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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Goof Off Day, As Young As You Feel Day, more

March 22nd, 2012, is National Goof Off Day, International Day of the Seal, As Young As You Feel Day, World Water Day, and National Bavarian Crepes Day.

Today is National Goof Off Day. What does goofing off mean to you? Tacking an extra ten minutes onto your lunch hour? Playing "Angry Birds" on your work computer? Calling in sick? Letting the laundry and dishes go for the day? Jetting off to Barbados? Whatever you do, enjoy yourself.

International Day of the Seal has been observed since 1982, to draw attention to the plight of this lovable animal. Seals endure cruelty from hunters and they also face extinction.

How old are you? How old do you feel? Consider these quesitons on As Young As You Feel Day. Attitude is everything, or so I tell myself as I approach half a century on Planet Earth.

More than seven billion people live on our planet, and all of them need water. Learn what you can do to help maintain a clean water supply for the world on World Water Day. Play the World Water Day Game and take the Blue Lunchbox Challenge!

Crepes are French and Bavarian is, well, Bavarian, but somehow the two come together to make one sweet treat on National Bavarian Crepes Day.

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Aries, Sign of the Ram, March 21 to April 19

Aries. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Everyone born between March 21st and April 19th is an Aries, the sign of the Ram.

For more information about Aries:

• Homepagers Daily Horoscopes: Aries
• Whats-Your-Sign for Aries
• Astrology.com: Aries Sun Sign
• Astrology Online: Aries
• Farmers' Almanac: Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained

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Twitter Day, Teenager Day, Memory Day, more

March 21st, 2012, is Twitter Day, National Teenager Day, National Flower Day, National Single Parents Day, Memory Day, Children's Poetry Day, National Common Courtesy Day, Fragrance Day, World Down Syndrome Day, Egyptian Mother's Day, International Day of Nowruz, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, National French Bread Day, and California Strawberry Day.

Twitter Day commemorates the anniversary of the first tweet on Twitter, sent on this date in 2006. What was the first tweet written by a human? That would be co-founder Jack Dorsey's words, "inviting coworkers."

Today is National Teenager Day. If you have one or more of these volatile creatures living in your home, do not - under any circumstances - let them know that today is their day!

Just in time for spring, March 21st brings National Flower Day. Brighten up your home with a fresh bouquet.

National Single Parents Day acknowledges the difficult task faced by single parents, raising their children alone.

Don't forget to celebrate Memory Day. Check out some mneumonic devices.

Share some fun rhymes and your love of words with your kids today, Children's Poetry Day,

Pardon me, please. I just wanted to mention that today is National Common Courtesy Day.

Do you have a signature scent? Do you normally use cologne or perfume at all? Step out of your comfort zone today - try a new scent and see how people react on Fragrance Day.

World Down Syndrome Day brings attention to a life-altering genetic condition. Poland hosts the Upside Down Festival, highlighting films about Down syndrome.

Egypt celebrates Mother's Day on March 21st. Coincides nicely with National Flower Day. A lotus flower themed item might make a lovely gift.

On the International Day of Nowruz, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "At a time of global change and uncertainty, including in many regions where Nowruz is celebrated, the message of peace that lies at the core of this observance is especially important. My thoughts are with those communities observing Nowruz under difficult circumstances. This holiday is a reminder that we share a common fate and must work for a better future for all."

The theme for International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2012 is "Racism and Conflict."

What's better than a crusty baguette? Today is National French Bread Day.

Few fruits are more decadent than strawberries. Dip them in chocolate and....wow. Celebrate California Strawberry Day.

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March Equinox, Extraterrestrial Abductions Day, more

March 20th, 2012, is March Equinox, Spring Equinox, Vernal Equinox, Autumnal Equinox, International Astrology Day, Extraterrestrial Abductions Day, Snowman Burning Day, National Proposal Day, Kiss Your Fiance Day, National Jump Out! Day, Won't You Be My Neighbor? Day, International Earth Day, Independence Day (Tunisia), Nowruz, Meatout, National Ravioli Day, and Macaron Day NYC. 

During the two equinoxes of the year, day and night are approximately the same length. This year the March Equinox happens at 05:14 UTC. The March Equinox is known as the Spring Equinox or Vernal Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and the Autumnal Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere. Today is also celebrated as International Astrology Day. If you think today is your special opportunity to stand an egg on its end, read this!

Aliens. Image: FreeDigitalPhotos, Simon Howden.

Perhaps aliens are attracted by the day-and-night symmetry of the Equinox. Perhaps March 20th holds some other mystical power we can't understand. In any case, consider yourself warned that today is Extraterrestrial Abductions Day.

Today is Snowman Burning Day. Impossible, you say? Not so fast. The tradition began in Germany, where children who have been good burn straw "snowmen" to welcome the spring season.

If you can dodge the aliens and the burning snowmen, find your sweetie and pop the question! Today is National Proposal Day.

Conveniently, National Proposal Day is also Kiss Your Fiance Day. Celebrate two holidays in one!

Okay, if you're terrified you'll be abducted by aliens, attacked by burning snowmen, or trapped into marriage today, block everything out with an intense workout. Grab a jump rope and celebrate National Jump Out! Day.

Won't You Be My Neighbor? Day honors Fred Rogers, beloved by generations of children who knew him as Mr. Rogers. He was born on this date. It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood.

The United Nations observes Earth Day on the March Equinox. However, many countries choose to observe Earth Day on other dates.

Tunisia observes Independence Day on March 20th.

Nowruz is the Persian New Year. One related tradition is "Gereh Gushai," in which a person with a problem asks strangers to undo a knot tied in his shirt tail. The responses of the strangers are omens for the coming year, predicting whether or not the problem will be solved.

Meatout, once known as the Great American Meatout, now has a global focus. Consider avoiding salami, wings, burgers, and bacon for just one day.

Celebrate National Ravioli Day with some yummy beef ravioli smothered in marinara sauce. Go with cheese ravioli if you're participating in Meatout. If you're looking for a third option, come to St. Louis, Missouri, USA, for some hot and crispy toasted ravioli.

Macaron Day NYC  celebrates a treat some call "the new cupcake." A macaron is a French sandwich cookie.The cookies are made with almond flour, sugar, and egg. The filling is ganache. Apparently macarons are available in a rainbow of colors and flavors. They put me in the mind of spring and Easter eggs!

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Sun-Earth Day, Let's Laugh Day, Poultry Day, more

March 19th, 2012, is Sun-Earth Day, Let's Laugh Day, St. Joseph's Day, National Poultry Day, and National Chocolate Caramel Day.

Sun-Earth Day is always celebrated near the March Equinox. The theme for Sun-Earth Day this year is "Shadows of the Sun!"

Let's Laugh Day is observed today, but please feel free to practice during the other 364 days of the year.

St. Joseph's Day is a time to wear red, orange, or purple. The traditional feast includes meatless traditional Italian dishes.

To celebrate National Poultry Day, cook up your favorite bird! The most decadent poultry dish I've ever had is turducken, which is a boneless chicken wrapped in a boneless duck, then wrapped in a turkey which is boneless except for the wings and drumsticks. There's stuffing between each layer, as well. Turducken is a Cajun delight!

Good news to you lovers of sweets - today is National Chocolate Caramel Day. This flavor combination is all but irresistible!

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Mothering Sunday, Awkward Moments Day, more

March 18th, 2012, is Mothering Sunday, Refreshment Sunday, Laetare Sunday, Rose Sunday, Awkward Moments Day, World Eagle Day, Buzzard Sunday, National Forgive Mom and Dad Day, National Biodiesel Day, Goddess of Fertility Day, Supreme Sacrifice Day, and National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day.

Mothering Sunday is the British version of Mother's Day, always celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Other names for this holiday include  Refreshment Sunday, Laetare Sunday, and Rose Sunday.

Um, I'm not sure how to say this, exactly, but today is Awkward Moments Day. Sorry. Didn't mean to bump into you. Let me help you clean that up.

The World Bird Sanctuary in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, celebrates World Eagle Day. Learn about eagles from around the world.

The Sunday following March 15rh is always observed as Buzzard Sunday in Hinckley, Ohio, USA.

National Forgive Mom and Dad Day is the perfect opportunity to free yourself - and your parents - from burdens of the past. Unless your parents were truly abusive, please try to forgive them for their flaws. Forgiveness will make you feel lighter. Your kids may feel you have much to answer for some day, after all.

National Biodiesel Day is celebrated on March 18th, the birth date of Rudolf Diesel. He invented the pressure-ignited heat engine, known as the diesel engine.

On Goddess of Fertility Day, learn about fertility treatment options or simply read some words of encouragement if you are trying to conceive. Learning to relax is also important, cliche as that may sound.

Supreme Sacrifice Day honors everyone - throughout history - who laid down their lives for the sake of others. Take a few moments from your busy day to reflect on their bravery. Would you make the same sacrifice, if called upon?

Today is National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day, not to be confused with regular ol' Oatmeal Cookie Day. Lacy oatmeal cookies are thin and, well, lacy.

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Saint Patrick's Day, Quilting Day, Submarine Day, more

Saint Patrick's Day. Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.

March 17th, 2012, is Saint Patrick's Day, National Quilting Day, Submarine Day, Corn Dog Day, and Corned Beef and Cabbage Day.

Saint Patrick's Day is the time to wear green in honor of the patron saint of Ireland. Go to a parade, have some corned beef, drink some green beer, and generally have fun!

The third Saturday in March is National Quilting Day. Don't work on your quilt today, though, if you've been tasting green beer.

On Submarine Day, celebrate sandwiches or underwater ships. You could eat a hoagie while listening to the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine."

If you're not into the whole Irish food scene, go American and embrace Corn Dog Day.

If you are into the whole Irish food scene, go for the gusto on Corned Beef and Cabbage Day. Erin go bragh!

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Lips Appreciation Day, World Sleep Day, more

March 16th, 2012, is Lips Appreciation Day, Everything You Do Is Right Day, World Sleep Day, Curlew Day, National Goddard Day, National Freedom of Information Day, St. Urho's Day, and Artichoke Heart Day.  

Pucker up - today is Lips Appreciation Day. If you're feeling brave, draw attention to your beautiful lips with some awesome lip decals!

Show your confident self to the world today, because we're celebrating Everything You Do Is Right Day. Much better than yesterday's rather negative holiday, Everything You Think Is Wrong Day, don't you think?

World Sleep Day is meant to raise awareness about sleep disorders and other issues related to sleep. On a lighter note, it's also an opportunity to catch up on that lost hour of sleep from Daylight Savings Time last weekend.

Curlew Day is observed annually at the Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, USA, celebrating the return of the long-billed curlew to the area. The long-billed curlew is the largest North American shorebird.

National Goddard Day commemorates the 1926 flight of the first liquid-fuel-powered rocket. It was launched by Robert Hutchings Goddard in Auburn, Massachusetts, USA.

March 16th is National Freedom of Information Day. I support this concept up to a point, but not when our personal info is hijacked online!

Finland observes St. Urho's Day, celebrating the day when the mythical St. Urho drove the grasshoppers out of Finland. Participants wear green and wave pitchforks to drive away the grasshoppers, then later change to purple. Some Finns may merely want to get an early start on drinking green beer; some drink purple beer instead. Still others say the fictional character of St. Urho was created in Minnesota, USA.

Whole artichokes may intimidate the home cook, but artichoke hearts are easy to extract. Just open the jar! Have a wonderful Artichoke Heart Day.

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Everything You Think Is Wrong Day, Ides of March, more

March 15th, 2012, is Everything You Think Is Wrong Day, True Confessions Day, Ides of March, Brutus Day, Dumbstruck Day, Absolutely Incredible Kid Day, Buzzards Day, World Consumer Rights Day, Companies that Care Day, National Peanut Lovers' Day, and National Pears Helene Day. 

If you think today is Everything You Think Is Wrong Day, you're wrong. No, wait - now I'm confused.

All right, I confess. Today is Everything You Think Is Wrong Day. Today is also True Confessions Day. And that's all I'm gonna say about that.

Beware the Ides of March, also known as Brutus Day. The Ides of March is the Roman way of saying March 15th, and on this date Julius Caesar realized that Brutus had betrayed him. "Et tu, Brute?"

Perhaps you're shocked that everything you think is wrong, or perhaps you're stunned by someone's true confessions, or perhaps you're dismayed that Brutus betrayed Caesar. That's perfect, because today is Dumbstruck Day.

The 16th annual Absolutely Incredible Kid Day is sponsored by Camp Fire USA. Adults are encouraged to write letters to kids, showing "support, love and encouragement." Nice!

Hinckley, Ohio, USA, observes Buzzards Day each year on this date, celebrating the birds' springtime arrival.

The theme for World Consumer Rights Day 2012 is: "Our money, our rights: campaigning for real choice in financial services." A worthy cause, indeed.

The third Thursday in March is Companies that Care Day. The philosophy behind the event is: "If we all do a little, we can truly accomplish a lot." Organizers promote the 10 Characteristics of Socially Responsible Employers.

Ballgame or no ballgame, enjoy some peanuts today in honor of National Peanut Lovers' Day.

Try a truly elegant French dessert tonight - pears dressed to impress! Poach some pears, then serve with ice cream and chocolate sauce. National Pears Helene Day - ooh la la!

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Learn About Butterflies Day, Save a Spider Day, more

March 14th, 2012, is Learn About Butterflies Day, Save a Spider Day, National Children's Craft Day, National Pi Day, International Ask a Question Day, No Smoking Day, Registered Dietitian Day, and National Potato Chip Day. 

Butterflies. Image: FreeDigitalPhotos, Victor Habbick.

Learn About Butterflies Day is the time to, um, learn about butterflies. If it's too soon to find them in nature where you live, visit a butterfly house.

While you're learning about butterflies, don't neglect the spiders. Today is Save a Spider Day. If you find a spider where a spider is not welcome, move him outdoors with a glass and a postcard.

On National Children's Craft Day, perhaps the kidlets could make cool sculptures or collages featuring butterflies and spiders.

3/14 is National Pi Day, since the first digits of pi are 3.14. Make some circles to celebrate. Make some circles out of flaky pastry and use them to make a pie, if you're so inclined.

International Ask a Question Day might inspire you to inquire, "what is pi?" or "what are some interesting facts about butterflies?" What a great tie-in with holidays mentioned above.

No Smoking Day is observed on the second Wednesday in March. Here's to all the smokers out there who want to kick the habit!

While trying to stop smoking, why not try to improve your diet as well? Today is Registered Dietitian Day.

Sshhhhh..... Don't tell the dieticians that today is National Potato Chip Day!

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Organize Your Home Office Day, Earmuffs Day, more

March 13th, 2012, is Organize Your Home Office Day, Earmuffs Day, Jewel Day, National Open an Umbrella Indoors Day, Good Samaritan Involvement Day, K9 Veterans Day, and National Coconut Torte Day.

Organize Your Home Office Day is the second Tuesday in March. Set up a convenient filing system and throw away some stuff you no longer need. Check out my system for managing quarterly receipts.

On this date in 1877, Chester Greenwood patented the Greenwood Champion Ear Protector. If your local weather is cold enough, rock your fuzzy earmuffs on Earmuffs Day.

Jewel Day is the perfect time to flaunt your jewels or give jewels to someone you love. Your favorite blogger likes rubies!

National Open an Umbrella Indoors Day is a holiday to celebrate at your own risk. Many people believe that it's bad luck to open an umbrella indoors. Of course, if you need to open an umbrella inside your house, bad luck is already in your midst.

Good Samaritan Involvement Day mourns the death of Catherine "Kitty" Genovese, who was stabbed to death while thirty-eight people stood by, not wanting to get involved. In the memory of Ms. Genovese, get involved if you can help! At the very least, dial 911.

K9 Veterans Day commemorates the founding of the United States K9 Corps in 1942.

Enjoy a decadent coconut dessert on National Coconut Torte Day.

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National Napping Day, Plant a Flower Day, more

March 12th, 2012, is National Napping Day, Plant a Flower Day, Girl Scouts Day, Commonwealth Day, Independence Day (Maritius), Baked Scallops Day, and Eskimo Pie Day. 

The Monday after Daylight Savings Time is National Napping Day. No explanation needed, right?

Today is Plant a Flower Day. I may not get around to a literal celebration for this holiday, but I'll gladly step outside and gather a few newly-bloomed daffodils! Spring is springing in St. Louis.

Girl Scouts Day is always observed on March 12th. In 2012, March 12th is the 100th birthday of the Girl Scouts. Happy Birthday!

Commonwealth Day is observed by the Commonwealth of Nations, all of which used to be part of the British Empire.

Mauritius observes Independence Day on March 12th, celebrating independence since 1968.

Baked Scallops Day is the perfect time to enjoy some low-fat, delicious seafood. If you decide to sautee them, I won't tell!

Eskimo Pie Day honors a popular ice cream treat - ice cream on a stick, encased in a chocolate shell. What's not to like?

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Daylight Savings Time, Worship of Tools Day, more

March 11th, 2012, is the beginning of Daylight Savings Time, Check Your Batteries Day, Johnny Appleseed Day, Worship of Tools Day, Girl Scout Sunday, and Oatmeal Nut Waffle Day.

Today is the day (early, at 2:00 a.m. where I live, in St. Louis, Missouri) to turn the clocks forward one hour. "Spring forward, fall back," as the saying goes. Please don't ask me to explain or justify the twice-a-year time changes. Daylight Savings Time is observed on different dates in different countries, or not at all. See this list for details.

Daylight Savings Time brings Check Your Batteries Day. Check the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors today, to help keep your family safe. If you observe Daylight Savings Time on some other date, please note this event on your calendar.

Johnny Appleseed Day is observed on March 11th and September 26th, the dates of his death and his birth, respectively. Plant a tree or at least eat an apple in his honor.

Today may be Sunday, but there's another form of worship going on. March 11th is Worship of Tools Day. If some of you would like to worship your tools by making repairs at my house, please let me know.

Girl Scout Sunday is celebrated on Sunday of Girl Scout Week. 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts. Thank you, on behalf of myself, my daughter, and the countless other girls who are better people because of our scouting experiences.

Oatmeal Nut Waffle Day narrows your breakfast options. Feel free to go crazy with the nuts, though - pecan, walnut, almond, pistachio - the holiday doesn't discriminate.

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Fanny Pack Day, Mario Day, Day of Awesomeness, more

March 10th, 2012, is International Fanny Pack Day, Descendants Day, Mario Day, International Day of Awesomeness, Harriet Tubman Day, National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and National Blueberry Popover Day. 

International Fanny Pack Day is observed on the second Saturday in March. We can argue about the fashion merits of the fanny pack, but there's no disputing the convenience factor!

Descendants Day takes place on the final day of Celebrate Your Name Week. If you have older relatives, ask them for info about your family tree before it's too late. Take good notes! You'll be glad you did.

Mario Day honors Mario the plumber, of Nintendo game fame. Know why this holiday always takes place on the 10th of March? Mar 10. Mario. Get it now? Everybody sing along with Mario's theme song:

On the International Day of Awesomeness, celebrate the awesomeness in yourself, in others, and in the world. By the way, you're awesome for reading this blog. You're awesomely awesome if you share it with your friends!

Harriet Tubman Day honors a great woman in United States history. She escaped from slavery and became a "conductor" on the Underground Railroad, helping others to escape.

National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day offers an opportunity to support medical research, find out how you can help people around the world impacted by HIV/AIDS, and talk to your family about ways to avoid infection.

Enjoy a pastry treat that's delicious and full of antioxidants on National Blueberry Popover Day.

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Middle Name Pride Day, Panic Day, Bang Clang Day, more

March 9th, 2012, is Middle Name Pride Day, Panic Day, Bang Clang Day, Get Over It Day, Joe Franklin Day, and National Crabmeat Day.

Middle Name Pride Day is the time to give up your secret. Do you love your middle name or hide it? Of course, some people use their middle name in daily life, to conceal a first name they don't like. For such people, I suppose every day is Middle Name Pride Day.

Does the thought of revealing your middle name make you panic? Perfect, because today is Panic Day. Just take a deep breath. Everything will be okay.

Bang Clang Day commemorates the first battle between armored ships, the Monitor and the Merrimac. The 1862 event is known as the Battle of Hampton Roads.

Get Over It Day is your opportunity to get over whatever has been bothering you lately. Write it down and throw it in the fire on the GetOverItDay website!

Joe Franklin Day honors the host of the longest-running television show. Between 1950 and 1993, over 28,000 episodes of The Joe Franklin Show were produced!

On National Crabmeat Day, enjoy crab salad, crab rangoon, or - best of all - a massive platter of steamed crab legs with drawn butter on the side.

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Nametag Day, Be Nasty Day, Girls Write Now Day, more

March 8th, 2012, is Nametag Day, Be Nasty Day, Girls Write Now Day, World Kidney Day, International Women's Day, Peanut Cluster Day, and Popcorn Lovers Day.

Make life easier for the unfortunate people (myself included) who have trouble remembering names. Wear one of those stick-on labels with your name in bold black marker in honor of Nametag Day. This day is always observed on Thursday of Celebrate Your Name Week.

Can't you read any faster? Who invited you here, anyway? The 80s want their shirt back. Sorry, but today is Be Nasty Day.

Girls Write Now Day is, according to the official website, "a day to encourage girls of all ages everywhere n the world to put pen to paper and explore the beauty and power of their unique, creative voices."

International Women's Day celebrates all things female, including empowerment. According to UN Women, IWD is "a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women in the past, present and future. It is a day when women are recognised for their achievements, regardless of divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political."

The theme for World Kidney Day 2012 is "Donate - Kidneys for Life - Receive."

Enjoy a sweet and salty treat featuring chocolate and peanuts on National Peanut Cluster Day.

If you're in the mood for something lighter, you're in luck. The second Thursday in March is Popcorn Lovers Day.

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Full moon names for March 2012

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for March 2012 takes place on March 7th or 8th, depending on your location. Following is a list of full moon names for March, ranging from common to surprising. Which names speak to you?

Moose Hunter Moon - Abenaki
Spring Season Maker Moon - Abenaki
Catching Fish Moon - Algonquin
Crow Moon - Algonquin
Full Worm Moon - Algonquin
Sap Moon - Algonquin
Sugar Moon - Algonquin
Snow Crust Moon - Anishnaabe
Buffalo Dropping Their Calves - Arapaho
Sore Eye Moon - Assiniboine
Moon of Winds - Celtic
Strawberry Moon - Cherokee
Windy Moon - Cherokee
Sleepy Moon - Chinese
Big Famine Moon - Choctaw
Fish Moon - Colonial American
Lenten Moon - Colonial American
Cottonball Moon - Comanche
Hot and Cold Moon - Comanche
Eagle Moon - Cree
Goose Moon - Cree
Little Spring Moon - Creek
Moon When Eyes Are Sore from Bright Snow - Dakotah Sioux
Worm Moon - Deborean
Rain Moon - Diegueno
Chaste Moon - English Medieval
Noisy Goose Moon - Haida
Falgun Purnima - Hindu
Holi Festival - Hindu
Phalgun Purnima - Hindu
Purnima Vrat - Hindu
Whispering Wind Moon - Hopi
Amaolikkervik - Inuit
Plow Moon - Janic
Seed Moon - Janic
Spring Moon - Kalapuya
Women Dig Camas - Kalapuya
Shch'ami daawaatra - Keresan
Bud Moon - Kiowa
Middle-Finger (counting on fingers, beginning with thumb in August) - Klamath
Sucker Fishing Moon - Klamath
Halakwol - Kumeyaay
Flowers Moon - Maidu
Trail Sit Along Moon - Maidu
Chaste Moon - Medieval English
Much Lateness Moon - Mohawk
Little Spring Month - Muscokee
Deer Moon - Natchez
Full Crow Moon - Native American
Full Crust Moon - Native American
Full Sap Moon - Native American
Full Worm Moon - Native American
Small Plant Moon - Navajo
Death Moon - Neo Pagan
Little Frog Moon - Omaha
Spring Moon - Passamaquoddy
Green Moon - Pima
Growth Begins - Pomo
Water Stands in the Ponds Month - Ponca
Crane Moon - Potawatomi
Lizard Moon - San Juan
Sap Moon - Shawnee
Warming Moon - Shoshoni
Moon of the Snowblind - Sioux
Moon When Buffalo Cows Drop Their Calves - Sioux
Sore Eye Moon - Sioux
Wind Strong Moon - Taos
Moon When the Leaves Break Forth - Tewa Pueblo
Underwater Plants Sprout - Tlingit
Pahim Muattsi - Tumpisa
Moon of Winds - Unknown
Plow Moon - Unknown
Seed Moon - Unknown
Storm Moon - Wiccan
Long Days Moon - Wishram
Waehma Meecha - Yaqui
Little Summer Moon - Yuchi
Little Sand Storm Moon - Zuni

Sources for full moon names:

• Farmers' Almanac - Full Moon Names and Their Meanings
• Moon Names
• Indian Moons, Days & 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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Be Heard Day, Read Aloud Day, Purim, more

March 7th, 2012, is Discover What Your Name Means Day, National Be Heard Day, World Read Aloud Day, Purim, Ta'anit Esther, Holi, Dolyatra, Makha Bucha, National Cereal Day, and National Crown Roast of Pork Day.

National Be Heard Day celebrates the efforts of small businesses to outshine their larger competitors. Of course, the Internet levels that playing field a bit!
On World Read Aloud Day, read aloud to your kids. Better yet - if they're able, let your kids read aloud to you! Oh, and when they do, give them your undivided attention. No TV, no gadgets.

Purim begins on the evening of March 7th and continues through the evening of March 8th. Purim celebrates the survival of the Jews, despite Haman's plot to destroy them in a single day. Ta'anit Esther, the Fast of Esther, takes place in the hours leading up to Purim.

Holi and Dolyatra are festivals celebrated in India in conjunction with the March full moon.

Buddhists celebrate Makha Bucha during the March full moon.

Grab your bowl, your spoon, your milk, and your favorite cereal concoction in honor of National Cereal Day. Cereal is not only good for you (sans too much sugar, of course), but it's also convenient and easy to store. Add fresh fruit for even more health benefits and deliciousness.

If you're confident and ambitious in the kitchen, make the most of National Crown Roast of Pork Day. Oh, and please feel free to invite me over for dinner!

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Unique Names Day, Frozen Food Day, more

March 6th, 2012, is Unique Names Day, Dentists' Day, Town Meeting Day, Alamo Day, Independence Day (Ghana), White Chocolate Cheesecake Day, Oreo Cookies Day, and National Frozen Food Day.

Unique Names Day is celebrated on Tuesday of Celebrate Your Name Week. Is your name unique? Is uniqueness a good thing or a bad thing, in your opinion? Check out these unique celebrity baby names!

Most of us dislike going to the dentist. Some downright refuse. But your friendly dentist has tricks up his or her sleeve these days, to make the experience bearable. Everyone deserves a healthy smile. Make an appointment with your favorite dentist in honor of Dentists' Day.

Vermont observes Town Meeting Day on the first Tuesday in March. It's a time-honored tradition.

Texas observes Alamo Day on March 6th, the anniversary of the last day of the Battle of the Alamo.

Ghana celebrates Independence Day on March 6th, commemorating the date in 1957 when Ghana became the first black African country to gain independence.

White Chocolate Cheesecake Day honors a specific dessert concoction, albeit a delicious one. Don't try to sneak any dark chocolate in that cheesecake!

Oreo Cookies Day is extra-special this year, because Nabisco is celebrating the 100th birthday of the beloved sandwich cookie. In fact, for a limited time you can buy special edition Birthday Cake Oreos.

In these days when many of us are trying to be more frugal, an extra freezer is a great investment. Not only can you take advantage of sales by buying in bulk, but you can also join the ranks of those who cook in bulk. Embrace the possibilities on National Frozen Food Day.

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