

--William Cowper

Today is Sunday January 22, 2011

National Pie Day

Though pies were first created by ancient Egyptians, it was the Romans who made them famous. Roman pies were often made in "reed crusts" which were used to hold the pie filling. These crusts were not eaten though as pie crusts are today.

During the 14th century, the first pie recipe was published by the Romans. This recipe was for a rye-crusted goat cheese and honey pie. Meat pies were also very popular around this time in England, as well as cherry pies and tarts. Pie recipes arrived in America with the first English settlers, who referred to pie crusts as "coffins."

Since then, pies have evolved into the most traditional American dessert. According to a 2004 survey, apple pie is the most popular type of pie followed by pumpkin and sweet potato.

Each year, the American Pie Council sponsors a National Pie Championship where the best pie makers in the United States and Canada compete for the Best Pie in America Award.

To celebrate the rich culinary history of pies, bake your favorite type of pie for you and your family to enjoy!

Today is also National Handwriting Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is Sundance Film Festival

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1789 - Georgetown College was established as the first Catholic college in the U.S. The school is in Washington, DC. 1849 - English-born Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman in America to receive a medical degree. It was from the Medical Institution of Geneva, NY. 1973 - U.S. President Nixon announced that an accord had been reached to end the Vietnam War. 1983 - "The A-Team" debuted on TV. 1985 - O.J. Simpson became the first Heisman Trophy winner to be elected to pro football’s Hall of Fame in Canton, OH. 1986 - The first annual induction ceremony for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was held in New York City.

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Quote of the Day:
"As I grow to understand life less and less, I learn to live it more and more."

--Jules Renard

Today is Saturday January 21, 2011

National Answer Your Cat's Questions Day

Every cat owner knows of the curious faces that their furry felines sometimes express to them. The cat's head tilts to the side as they stare with such interest and intent at their owners. These puzzling faces would make any cat owner  wonder what their cat is thinking at that moment. Today is the official day to put an end to all cat owners' uncertainty; it's National Answer Your Cat's Questions Day!

The veterinarians at the California Veterinary Medical Association compiled a list of answers to the questions that cats may be wondering in order to help cat owners understand their cat's health and behavioral tendencies. These questions range from whether or not it is okay for cats to go outside to how to prevent hairballs. So if you have a feline companion and you wonder why they give you looks of confusion, today is your day to find out the reason!

Today is also National Blonde Brownie Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1879 - James Shields began a term as a U.S. Senator from Missouri. He had previously served Illinois and Minnesota. He was the first Senator to serve three states. 1901 - Queen Victoria of England died after reigning for nearly 64 years. Edward VII, her son, succeeded her. 1938 - "Our Town", by Thornton Wilder, was performed publicly for the first time, in Princeton, NJ. 1961 - Wilma Rudolph set a world indoor record in the women’s 60-yard dash. She ran the race in 6.9 seconds. 1970 - The first regularly scheduled commercial flight of the Boeing 747 began in New York City and ended in London about 6 1/2 hours later. 1973 - The U.S. Supreme Court struck down state laws that had been restricting abortions during the first six months of pregnancy. The case was Roe vs. Wade. 1997 - The U.S. Senate confirmed Madeleine Albright as the first female secretary of state.

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Quote of the Day:
"Resolve to be thyself; and know that who finds himself, loses his misery."

--Matthew Arnold

Today is Thursday January 20, 2011

National Cheese Lover's Day

The immense popularity of cheese can be attributed to its delicious taste and versatility. Did you know that there are over 900 types of cheeses in the world? Each of them can be aged for different periods of time which changes their taste, texture, and aroma. 

Cheese has many health benefits as it is a great source of calcium, protein, and phosphorous. Furthermore, it has been proven that consuming certain kinds of cheeses such as cheddar, swiss, bleu, montery jack, brie, or gouda immediately after meals helps prevent tooth decay.

It is no wonder why there are so many cheese lovers out there. In 2003, a total of 8.5 billion pounds of cheese was produced the the United States. Not to mention the dishes made with cheese: grilled cheese, cheesecake, macaroni and cheese...the possibilities are endless!

Give in to your cravings today on National Cheese Lover's Day and enjoy your favorite cheese or cheese dish!

Today is also Tu B'Shevat & National Buttercrunch Day & Penguin Awareness Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is Sundance Film Festival

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1265 - The first English parliament met in Westminster Hall. 1841 - The island of Hong Kong was ceded to Great Britain. It returned to Chinese control in July 1997. 1885 - The roller coaster was patented by L.A. Thompson. 1929 - The movie "In Old Arizona" was released. The film was the first full-length talking film to be filmed outdoors. 1958 - Elvis Presley got his orders to report to duty from the U.S. Army. He was allowed a 60-day deferment so he could finish the film "King Creole." 1964 - The album "Meet the Beatles" was released in the U.S. on Capitol Records. It was their U.S. debut LP.

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Quote of the Day:
"The truth is that all of us attain the greatest success and happiness possible in this life whenever we use our native capabilities to their greatest extent."

--Dr. Smiley Blanton

Today is Wednesday January 19, 2011

National Popcorn Day

As one of America's favorite snacks, it only seems natural to have a day to celebrate popcorn! Americans eat about 16 billion quarts of popcorn each year. That's about 54 quarts per person!

Popcorn has been around for centuries. Indians used to pop corn kernels over fires and sizzling hot stones more than 5,000 years ago. Popcorn has come a long way since then: during the 1980's, microwaveable popcorn was introduced to the public and became an instant success.

Did you know that the quality of popcorn is based on a number of factors? These include kernel moisture, expansion ration, processing procedures, home storage, and home handling. To celebrate National Popcorn Day, make your favorite kind of popcorn and enjoy while watching a movie with your friends!

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1825 - Ezra Daggett and Thomas Kensett of New York City patented a canning process to preserve salmon, oysters and lobsters. 1883 - Thomas Edison's first village electric lighting system using overhead wires began operation in Roselle, NJ. 1949 - The salary of the President of the United States was increased from $75,000 to $100,000 with an additional $50,000 expense allowance for each year in office. 1953 - Sixty-eight percent of all TV sets in the U.S. were tuned to CBS-TV, as Lucy Ricardo, of "I Love Lucy," gave birth to a baby boy. 1957 - Johnny Cash made his first network TV appearance, on CBS' "Jackie Gleason Show." 1966 - Indira Gandhi was elected prime minister of India.

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Quote of the Day:
No one really listens to anyone else, and if you try it for a while you'll see why.
  - Mignon McLaughlin

Today is Tuesday January 18, 2011

Peking Duck Day

Peking Duck is a delectable dish that originated in Beijing, China during the Imperial Era. It became the Ming dynasty's favorite food in the 1500's. Since then, it is now considered one of China's national foods and its popularity has spread worldwide. 

Peking Duck is made with a specific breed of duck, the Imperial Peking. It is typically roasted in a brick oven which causes the crispy skin on the duck to melt in your mouth when you eat it. The meat from the duck is also cooked separately by another method such as stir fry. Peking Duck can be eaten with pancakes, spring onions, and either hoisin sauce or sweet bean sauce. 

To celebrate National Peking Duck Day, visit a Chinese restaurant to enjoy a traditionally prepared Peking Duck, or try to cook your own!

Today is also Thesaurus Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is Cuckoo Dancing Week

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1778 - English navigator Captain James Cook discovered the Hawaiian Islands, which he called the "Sandwich Islands." 1911 - For the first time an aircraft landed on a ship. Pilot Eugene B. Ely flew onto the deck of the USS Pennsylvania in San Francisco harbor. 1939 - Louis Armstrong and his orchestra recorded "Jeepers Creepers." 1958 - Willie O'Ree made his NHL debut with the Boston Bruins. He was the first black player to enter the league. 1973 - Pink Floyd began recording "Dark Side Of The Moon." 1996 - Lisa Marie Presley filed for divorce from Michael Jackson.

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Quote of the Day:
"If we’d only stop trying to be happy we’d have a pretty good time."

--Edith Wharton

Today is Monday January 17, 2011

Martin Luther King Day

This day serves to honor and commemorate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. It is also one of three federal holidays in the U.S. that celebrates an individual person.

Though it is a well-received holiday today, it took over 15 years for the government to approve Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday. Congressman John Conyers of Michigan first introduced legislation for a commemorative holiday in King's name just four days after he was assassinated in 1968.

As Congress debated over the bill, they received petitions containing over six million signatures of support. Public pressure for the holiday reached its peak during the civil rights marches in 1982 and Congress finally passed the holiday into legislation in 1983.

Today, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a celebrated holiday across the nation. Take the day and reflect on King's life and accomplishments and acknowledge all that he did for the Civil Rights Movement in our nation.

Today is also Hot-Buttered Rum Day & Kid Inventors' Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is Cuckoo Dancing Week

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1806 - James Madison Randolph, grandson of U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, was the first child born in the White House. 1912 - English explorer Robert Falcon Scott reached the South Pole. Norwegian Roald Amundsen had beaten him there by one month. 1945 - Soviet and Polish forces liberated Warsaw during World War II. 1997 - A court in Ireland granted the first divorce in the Roman Catholic country's history. 1998 - U.S. President Clinton gave his deposition in the Paula Jones sexual harassment lawsuit against him. He was the first U.S. President to testify as a defendant in a criminal or civil lawsuit.

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Quote of the Day:
"The only true happiness comes from squandering ourselves for a purpose."

--William Cowper

Today is Friday January 14, 2011

National Dress Up Your Pet Day

Does your pet have an impeccable sense of style? Well today is the perfect opportunity to show of their fashion accessories-- it's National Dress Up Your Pet Day!

Give your pet a full day of pampering today because after all, they are man's best friend and they deserve it. Head over to your local pet store to coordinate the perfect attire for your pet to wear or you can design an outfit for them on your own. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it is stylish enough for your pet's good taste and that it is warm enough for these cold winter months.

So go ahead and bejewel their collars, put pearls on their leashes, and coordinate the perfect outfit for them to wear today on National Dress Up Your Pet Day!

Today is also National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is National Pizza Week & Cuckoo Dancing Week

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1784 - The United States ratified a peace treaty with England ending the Revolutionary War. 1914 - Henry Ford announced the newest advance in assembly line production of cars. The new method reduced assembly time of a car from 12½ hours to 93 minutes. 1951 - The first National Football League Pro Bowl All-Star Game was played in Los Angeles, CA. 1954 - Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio were married. The marriage only lasted nine months. 1966 - David Jones changed his last name to Bowie to avoid confusion with Davy Jones from the Monkees. 1970 - Diana Ross performed for the last time with the Supremes during a show in Las Vegas, NV. 1973 - The Miami Dolphins became the first NFL team to go undefeated for an entire regular season.

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Quote of the Day:
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

--Anonymous

Today is Thursday January 13, 2011

National Rubber Ducky Day

The rubber ducky bath toy was first manufactured during the late 1800's as a way to make bath time more enjoyable for toddlers and babies. It has since turned into a popular bath time icon known worldwide.

Check this out: during a Pacific storm on January 10, 1992, over 29,000 rubber ducky bath toys from a Chinese company were washed off of a cargo ship. Months after the storm, about two thirds of the rubber duckies had made there way to the shores of Indonesia, Australia, and South America. Some of the ducks also entered into the Bering Straight between Alaska and Russia where they became trapped in the Arctic ice. The ducks slowly made their way through the ice at one mile per day and in 2000, they were spotted in the Northern Atlantic Ocean. Talk about some world traveled ducks!

Happy Rubber Ducky Day!

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is National Pizza Week & Cuckoo Dancing Week

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1794 - U.S. President Washington approved a measure adding two stars and two stripes to the American flag, following the admission of Vermont and Kentucky to the union. 1854 - Anthony Faas of Philadelphia, PA, patented the accordion. 1964 - The Beatles released "I Want To Hold Your Hand" in the U.S. 1984 - Wayne Gretzky extended his consecutive scoring streak to 45 games. 1986 - "The Wall Street Journal" printed a real picture on its front page. The journal had not done this in nearly 10 years. The story was about artist, O. Winston Link and featured one of his works. 1998 - ABC and ESPN negotiated to keep "Monday Night Football" for $1.15 billion a season.

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Quote of the Day:
"One can have no happiness in this world or the next but by extreme and vehement love."

--Sir Kenelm Digby

Today is Tuesday January 11, 2011

National Hot Toddy Day

What is more perfect to enjoy on a cold winter day than a delightful hot toddy? From the mouthwatering aroma of nutmeg to the warm, sizzling taste, these cocktails are guaranteed to put an end to your winter blues.

Hot toddies originated sometime during the 18th century in order to make the taste of scotch more palatable to women. It is also believed that the word "toddy" was introduced into Scotland by a member of the British East India Company because there was a popular drink in India called a toddy during that same time period.

Today there are many variations to the original hot toddy recipe including those with tea, coffee, cocoa, water, and apple cider. Besides alcohol, spices, butter, and sweeteners such as honey or sugar can also be added to hot toddies. To celebrate National Hot Toddy Day, brew up your favorite type of hot toddy and enjoy!

Today is also Milk Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is National Pizza Week

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1569 - England's first state lottery was held. 1878 - In New York, milk was delivered in glass bottles for the first time by Alexander Campbell. 1902 - "Popular Mechanics" magazine was published for the first time. 1935 - Amelia Earhart Putnam became the first woman to fly solo from Hawaii to California. 1963 - The Whiskey-a-Go-Go nightclub opened in Los Angeles, CA. It is recognized as the first disco in the U.S. 1967 - Jimi Hendrix recorded "Purple Haze."

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Quote of the Day:
"We can keep ourselves so busy, fill our lives with so many diversions, stuff our heads with so much knowledge, involve ourselves with so many people and cover so much ground that we never have time to probe the fearful and wonderful world within."

--John W. Gardner

Today is Monday January 10, 2011

Bittersweet Chocolate Day

Bittersweet chocolate is a sweetened form of dark chocolate that does not contain milk. According to FDA standards, bittersweet chocolate must contain at least 35 percent chocolate liquor. The more chocolate liquor that is added, the more intense the bitter flavor of the chocolate.

Bittersweet chocolate is available in several forms including bars, chips, chunks, and as a liquid. Research shows that daily consumption of bittersweet chocolate is actually quite good for you. It contains antioxidant compounds and flavonoids, helps lower blood pressure, and helps protect your heart.

So go ahead and eat a few pieces of bittersweet chocolate today and everyday to celebrate Bittersweet Chocolate Day!

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

This week is National Pizza Week

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1840 - The penny post, whereby mail was delivered at a standard charge rather than paid for by the recipient, began in Britain. 1911 - Major Jimmie Erickson took the first photograph from an airplane while flying over San Diego, CA. 1946 - The first meeting of the United Nations General Assembly took place with 51 nations represented. 1951 - Donald Howard Rogers piloted the first passenger jet on a trip from Chicago to New York City. 1969 - The final issue of The Saturday Evening Post appeared after 147 years of publication. 2000 - It was announced that AOL and Time Warner were merging. It was the largest media deal in U.S. history priced at $111 billion. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) approved the deal on December 14, 2000.

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Quote of the Day:
"There is only one success -- to be able to spend your life in your own way."

--Christopher Morley

Today is Friday January 7, 2011

National Tempura Day

This delicious Japanese style of cooking lightly batters and fries vegetables and seafood. It was first introduced in Southern Japan during the mid-sixteenth century by early Portuguese missionaries and traders.

Its popularity quickly spread throughout the rest of Japan and variations on the original dish also began to be made, using non-traditional and fusion tempura. The word "tempura" actually comes from the Latin word "tempora" which means time period.

The batter for tempura is usually made of cold water and wheat flour. Eggs, baking soda, oil, and spices can also be added to the mixture for extra flavoring. Thin slices of vegetables and seafood are dipped in the batter and then are briefly deep-fried in hot oil until crispy.

To celebrate National Tempura Day, try making your own tempura at home or head out to your favorite Japanese restaurant!

Today is also Harlem Globetrotters Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1782 - The Bank of North America opened in Philadelphia. It was the first commercial bank in the United States. 1896 - "Fannie Farmer Cookbook" cookbook was published. 1904 - The distress signal "CQD" was established. Two years later "SOS" became the radio distress signal because it was quicker to send by wireless radio. 1953 - U.S. President Harry Truman announced the development of the hydrogen bomb. 1959 - The United States recognized Fidel Castro's new government in Cuba. 1975 - OPEC agreed to raise crude oil prices by 10%, which began a time of world economic inflation. 1990 - The Leaning Tower of Pisa was closed to the public. The accelerated rate of "leaning" raised fears for the safety of its visitors. 1998 - Former White House intern Monica Lewinsky signed an affidavit denying that she had an affair with U.S. President Clinton.

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Quote of the Day:
"Often people attempt to live their lives backwards; they try to have more things, or more money, in order to do more of what they want, so they will be happier. The way it actually works is the reverse. You must first be who you really are, then do what you need to do, in order to have what you want."

--Margaret Young

Today is Thursday January 6, 2011

Three Kings Day

Three Kings Day, also known as The Epiphany, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the biblical story of the three kings Melchoir, Caspar, and Balthazar, who followed the bright star of Bethlehem to bring gifts to the Christ child.

Various countries around the world celebrate Three Kings Day and each have their own customs and traditions associated with the holiday that they follow. On the twelve days leading up to Three Kings Day, many children in Latin America dress up in king costumes and go door to door in their neighborhoods singing carols.

In Argentina, sweet wine, fruit, and milk are left outside the night before for the three kings and their camels to enjoy. In France, people eat galette des Rois, or "king cake," that has a trinket or bean hidden inside of it. The person who receives the piece of cake with the trinket becomes the "king" for the day.

Three Kings Day always falls twelve days after Christmas, also representing the Twelve Days of Christmas. Happy Three Kings Day!

Today is also Bean Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1931 - Thomas Edison executed his last patent application. 1952 - "Peanuts" debuted in Sunday papers across the United States. 1957 - Elvis Presley made his last appearance on the "Ed Sullivan Show" in New York City. 1963 - "Wild Kingdom" premiered on NBC. 1968 - Gibson patented its Flying V electric guitar. 1999 - The 106th U.S. Congress opened. The first item on the agenda was the impeachment proceedings of U.S. President Bill Clinton. The trial was set to begin January 7, 1999.

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Quote of the Day:
"There are two ways to meet life; you may refuse to care until indifference becomes a habit, a defensive armor, and you are safe -- but bored. Or you can care greatly -- till life breaks you on its wheel."

--Dorothy Canfield Fisher

Today is Wednesday January 5, 2011

National Bird Day

Bird watching has been a favorite pastime for millions of people for centuries. It can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere, regardless of their age.

A recent trend has developed that has threatened and endangered thousands of bird species: trafficking rare and exotic wildlife. Birds are among the most popular animals sought after in the exotic pet trade. Despite people's claims that they are working the protect these endangered bird species, most birds in captive breeding programs are kept there solely for commercial gain. 

The stresses associated with confinement can cause birds to exhibit a variety of abnormal behaviors including feather plucking, self-mutilation, excessive screaming, and other destructive habits.

In an attempt to put an end to bird captivity, Born Free USA, the Animal Protection Institute, and the Avian Welfare Coalition have teamed up in support of National Bird Day. Today, bird enthusiasts and activists around the United States are asked to take action on behalf of captive birds. Learn more about this day and what you can do to help!

Today is also National Whipped Cream Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1896 - It was reported by The Austrian newspaper that Wilhelm Roentgen had discovered the type of radiation that became known as X-rays. 1925 - Mrs. Nellie Taylor Ross was sworn in as the governor of Wyoming She was the first female governor in the U.S. 1933 - Construction of the Golden Gate Bridge began. 1934 - Both the National and American baseball leagues decided to use a uniform-size baseball. It was the first time in 33 years that both leagues used the same size ball. 1961 - "Mr. Ed" debuted. The show would run for six years. 1965 - The Supremes recorded "Stop! In the Name of Love." 1978 - Prince made his solo performance debut in Minneapolis, MN.

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Quote of the Day:
"It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is not possible to find it elsewhere."

--Agnes Replier

Today is Tuesday January 4, 2011

National Spaghetti Day

Who doesn't love a plate full of spaghetti and meatballs? It is certainly a worldwide favorite! In the year 2000, 1.3 million pounds of spaghetti were sold in American grocery stores. If all of those packages were lined up, they could circle the Earth nine times!

According to history, it was the Chinese who first invented pasta but it was the Italians who revolutionized this famous dish. Marco Polo brought the recipe for pasta back with him to Europe after his famous trip to the Middle Kingdom during the 13th century.

Over the years, Italians have invented a wide variety of pasta shapes and sauces to enhance the bland taste of pasta including farfalle, rotini, penne, torellini, and last but not least, spaghetti. Spaghetti is the most common round-rod type of pasta and in Italian, spaghetti means "little lines." Spaghetti is most often served with tomato sauce and parmesan cheese, but meat, garlic, oil, and pepper can also be added to it for extra flavor. 

To celebrate National Spaghetti Day, hop into the kitchen to make your old family secret spaghetti recipe. Enjoy!

Today is also Trivia Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1850 - The first American ice-skating club was organized in Philadelphia, PA. 1935 - Bob Hope was heard for the first time on network radio as part of "The Intimate Revue." 1936 - The first pop music chart based on national sales was published by "Billboard" magazine. 1958 - The Soviet satellite Sputknik I fell to the earth from its orbit. The craft had been launched on October 4, 1957. 1962 - New York City introduced a train that operated without conductors and motormen. 1981 - The Broadway show "Frankenstein" lost an estimated $2 million, when it opened and closed on the same night. 1984 - Wayne ‘The Great One’ Gretzky scored eight points (four goals and four assists) for the second time in his National Hockey League (NHL) career. Edmonton’s Oilers defeated the Minnesota North Stars, 12-8. The game was the highest-scoring NHL game to date.

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Quote of the Day:
"True happiness is of a retired nature, and an enemy to pomp and noise; it arises, in the first place, from the enjoyment of one’s self; and, in the next, from the friendship and conversation of a few select companions."

--Joseph Addison

Today is Monday January 3, 2011

Fruitcake Toss Day

Fruitcake seem to be the holiday gift that no one ever asks for, yet everyone always receives. Today is the perfect opportunity to finally throw away that holiday fruit cake, it's National Fruitcake Toss Day! After all, you never really wanted it in the first place.

Every year in Manitou Springs, Colorado there is a Great Fruitcake Toss in which people compete to see how far they can throw or hurtle their fruitcakes. People also use the cakes at this event to make little cars to race during a Fruitcake Derby.

The first Great Fruitcake Toss occurred in 1995 and has since exploded into a huge festival that people come from all over the country to attend. So go ahead and join the rest of the country today in throwing out your holiday fruitcakes!

Today is also National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

January is Get Organized Month & National Oatmeal Month

"Images and text courtesy of MyPunchbowl.com" -- http://www.mypunchbowl.com/

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On this day in History:

1823 - Stephen F. Austin received a grant from the Mexican government and began colonization in the region of the Brazos River in Texas. 1888 - The drinking straw was patented by Marvin C. Stone. 1938 - The March of Dimes was established by U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The organization fights poliomyelitis. The original name of the organization was the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis. 1951 - NBC-TV debuted "Dragnet." 1957 - Fats Domino recorded "I'm Walkin'." 1964 - The Beatles made their first appearance on U.S. television in a film clip shown on the "Jack Paar Show." It was a performance of the song "She Loves You." 1993 - U.S. President George Bush and Russian President Boris Yeltsin signed the second Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) in Moscow.

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Quote of the Day:
Everyone is a genius at least once a year. The real geniuses simply have their bright ideas closer together.
  - Georg Christoph Lichtenberg