Look Up at the Sky Day, Moment of Laughter Day, more

April 14th, 2012, is Reach As High As You Can Day, National Look Up at the Sky Day, International Moment of Laughter Day, Ex-Spouse's Day, Orthodox Holy Saturday, Pan American Day, Children with Alopecia Day, and National Pecan Day.

Telescope. Image: Idea go; FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Dream big - today is Reach As High As You Can Day. Literally, stretch as far as you can. Figuratively, stretch your creativity. Feels great both ways, right?

On National Look Up at the Sky Day, take time to appreciate the wonders of the heavens. Which do you find more awe-inspiring - clouds, sunsets, or stars?

I've advised my daughter to marry someone who can make her laugh, because laughter makes the tough times easier. Find many, many moments to laugh today, in honor of International Moment of Laughter Day.

I'm so happy to be exempt from celebrating this holiday, Ex-Spouse's Day. If the day has meaning for you, please try to find some peace and common ground, especially if you have children with your ex.

Orthodox Holy Saturday is observed on the day before Orthodox Easter.

Pan American Day commemorates the date in 1890 when twenty-four American nations agreed to unite in one continental community.

Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss on the head and body. Learn how you can help on Children with Alopecia Day.

On National Pecan Day, have some pecans. The healthiest way, of course, is to eat your pecans as Mother Nature made them. The decadent way, which I love, is to eat your pecans in the fabulous dessert known as pecan pie.

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Friday the 13th, Plant Appreciation Day, Orthodox Friday, more

April 13th, 2012, is Friday the 13th, International Plant Appreciation Day, National Scrabble Day, Orthodox Good Friday, Baisakhi, Beauty Peace Day, National Ask an Atheist Day, Thomas Jefferson Day, and National Peach Cobbler Day.

Paraskevidekatriaphobics, beware! Today is Friday the 13th. Stay off of the the thirteenth floor, avoid breaking mirrors, stay away from black cats. Pull the blankets over your head and spend the day in bed, if you feel totally unlucky and vulnerable.

Do you talk to your plants? On International Plant Appreciation Day, celebrate by admiring plants, eating plants, or growing plants. Oh, and just breathe the air, oxygenated by plants.

Today is National Scrabble Day. Do you play small words strategically or aim for the eight-letter blitz?

Orthodox Good Friday is observed on the Friday before Orthodox Easter.

Baisakhi is celebrated on the first day of Vaisakh in the Indian solar calendar.

On Beauty Peace Day, ladies, go out and about without makeup. Show off your inner glow!

National Ask An Atheist Day is meant to promote friendly dialogue between atheists and people of faith about atheism and secular matters.

On this date we celebrate Thomas Jefferson Day, honoring the third President of the United States.

Run, don't walk, to your local farmer's market or fresh produce store and stock up on sweet, juicy peaches. Today is National Peach Cobbler Day.

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Walk on your Wild Side Day, Russian Cosmonaut Day, D.E.A.R. Day, more

April 12th, 2012, is Walk on your Wild Side Day, Russian Cosmonaut Day, International Day of Human Space Flight, D.E.A.R. Day, Support Teen Literature Day, Big Wind Day, National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day, and Licorice Day.

Be just a little bit daring today, in honor of Walk On Your Wild Side Day. Then report back if you dare!

Russian Cosmonaut Day honors Yuri Gargarin, the first man to experience space travel. His flight took place in 1961.The holiday is known around the world as International Day of Human Space Flight.

D.E.A.R. Day is also known as Drop Everything And Read Day. Please don't celebrate literally, but make time to include the joy of reading in your day.

Thursday of National Library Week is Support Teen Literature Day. This year, the Hunger Games series is a great place to start!

Big Wind Day commemorates this date, back in 1934, when weather surveyors at Mount Washington in New Hampshire, USA, recorded the highest wind velocity ever measured on Earth. The wind measured 231 miles per hour.

National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day is a great opportunity to enjoy a childhood favorite. Add a gourmet touch with a sophisticated cheese and whole-grain bread. Or just go retro and enjoy processed cheese slices on squishy white bread.

You either like licorice or you don't. If you do, celebrate Licorice Day! BONUS TIP: Fennel seed, which has a hint of licorice flavor, helps to make ground turkey taste like Italian sausage.

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Eight Track Tape Day, Barbershop Quartet Day, Cheese Fondue Day, more

April 11th, 2012, is Eight Track Tape Day, International Louie Louie Day, National Bookmobile Day, National Pet Day, Barbershop Quartet Day, World Parkinson's Disease Day, and National Cheese Fondue Day.  

Were you listening to music in 1964? If so, you're old enough to celebrate Eight Track Tape Day. Although, come to think of it, is there much to celebrate? Eight track tapes broke songs up in the middle and the players clunked every time they changed tracks. Memories!

Are you a member of the LLAMAS? Do you know what comes after "Three nights and days I sail the sea?" Are you a Louie fanatic? If so, raise a glass for International Louie Louie Day!

Wednesday of National Library Week is celebrated as National Bookmobile Day.

On National Pet Day, remember - "Adopt! Don't Shop!" We followed that motto when we adopted our Lhasa Apso, Shimmer. She's now the Official Dog of The Holiday Whiz.

Hey, Sweet Adeline, today is Barbershop Quartet Day! These days, barbershop has evolved into such things as techno acapella. Check out the incredible Pentatonix (which consists of five people, but who's counting):

Wear a red rose today in support of World Parkinson's Disease Day. Take time to learn more about this neurological disorder and support those who are afflicted.

National Cheese Fondue Day is the day to head to the Melting Pot restaurant nearest you for a cheesy gift.

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Encourage a Young Writer Day, One Day Without Shoes, more

April 10th, 2012, is Encourage a Young Writer Day, Siblings Day, One Day Without Shoes, Salvation Army Founders Day, National Library Workers Day, Golfer's Day, ASPCA Day, National Farm Animals Day, Equal Pay Day,  and National Cinnamon Crescent Roll Day.

Encourage a Young Writer Day is a fine time to plant a seed for the future. Have a real conversation with the talented little ones in your life. Ask about their short stories, poems, journals, and blogs.

I'm an only child and so is my daughter, but if you have brothers or sisters, please do something nice for them on Siblings Day.

One Day Without Shoes is meant to raise awareness about the importance of shoes. Children in poverty "live without proper footwear, exposing them to injury and disease every day." Could you make it through the day without shoes?

During the cold holiday season I admire the bell-ringers, wishing everyone a good day, asking passers-by to drop some coins in their red kettles. Thank you, Salvation Army, for everything you do. Happy Salvation Army Founders Day.

National Library Workers Day is your opportunity to thank the hard-working people at your favorite library. Consider, for a moment, how lucky we are to have public libraries, bursting with great literature, how-to books, computers, and more. Priceless.

Enjoy Golfer's Day on the green or on the Golf Channel.

On ASPCA Day, "go orange for animals!"

On National Farm Animals Day, take a moment to learn more about the plight of slaughter animals. Consider a veggie sandwich rather than ham.

Wear red on Equal Pay Day to promote equal pay for equal work.

Just thinking about cinnamon rolls, can't you smell that special aroma? Enjoy National Cinnamon Crescent Roll Day.

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Dyngus Day, CSS Naked Day, Jenkins' Ear Day, more

April 9th, 2012, is Dyngus Day, Easter Monday, Name Yourself Day, CSS Naked Day, National Cherish an Antique Day, Jenkins' Ear Day, Winston Churchill Day, Bataan Day, Baghdad Liberation Day, National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day, Appomattox Day, and National Cheese Almond  Cookie Day.

Dyngus Day, always the Monday after Easter, is celebrated in Poland and Polish communities in the United States. Men traditionally squirt ladies with water. Ladies retaliate today with water or tomorrow by throwing crockery. Yikes! Another name for this holiday is Wet Easter Monday.

Easter Monday features egg rolling races, including one at the the White House. It's also a great day to eat hard-boiled eggs and chocolate.

Name Yourself Day is your opportunity to express yourself. Try on a pseudonym and don't answer to your usual name. If someone feels snubbed, you can explain tomorrow.

On CSS Naked Day some webmasters disable CSS to promote high web standards. If your favorite site looks wonky today, that's probably the reason why.

On National Cherish an Antique Day, display your heirloom furniture, family jewelry, or yellowing books. Alternatively, call a friend who's older than you and razz them about their age.

On this date in 1743 a Spanish crew attacked a British ship, cutting off the ear of  master mariner Robert Jenkins. Years later Jenkins told his story and presented his detached ear to the House of Commons, inspiring a declaration of war against Spain. Thus, today is Jenkins' Ear Day.

Winston Churchill Day commemorates the day in 1963 when British Prime Minister Winston Churchill became an honorary citizen of the United States.

The Philippines observes Bataan Day, remembering the surrender of American and Filipino soldiers to the Japanese in 1942. Citizens retrace parts of the death march the prisoners endured.

Iraq observes Baghdad Liberation Day on April 9th.

April 9th is National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day. In 2010, President Barack Obama wrote: "America's former prisoners of war gave their freedom so that we can enjoy our own. We may never know the full extent of injuries received nor burdens borne by these heroes and their families, but neither shall we forget their selfless sacrifice and unshakeable resolve."

Appomattox Day commemorates the day in 1865 when Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant and the Union Army  accepted the surrender of General Robert E. Lee and the Confederates.

Today is National Chinese Almond Cookie Day. If you're always hungry an hour after eating Chinese food, add a few of these cookies to your meal.

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Easter, Draw a Picture of a Bird Day, Empanada Day, more

April 8th, 2012, is Easter, Draw a Picture of a Bird Day, All Is Ours Day, Hanamatsuri Flower Festival, and National Empanada Day. 

Easter is the Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. The date changes every year, based on a formula not many people understand. Western Christians observe the date on the first Sunday that follows the full moon after the March Equinox on March 21st. Orthodox Christians follow the Julian Calendar, with Easter usually celebrated one or two weeks later than in Western churches - April 15th in 2012.

After you've celebrated Easter, bitten the ears off of the chocolate bunny, and performed other necessary activities, gather your art supplies. Today is Draw a Picture of a Bird Day.

All Is Ours Day may take on a spiritual tone for some people today, but really, if all is ours, where will we keep it? Consider this great line by comedian Steven Wright: "I have the world's largest collection of seashells. I keep it on all the beaches of the world...perhaps you've seen it."

Japan celebrates the Hanamatsuri Flower Festival to honor Sakyamuni Buddha on his birthday.

Visit your favorite Mexican restaurant or concoct your own filled pastries on National Empanada Day. Lavesta at Months of Edible Celebrations recommends filling them with leftovers - brilliant!

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Pillow Fight Day, Tangible Karma Day, Beer Is Back Day, more

April 7th, 2012, is International Pillow Fight Day, Tangible Karma Day, International Snailpapers Day, National Love Our Children Day, International Beaver Day, Metric System Day, National No Housework Day, Beer Is Back Day, Legal Beer Day, 3.2 Day, Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Rwanda Genocide, Holy Saturday, Easter Even, Lazarus Saturday, World Health Day, and National Coffee Cake Day.

In 2008, the first Worldwide Pillow Fight Day included the first international flash mob. The event, now known as International Pillow Fight Day, features pillow fights all across the globe. Feathers will fly!

The first Saturday in April is Tangible Karma Day. What kind of karma will pillow fighting get you, do you suppose? The founders of Tangible Karma Day ask everyone - groups and individuals - to set aside an hour today to "purposefully become aware of the needs of those they are in contact with and actively do something to help fulfill those needs." Who could argue with such a sentiment?

International Snailpapers Day celebrates the survival (so far) of print newspapers. If you're reading this blog, though, you're part of the getting-your-news-online problem. Thanks, I think! Just for old time's sake, consider picking up an actual newspaper from a newsstand.

The first Saturday in April is National Love Our Children Day, sponsored by Love Our Children USA as a part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

I almost forgot that today is International Beaver Day. Dam!

Metric System Day promotes a system of measurement that's much more logical than the avoirdupois system and other customary units we use in the United States. When I'm president, we'll change that!

National No Housework Day is self-explanatory. Just don't do any housework. Of course, you might want to clean up the feathers after your pillow fight....nah.

While you're busy not doing any housework, have a beer! Beer Is Back Day commemorates the end of Prohibition in the United States, for 3.2 beer anyway. The holiday is also known as  Legal Beer Day or 3.2 Day.

Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Rwanda Genocide reminds us all of a terrible time in the history of Rwanda, 1994, when 800,000 people were murdered.

Holy Saturday, also known as  Easter Even, is the day before Easter. On this day, Jesus rested in the tomb.

The Orthodox Church observes Lazarus Saturday today.

World Health Day commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization in 1948. The theme for 2012 is Aging and Health.

What's for breakfast (or dessert)? Well, today is National Coffee Cake Day, so enjoy your favorite coffee cake, whether crumbly, fruit-filled, or topped with nuts. Delicious with a cup of coffee, as the name implies.

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Good Friday, Plan Your Epitaph Day, Caramel Popcorn Day, more

April 6th, 2012, is Good Friday, first day of Passover, New Beer's Eve, Plan Your Epitaph Day, Drowsy Driver Awareness Day, National Walk to Work Day, Tartan Day, National Student Athlete Day, Army Day, and National Caramel Popcorn Day. 

The Friday before Easter is observed as Good Friday. The day commemorates the arrest of Jesus, his trial, his crucifixion, his death, and his burial.

In 2012, Passover begins on April 6th at sunset. The observance continues through sunset on April 14th.

New Beer's Eve commemorates the feeling of excitement many experienced on the last day of Prohibition in 193, the eve of the day when the beer trucks would start rolling.

For those whose tastes lean toward the darker side, Plan Your Epitaph Day is a welcome change from holidays of cheer and encouragement. Here are some famous epitaphs and  amusing epitaphs for your inspiration.

California observes Drowsy Driver Awareness Day every year on March 6th. The rest of us should follow their example. Drowsy drivers are a public danger, comparable with drunk drivers.

The first Friday in April is National Walk to Work Day, which coincides this year with Drowsy Driver Awareness Day. Better to walk drowsy than drive drowsy!

National Tartan Day honors the contributions people of Scottish descent have made, throughout the history of the United States.

2012 marks the 25th annual National Student Athlete Day. Show some appreciation for the athletes in your life, and encourage young people to be physically active.

April 6th is Army Day in the United States, as proclaimed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942.

Sweet and salty snacks are so satisfying. Enjoy a much beloved flavor combo on National Caramel Popcorn Day.

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Read a Road Map Day, Fun at Work Day, Caramel Day, more

April 5th, 2012, is National Read a Road Map Day, International Fun at Work Day, Go for Broke Day, Poetry and the Creative Mind Day, Maundy Thursday, Holy Thursday, National D.A.R.E. Day, National Deep Dish Pizza Day, National Raisin and Spice Bar Day, and National Caramel Day.

National Read a Road Map Day takes me back to childhood, when phones were attached to the walls and music came on vinyl records. There is a certain charm to planning your route on paper, tracking it with a highlighter. Try it sometime, instead of using your GPS. [Insert obligatory joke about map-folding here.]

Shimmer, the Official Blog Dog of The Holiday Whiz.

The theme for this year's International Fun at Work Day is "Work Like Your Dog." Hmmmm. Right now, Shimmer the Blog Dog is taking a nap. Earlier, when she was awake, she ate some food and romped around the house. Most of us would be fired for such a work ethic, am I right? By the way, International Fun at Work Day is usually observed on April 1st, but it moves to the following Thursday when April 1st falls on the weekend.

On Go for Broke Day, take a risk, put some money on the line, but not more than you can afford. If you won the recent record-breaking Mega Millions pot, you're exempt from celebrating this holiday.

As part of National Poetry Month, today is Poetry and the Creative Mind Day. Try your hand at some creative rhymes.

Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, is observed on the Thursday before Easter. This day represents the last day before Jesus was arrested, the day of the Last Supper.

National D.A.R.E. Day brings attention to the campaign for Drug Abuse Resistance Education.

National Deep Dish Pizza Day makes me think of Chicago, home of deep dish pizza. Have some, if you love it - I'm a St. Louis thin-crust pizza kinda gal.

National Raisin and Spice Bar Day is a very specific food holiday. Somehow, raisin and spice seems more appropriate for fall than spring, but to each his own!

National Caramel Day celebrates a delicious guilty pleasure, fairly easy to make at home.

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Full moon names for April 2012

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for April 2012 takes place on April 6th or 7th, depending on your location. Following is a list of full moon names for April, ranging from common to surprising. Which names speak to you?

Sugar Maker Moon - Abenaki
Egg Moon - Algonquin
Full Fish Moon = Algonquin
Full Pink Moon - Algonquin
Full Sprouting Grass Moon - Algonquin
Indian Corn Moon - Algonquin
When They Set Indian Corn - Algonquin
Broken Snowshoe Moon - Anishnaabe
Big Leaves Moon - Apache
Moon of the Big Leaves - Apache
Ice Breaking in the River - Arapaho
Frog Moon - Assiniboine
Growing Moon - Celtic
Egg Moon - Cherokee
Flower Moon - Cherokee
Moon When the Geese Lay Eggs - Cheyenne
Peony Moon - Chinese
Wildcat Moon - Choctaw
Planter's Moon - Colonial American
New Spring Moon - Comanche
Gray Goose Month - Cree
Leaves Appear Moon - Cree
Big Spring Moon - Creek
Moon When Geese Return in Scattered Formation - Dakotah Sioux
Rain Moon - Deborean
Seed Moon - English Medieval
Migratory Geese Moon - Haida
Chaitra Purnima - Hindu
Hanuman Jayanti - Hindu
Month of Windbreak - Hopi
Kriblalikvik - Inuit
Time for Pounding Camas - Kalapuya
Bashch'atsishe daawaatra - Keresan
Leaf Moon - Kiowa
"Ipos" Gathering - Klamath
Ring Finger (counting on fingers, beginning with thumb in August) - Klamath
Halanyimcep - Kumeyaay
Black Oaks Tassel - Maidu
Grass Moon - Maidu
Moon of the Breaking Up of the Ice - Mandan-Hidatsa
Budding Time - Mohawk
Big Spring Month - Muscokee
Strawberry Moon - Natchez
Egg Moon - Native American
Full Fish Moon - Native American
Full Pink Moon - Native American
Full Sprouting Grass Moon - Native American
Big Plant Moon - Navajo
Awakening Moon - Neo Pagan
Spring Moon - Passamaquoddy
The Strong Month (When the Trees Begin to Bloom) -  Pima
The Yellow Month - Pima
Flowers Moon - Pomo
Leaf Split Moon - San Juan
Half Moon - Shawnee
Melting Moon - Shoshoni
Bak - Sinhala
Moon of Greening Grass - Sioux
Moon of Red Grass Appearing - Sioux
Ashes Moon - Taos
Budding Moon of Plants and Shrubs - Tlingit
Wattsuwim Muattsi - Tumpisa
Hare Moon - UnknownSeed Moon - Unknown Wind Moon - Wiccan
Planting Corn Moon - Winnebago
The 8th Moon - Wishram
Sewa Meecha - Yaqui
Big Summer Moon - Yuchi
Great Sand Storm Moon - Zuni

Sources for full moon names:

• Farmers' Almanac - Full Moon Names and Their Meanings
• Moon Names
• Indian Moons, Days and Other Calendar Stuff
• Hindu Blog - Purnima 2012 dates and time
• Spring Wolf's Pagan's Path - Full Moon Names
• About.com: Paganism/Wicca - Moon Phase Names in the Southern Hemisphere
• Willow Grove - Esbats & Full Moon Names
• Moon Names for a Full Year
• Wikipedia - Full Moon

More about the moon:

• Full moon calendar 2012 (for different time zones)
• Keith's Moon Page
• USNO Data Services
• Google Moon
• National Geographic - Moon Facts
• Calendars through the Ages - A month of moons

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Walk Around Things Day, Tell a Lie Day, Rat Day, more

April 4th, 2012, is Walk Around Things Day, Tell a Lie Day, Hug a Newsman Day, World Rat Day, Bonza Bottler Day, International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, Victims of Violence Wholly Day, School Librarian Day, Paraprofessional Appreciation Day, National Day of Hope, Independence Day (Senegal), National Chicken Cordon Bleu Day, and Chocolate Milk Powder Day.   

Walk Around Things Day is a good time to avoid tricky situations, unwelcome conversations, and holes in the floor. Walk tall, walk proud!

If there's a difficult person you can't walk around today, keep in mind it's Tell a Lie Day. Take advantage of this "permission" to be less than forthcoming.

On Hug a Newsman Day, don't violate your favorite journalist's space! A simple letter of admiration or a kind word will suffice!

Are you looking for a pet the neighbors won't like? They'll probably stay away if they know you're harboring rats. Do what you must on World Rat Day.

Bonza Bottler Day comes once a month, when the month and date are represented by the same number. Celebrate on 4/4!

On the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "On this International Day, I call for universal adherence to these important treaties and for increased support for mine awareness and mine action. Landmines and explosive remnants of war hamper development and endanger lives. Let's eliminate them together for a safe sustainable world."

Victims of Violence Wholly Day is one of three Days of Respect which honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., along with Humanitarian Day and Dream Day Quest and Jubilee. Dr. King was assassinated on this date in 1968.

Show some appreciation for the professional who helps you find the coolest books in school on School Librarian Day.

The first Wednesday in April is Paraprofessional Appreciation Day. Paraprofessionals assist in schools by tutoring, translating, and providing other important services.

The first Wednesday in April is also the National Day of Hope. Do your part to bring hope to the lives of abused children.

Senegal observes Independence Day on this date.

Are you in the mood for something decadent, cheesy, and French? Ooh la la - today is National Chicken Cordon Bleu Day.

Chocolate milk probably isn't compatible with chicken cordon bleu, but please enjoy a chocolaty beverage or pudding at some point on Chocolate Milk Powder Day.

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World Party Day, Free Cone Day, Find a Rainbow Day, more

April 3rd, 2012, is Don't Go to Work Unless It's Fun Day, World Party Day, Free Cone Day, Find a Rainbow Day, Tweed Day, and Chocolate Mousse Day.

Today is Don't Go to Work Unless It's Fun Day. Good luck observing this holiday! Even if your job isn't the most enjoyable, keep in mind that getting a paycheck is lotsa fun.

Wooooo Hooooo.....what a geat day to skip work! Today is World Party Day! And yet, this holiday has a deeper, noble purpose - promoting world peace. Who am I to argue with that?

Today only, from noon to 8:00 in the evening, visit your local Ben and Jerry's for free ice cream or Greek Frozen Yogurt! Celebrate Free Cone Day!

Groooovy......while you enjoy your free ice cream, see the rainbows floating all around. You'll see the most rainbows if you order Cherry Garcia! Today happens to be Find a Rainbow Day.

Tweed Day isn't about fashion. It is the birth date of Boss Tweed, a man renowned for political corruption. Not sure how - or if - this day should be celebrated.

After a day of partying, skipping work, enjoying free ice cream, and chasing rainbows, relax with a sweet dessert in honor of Chocolate Mousse Day. Let the sugar rush continue!

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Great Lovers Day, Reconciliation Day, Ferret Day, more

April 2nd, 2012, is Great Lovers Day, Reconciliation Day, Tater Day, International Children's Book Day, National Ferret Day, World Autism Awareness Day, and National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day.

On Great Lovers Day, enjoy my Top Ten Romantic Movie Quotes! Once inspired, get romantic with the one you love.

Reconciliation Day is a golden opportunity to reach out to someone you love - that someone who causes you to feel a pang of regret whenever you hear their name. Let bygones be bygones! You'll both be happier; your lives will be enriched.

Benton, Kentucky, hosts Tater Day, honoring the sweet potato, on the first Monday in April.

International Children's Book Day is meant to foster a love of books in young people. Help your children explore new worlds and develop a rewarding life-long habit.

National Ferret Day celebrates all things ferret. That's great - just not in my house!

The Fifth Annual World Autism Awareness Day is designed to rasie both funds and awareness about autism, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 88 American children.

Have a classic brown-bag-lunch staple on National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day. Your personality can shine through in your choice of jelly!

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April 2012 month-long celebrations

April showers bring May flowers, so they say; April brings a fresh array of celebrations. Check the following list for inspiration! Month-long events are listed alphabetically, with descriptive words such as "National" and "World" omitted.

African American Women's Fitness Month
Alcohol Awareness Month
Amateur Radio Month
Autism Awareness Month

BLT Sandwich Month
Cancer Control Month
Car Care Month
Card and Letter Writing Month
CDC Fruit of the Month - Asian Pear
CDC Vegetable of the Month - Tomatillo
Celebrate Diversity Month
Cesarean Awareness Month

Cherry Blossom Festival - March 20th to April 27th
Child Abuse Prevention Month
Child Nutrition Month
Confederate History Month
Counseling Awareness Month
Couples Appreciation Month
Customer Loyalty Month
Daffodil Month - cancer awareness
Daffynitions Month
Deaf History Month - March 13th to April 15th
Decorating Month
Defeat Diabetes Month
Donate Life Month
Earth Month
Emotional Overeating Awareness Month
Facial Protection Month
Fair Housing Month
Financial Literacy Month
Foot Health Awareness Month
Foot Health Issues Related to Diabetes Awareness Month
Fresh Celery Month
Fresh Florida Tomato Month
Frog Month
Garden Month
Grange Month
Great Lent (Orthodox) - February 27th to April 15th
Grilled Cheese Month
Guitar Month
Habitat Awareness Month
Holy Humor Month
Home Improvement Month
Humor Month
Informed Women Month
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Month
Jazz Appreciation Month
Keep America Beautiful Month
Kite Month

Knuckles Down Month
Landscape Architecture Month
Lawn and Garden Month
Lent - February 22nd to April 5th
Mathematics Awareness Month - 2012 Theme: Mathematics, Statistics, and the Data Deluge
Minority Health Month
Month of the Military Child
Multiple Birth Awareness Month
Occupational Therapy Month
Parkinson's Awareness Month
Pecan Month
Pet First Aid Awareness Month
Pharmacists War on Diabetes Month
Physical Wellness Month
Poetry Month
Prepare Your Home to be SOLD Month
Prevent Lyme in Dogs Month
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month
Records and Information Management Month
Rosacea Awareness Month
Sarcoidosis Awareness Month
School Library Media Month
School Library Month

Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Month
Soft Pretzel Month
Soyfoods Month
Straw Hat Month
Stress Awareness Month
Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
Thai Heritage Month
Twit Award Month
Welding Month
Women's Eye Health and Safety Month
Woodworking Month
Workplace Conflict Awareness Month
Youth Sports Safety Month

If you know of other month-long celebrations that should be included in this list, please provide info in the Comments section below. Have an Amazing April!

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April Fool's Day, Edible Book Festival, Palm Sunday, more

April 1st, 2012, is April Fool's Day, International Edible Book Festival, Reading Is Funny Day, Saint Stupid's Day, Boomer Bonus Day, International Tongue Twister Day, Poetry and the Creative Mind Day, Fun at Work Day, Tatting Day, Palm Sunday, Passion Sunday, Athiest Day, Independence Day (Iran), National Lupus Alert Day, and National Sourdough Bread Day.   

Look out - whoopie cushions might be in your future today. Someone might tell you your zipper is down, or that you missed an important meeting. Grin and bear it, or plot your revenge, because today is April Fool's Day.

April 1st is the birth date of Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin. He wrote Physiologie du gout, a celebrated book about food. Combine April Fool's Day with a love of food and books, and the result is the International Edible Book Festival. Impress your loved ones by concocting an edible tome!

Teach your children that reading is not only fun, but sometimes even funny! Visit your library for a great selection of riddle and joke books on Reading Is Funny Day.

2012 brings the 28st - make that the 34nd - Annual Saint Stupid's Day Parade in San Francisco. If you're in the area and not too stupid to find your way, have a happy Saint Stupid's Day.

Boomer Bonus Day honors those of us who were born between 1946 and 1964, give or take a year. We are the baby boomers, the boomies (Canada), the bulge (UK) - hear us roar!

On International Tongue Twister Day, ask yourself, "where are our oars?"

Let your imagination soar on Poetry and the Creative Mind Day. Feel free to share your work in the Comments section below!

Some say April 1st is Fun at Work Day; others say the holiday occurs on January 25th, January 28th, or January 29th. Anyway, today is Sunday and many people have the day off.
Try your hand at a retro craft - lacemaking - on Tatting Day.

Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, is the Sunday before Easter. People wave palm branches and sing songs, reenacting the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.

Ironically or intentionally, April Fool's Day is also Athiest Day. (Insert your own joke or snide comment here, if you must.) No matter what deity, if any, each of us may embrace, we share the same small blue planet. Our creator, if any, would most likely be pleased if we somehow learn to live in peace.

Iran observes Independence Day on this date.

On National Lupus Alert Day, everyone is encouraged to take the Lupus Quiz. Lupus, which is difficult to diagnose, causes the immune system to attack healthy body tissue.

If you're not feeling too foolish to get near an oven, bake up a loaf of goodness on National Sourdough Bread Day.

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Earth Hour, Coloring Crayola Day, Terri's Day, more

March 31st, 2012, is Earth Hour, Bunsen Burner Day, National "She's Funny That Way" Day, Take Your Parents to the Playground Day, Coloring Crayola Day, Terri's Day, Brother and Sister Day, Cesar Chavez Day, National Clams on the Half Shell Day, and Oranges and Lemons Day.

At 8:30 p.m., your local time, participate in Earth Hour by turning off lights you don't need and unplugging devices you aren't using. If everyone participates, all around the world, think what this will look like from a great distance - very hour, different sections of our planet going dark(er). Also, consider the energy saved!

Remember that thingamabob with the flame that we all used in science class, back in the day? Today we celebrate the birth date of Robert Wilhelm Eberhard von Bunsen, the inventor of that thingamabob. Celebrate Bunsen Burner Day.

National "She's Funny That Way" Day means whatever you want it to mean. I refuse to offer any guidance, because sometimes I'm funny that way.

Take Your Parents to the Playground Day is the perfect opportunity to have some retro fun. With your parents, your kids, or a loved one, go to the nearest playground. Swing on the swings, play in the sandbox, hang from the monkey bars, all that good stuff. Wheeee!

If your parents absolutely refuse to go to the playground with you, ask them to join you in observing Coloring Crayola Day. It's the least they could do. If your parents aren't around, get in touch with your inner child anyway, or spend time coloring with your own kids.

Terri's Day is observed on this date each year, in the memory of Terri Schiavo. Following her collapse in February 1990, she fell into a vegetative state. She was at the center of a legal battle and national debate, involving those who wanted her to remain on prolonged life support vs. those who believed in her right to die. Terri Schiavo passed away on March 31st, 2005, following removal of her feeding tube almost fourteen days prior.

Brother and Sister Day is a time to do something special for your siblings, if you have them. As an only child, I'll cheer from the sidelines.

Cesar Chavez Day celebrates the life of a prominent social activist who fought against discrimination. The work of Cesar Chavez is continued today by the Cesar Chavez Foundation.

National Clams on the Half Shell Day isn't for everyone, but try to expand your culinary horizons! You might discover a new favorite food.

Citrus is a wonderful accent for seafood. Luckily, today is Oranges and Lemons Day.

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Pencil Day, The Grass Is Always Browner on the Other Side of the Fence Day, more

March 30th, 2012, is National Pencil Day, I Am in Control Day, The Grass Is Always Browner on the Other Side of the Fence Day, Take a Walk in the Park Day, National Doctors' Day, and Turkey Neck Soup Day. 

Do pencils make you think of SAT Tests and elementary-school penmanship lessons? Well, pencils are good for more than that. Pencils come in an array of lead types - soft to hard, across the color spectrum - to help you unleash your artistic talent. Some pencils actually contain watercolor paint! Browse your local art supply store on National Pencil Day and get inspired.

I Am in Control Day is in remembrance of Alexander Haig, U.S. Secretary of State back in 1981, who promised the country he was in control following an assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. Haig was eventually forced to resign. The lesson here: maintain quiet control, under the radar, so people aren't tempted to thwart your schemes!

The key to happiness is learning to appreciate what you have, rather than comparing your life with others'. After all, the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Adopt a new philosophy on The Grass Is Always Browner on the Other Side of the Fence Day.

Go where the grass is always greener - your local park. Weather permitting, celebrate Take a Walk in the Park Day.

National Doctors' Day is your opportunity to take stock. Are you satisfied with the service your physician provides? Would you recommend him or her to a friend? If so, make a pledge to thank your doctor the next time you visit. If not, ask friends and family for a referral.

Nothing - with the possible exception of fresh bread - makes a house smell more like a home than a pot of homemade soup simmering on the stove. Concoct a soup that's nutritious, delicious, and inexpensive on Turkey Neck Soup Day.

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Smoke and Mirrors Day, Mom and Pop Business Owners Day, more

March 29th, 2012, is Smoke and Mirrors Day, National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day, Knights of Columbus Founders Day, Lemon Chiffon Cake Day, and Lemon Chiffon Pie Day.

Today is Smoke and Mirrors Day. Or is it? Even the origins of this murky holiday are vague. Feel free to be evasive in your conversations today - unless you're doing something important, such as testifying under oath.

Just for today, try buying your veggies, your hardware, your shoes, or your thingamabobs from a small local business, rather than from a chain store. If you like the price and service, consider a permanent change in your shopping habits. Help your neighbors by embracing National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day.

Knights of Columbus Founders Day commemorates the 1882 founding and subsequent history of the Knights of Columbus. Their good works are structured within four core principles: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.

Take your choice today, when planning dessert. Some say it's Lemon Chiffon Cake Day; others say it's Lemon Chiffon Pie Day. Either way, you'll have a sweet, lemony delight.

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Eggsibit Day, Hot Tub Day, Something on a Stick Day, more

March 28th, 2012, is Eggsibit Day, Hot Tub Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, Teachers' Day (Czech Republic), Something on a Stick Day, and National Black Forest Cake Day.

Eggsibit Day features a pun - eggsibit - that explains all: an exhibit of eggs. Try your hand at egg decoration or view fine examples online.

Dandelion. Image: morgueFile.

If you have enough self-restraint, grant your weeds a reprieve on Weed Appreciation Day. Tomorrow is another day! Besides, some weeds are actually attractive. Try to relax, let go of your OCD, and relax with a glass of iced tea.

If you have a hot tub, you're all set to celebrate Hot Tub Day. If you don't, treat yourself to a spa visit or just enjoy a long and decadent bubble bath with candles (and perhaps chocolate).

Today is Gone-ta-Pott Day, as proclaimed by the cheerful people who run the Gone-ta-Pott website. Celebrate this holiday as you see fit, on the 28th of every month.

The Czech Republic observes Teachers' Day today. Children make cards for their favorite teachers; some teachers organize demonstrations to demand higher wages.

Even though you may not visit a carnival today, feel free to enjoy something on a stick. Options include corn dogs, cotton candy, kebabs, satay, fondue dippers, and so much more. Use your imagination! Have an adventurous and fabulous Something on a Stick Day.

What's for dessert tonight? Why not enjoy a Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte in honor of National Black Forest Cake Day? You will love the combination of chocolate cake, cherries, whipped cream, and possibly cherry liqueur. Kostlicher Kuchen! Delicious cake!

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Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day, National "Joe" Day, more

March 27th, 2012, is Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day, National "Joe" Day, American Diabetes Association Alert! Day, and National Spanish Paella Day.

Music. Image: FreeDigitalPhotos, digitalart.

Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day is your opportunity to get creative. What's your dream country music song title? How about "My Hound Dog Ran Off with my Gal and my Truck?"

Today is a great day for me, since I have trouble remembering people's names. Today - and today only - it's acceptable to call anyone you meet, "Joe." Embrace the convenience of National "Joe" Day!

The fourth Tuesday in March is American Diabetes Association Alert! Day. Everyone is encouraged to take an assessment, to determine their risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

National Spanish Paella Day honors a delicious one-pot meal. Ingredients vary, so look at a few recipes and concoct a paella your family will love.

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Make Up Your Own Holiday Day, Purple Day, more

March 26th, 2012, is Make Up Your Own Holiday Day, Purple Day, Independence Day (Bangladesh), National Spinach Day, and National Nougat Day.

Is today Plaid Sofa Day or Eat More Onion Sandwiches Day? Yes, if you want it to be, because today is Make Up Your Own Holiday Day. Post your suggestions in the Comments section below!

Purple Day is the Global Day of Epilepsy Awareness. Show your support and learn more about this chronic disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100 people.

Bangladesh observes Independence Day on March 26, celebrating independence from Pakistan since 1971.

Whether you prefer your spinach raw or cooked, have a serving of this leafy green on National Spinach Day. I promise you will not develop bulging forearms like Popeye.

National Nougat Day honors a mysterious candy bar filling. No matter what it's made from, it is delicious. Just for today ignore the nutrition label, close your eyes, and enjoy.

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Tolkien Reading Day, Lobster Newberg Day, more

March 25th, 2012, is Tolkein Reading Day, Old New Year's Day, Feast of Anunciation, International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members, Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy, Pecan Day, Lobster Newberg Day, and International Waffle Day.   

The Holiday Whiz is so busy celebrating, there's only time for a list with links today! Happy holidays!

Tolkien Reading Day

Old New Year's Day

Feast of Anunciation

International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy

Pecan Day

Lobster Newberg Day

International Waffle Day

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Houdini Day, Chocolate Covered Raisins Day, more

March 24th, 2012, is Ada Lovelace Day, Houdini Day, World Tuberculosis Day, and National Chocolate Covered Raisins Day.

Houdini Day commemorates the birth date of Harry Houdini, considered by many to be the best escape artist of all time.

World Tuberculosis Day is the anniversary of the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced that he had determined the cause of tuberculosis. TB is still an epidemic in parts of the world.

Add some nutrition to your chocolate binge on National Chocolate Covered Raisins Day.

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Puppy Day, Kitten Day, OK Day, Melba Toast Day, more

March 23rd, 2012, is National Puppy Day, Cuddly Kitten Day, Near Miss Day, World Meteorological Day, OK Day, Gudi Padwa, Ugadi, Pakistan Day, National Chip and Dip Day, and Melba Toast Day. 

Need a dose of cute? Celebrate National Puppy Day by checking out the Top 20 Puppy Names of 2012.

Need more cute? Celebrate Cuddly Kitten Day as well.

Near Miss Day commemorates the day in 1989 when our planet experienced a... near miss. An asteroid passed within 500,000 miles, which is next to nothing in space terms. The asteroid could have left a crater the size of Washington, D.C., USA, if it had made contact. Whew!

The theme of World Meteorological Day 2012 is, "Powering our future with weather, climate and water."

OK Day celebrates a common word, or expression, that we use without thinking much about: OK or okay. You can thank Old Kinderhook for his role in helping the invented word to catch on. His campaign slogan was, "OK is OK." (So sorry I brought up the topic of presidential campaigns! Ugh.)

Gudi Padwa and Ugadi celebrate the day that Lord Brahma created the universe. Lord Brahma is part of the HIndu trinity, which also includes Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.

Pakistan Day is observed today, in memory of the Lahore Resolution, passed in 1940.

Celebrate National Chip and Dip Day with whatever chip and dip combo suits your fancy. Go with the old standby, potato chips with onion dip, or the spicier tortilla chips with salsa, or something exotic of your own invention.

If you're fond of all foods thin and crispy, you're in luck. Melba Toast Day honors a treat created  by accident, by a chef at the Savoy Hotel. Dame Melba sampled the too-thin, over-toasted bread, and at that moment Melba Toast was born.

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