Mutt's Day, Feast of Saint Ignatius, more

July 31st, 2012 is Mutt's Day, Feast of Saint Ignatius, Jump for Jelly Beans Day, National Cotton Candy Day, and National Raspberry Cake Day.

Mutt's Day honors some of the world's best dogs, the ones who take the best features from this breed and that, blend them together, and show us their unique style. Many of us humans are mutts of a sort, too, especially in the glorious melting pot known as the USA.

The Feast of Saint Ignatius is held in remembrance of the founder of the Society of Jesus. Saint Ignatius of Loyola lived from 1491 to 1556.

Jump for Jelly Beans Day is a time to leap for your sweet legumes, apparently. I can't imagine Ronald Reagan doing that.

National Cotton Candy Day is the holiday so nice they celebrate it twice. Have some cotton candy today and on December 7th.

Today is National Raspberry Cake Day. If you've got some on hand, what time should I come over?

Father-in-Law Day, Cheesecake Day, more

July 30th, 2012, is Father-in-Law Day, Independence Day (Vanuatu), and National Cheesecake Day.

Father-in-Law Day honors the second father in your life, the one you get when you marry the love of your life. My father-in-law passed away recently, and I miss our long talks. Appreciate time together while you have it.

Vanuatu celebrates Independence Day on July 30th.

Relax with a decadent dessert  - don't worry about the calories. Happy National Cheesecake Day!

Lipstick Day, Bog Day, Reek Sunday, more

July 29th, 2012, is National Lipstick Day, International Bog Day, Rain Day, National Cheese Sacrifice Purchase Day, Father's Day (Dominican Republic), Reek Sunday, and National Lasagna Day.

Today is National Lipstick Day. Even if you don't have the time or inclination, ladies, to apply full makeup, a little lipstick can really brighten up your style. And it's nice for kissing.

International Bog Day, always the last Sunday in July, celebrates the beauty of bogs and encourages conservation. 

Rain Day takes place every July 29th in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, when citizens gather to check for rain. As of 2010, it rained 112 out of the last 136 years. The strange observance began when a farmer mentioned to a local drug store owner that it would rain the following day, July 29th. When the drug store owner asked why, the farmer explained that the date was his birthday, and his journal showed that it almost always rained on his birthday. Has anyone checked the forecast for Waynesburg? There's an app for that.

National Cheese Sacrifice Purchase Day is the day when you're supposed to purchase cheese solely for the purpose of baiting your mousetraps. No cheese for you!

Happy Father's Day to all Dads in the Dominican Republic. The holiday is observed on the last Sunday in July.

Reek Sunday is observed in Ireland on the last Sunday in July. Up to 25,000 pilgrims climb Saint Patrick Mountain, also known as Croagh Patrick or the Reek. Many climb the mountain barefoot! Saint Patrick is said to have fasted on this mountain before throwing a bell down the side, banishing all snakes from Ireland.

Despite the fact that you're supposed to use the cheese you buy today to bait mousetraps, today is National Lasagna Day. Oh well, just plan to buy your ricotta and mozzarella yesterday.

National Dance Day, Day of the Cowboy, Milk Chocolate Day, more

July 28th, 2012, is National Dance Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, National Day of the Cowboy, Independence Day (Peru), World Hepatitis Day, and National Milk Chocolate Day.

Today is the 2nd annual National Dance Day, sponsored by "So You Think You Can Dance" and the Dizzy Feet Foundation. Join organized celebrations in many major cities or put together your own event. Just dance and have fun.

The 28th of every month is Gone-ta-Pott Day, as declared on the website by the same name. In the spirit of this holiday, try to see the humor in a bad situation.

July 28th, 2012 is the eighth annual National Day of the Cowboy. The mission of the National Day of the Cowboy nonprofit organization is to "contribute to the preservation of America's Cowboy heritage so that the history and culture...can be shared and perpetuated for the public good, through education, the arts, celebrations, gatherings, rodeos, and community activities."

Peru celebrates Independence Day on July 28th with a salvo of twenty-one cannons, bullfighting, and other festivities.

Today is World Hepatitis Day. Learn more about this disease that is more prevalent than HIV or any cancer.

On National Milk Chocolate Day, enjoy a candy bar, a brownie, cake, chocolate milk, or your favorite milk chocolate confection. Or just have your milk chocolate straight.

Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower 2012

The 2012 Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower is expected to be at its peak on July 28th and 29th in the hours before dawn, but meteors may be visible any time in late July or early August. The Perseids Meteor Shower is just ramping up as well, with a peak expected around August 13th. Viewing for the Delta Aquarids is best in the Southern Hemisphere, but enthusiasts in the Northern Hemisphere should watch the skies as well.

City lights, called light pollution, can interfere with viewing. So can reflected moonlight. The next full moon will take place on August 2nd, so expect a great deal of moonlight.

Meteor showers are named for the star or constellation they appear to be near. The Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower appears near a third magnitude star, Delta Aquarii.

Stargazing bench. Image: suphakit73; FreeDigitalPhoto

Check out these sites for more information about the Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower, including recommended viewing times for your corner of the globe:

• Delta Aquarid meteors peak in final weekend of July 2012
• Delta Aquarii
• Spacedex 2012 Meteor Shower viewing guide
• EarthSky's meteor shower guide for 2012
• StarDate 2012 Meteor Showers
• American Meteor Society

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2012 Olympics, Walk on Stilts Day, Creme Brulee Day, more

July 27th, 2012, is 2012 Olympics, National Talk in an Elevator Day, Barbie in a Blender Day, Take Your Houseplants for a Walk Day, Take Your Pants for a Walk Day, Walk on Stilts Day, System Administrator Appreciation Day, National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, and National Creme Brulee Day.  

The 2012 Olympics in London begin today and continue through August 12th. Can't wait - this year brings more viewing opportunities than ever, with apps, webcasts, and DVR viewing. The Opening Ceremony takes place on the evening of July 27th, London time, but the tricky little secret is that some events are held in advance. Let's just hope that the games take place without incident, focusing on the true spirit of fair competition and camaraderie. Here's a schedule of events.

National Talk in an Elevator Day pokes fun at social taboos. When I was in college, friends who studied sociology were assigned to turn around and face the other riders in elevators. Similar idea.

Barbie in a Blender Day is..... um.... perhaps not as sick as it first sounds. The day is inspired by photographer Tom Forsythe, who was sued by Mattel as a result of his Food Chain Barbie images. Forsythe began by trying to make a statement about branding, body image, and modern culture, but ended by showing corporations that they could not always stop the little guy. Mattel ultimately lost the case. Okay, I hear you - enough seriousness. Here's a Barbie in a blender, for those of you who are not too squeamish:

Now that we're done desecrating Barbie, it's time to celebrate Take Your Houseplants for a Walk Day. Used to be that watering them was enough. Then we were told to talk to our plants. And now this. Well, I'm drawing the line here. I will not take my houseplants to the houseplant park or play fetch with them.

Perhaps (IMHO) as a result of lazy typing or a typo, the above holiday evolved into another celebration, Take Your Pants for a Walk Day. No matter the origin of the holiday, I recommend wearing the pants while you walk them.

Continuing with today's theme of holidays about walking, today is Walk on Stilts Day. If you can somehow walk your pants, walk your houseplants, and walk on stilts simultaneously, you should post on YouTube.

The thirty-fourth annual Gilroy Garlic Festival, in Gilroy, California, begins today and runs through July 29th. Some day I've gotta try garlic ice cream.

The last Friday in July is System Administrator Appreciation Day, so if you have a SysAdmin in your life, show a little love!

July 27th is National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. In the words of President Obama in 2011: "Today, we honor the tens of thousands of service members who gave their last full measure of devotion to protect the people of the Republic of Korea.  We also pay tribute to the generations of Americans who have guarded the border since hostilities concluded.  It is our sacred duty as a grateful Nation to care for all those who have served, and to provide for our veterans and their families." Thank you, brave veterans.

Today we honor an elegant dessert with a hard, caramelized top. On National Creme Brulee Day, raise your creme brulee torch and say "Ooh la la!"

Aunt and Uncle Day, Chili Dog Day, Coffee Milkshake Day, more

July 26th, 2012, is All or Nothing Day, Aunt and Uncle Day, National Bagelfest, Independence Day (Liberia), Independence Day (Maldives), National Chili Dog Day, and National Coffee Milkshake Day.

Feeling daring or just vaguely restless? Well, my friend, this is the day for you. On All or Nothing Day try something new and exciting. Ask that cute girl on a date, go bungee jumping, eat rattlesnake. Just do something!

Aunt and Uncle Day is celebrated on July 26th. Visit your aunts and uncles or call them. They will appreciate the attention.

National Bagelfest is a time to score some bagels on sale if you're lucky. If not, have some anyway. Bagels are delicious.

Liberia observes Independence Day on July 26th.

The Maldives observes Independence Day on July 26th.

The last Thursday in July is National Chili Dog Day. Enjoy, but don't wear a white shirt.

Today is National Coffee Milkshake Day. I could go for one of those right now - it's hot in St. Louis and I'm sleepy!

Rain of Black Worms Day, Culinarians Day, more

July 25th, 2012 is Rain of Black Worms Day, Merry-Go-Round Day, Culinarians Day, Thread the Needle Day, Candles on a Cake Day, Santiago, Constitution Day (Fiji), and National Hot Fudge Sundae Day.

On this date in 1872 a strange thing happened in Bucharest, Romania. Today is Rain of Black Worms Day! I haven't found a good explanation.

Reminisce about your childhood or take the little ones in your life to the nearest carousel. Celebrate Merry-Go-Round Day.

Today is Culinarians Day. Take time to thank the chef at your favorite restaurant or the person who keeps you well-fed at home. Or, if you're the culinarian in your household,  take the day off and let someone else do the cooking.

Thread the Needle Day offers an opportunity to dust off your sewing skills. It's also an opportunity to find your way through a difficult situation. Makes me think of Mathew 19:24  - "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

July 25th is Candles on a Cake Day, honoring a tradition with German origins. You're pretty special if your birthday happens to be today.

The celebration known as Santiago, honoring Saint James, takes place in Spain on this date. When Santiago falls on a Sunday the year is El Ano Santo, a holy year. Pilgrims who travel to the town of Santiago during a holy year will be free of all sin, as decreed by Pope Calixto II.

Fiji observes Constitution Day on July 25th.

July 25th brings yet another ice cream-related holiday, probably my favorite. Hard to beat the combo of cold vanilla ice cream, smooth hot fudge, and crunchy toasted pecans. Happy National Hot Fudge Sundae Day!

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Drive-Thru Day, Birthday of Nannarrup hoffmani, more

July 24th, 2012, is National Drive-Thru Day, Tell an Old Joke Day, Cousins' Day, Pioneer Day (Utah), Birthday of Nannarrup hoffmani, Instant Coffee Day, and National Tequila Day.

Today is National Drive-Thru Day. It's nice to have the option of drive-thru service on a busy day. Some restaurants even have healthy items on the menu. Only problem is, sometimes it's hard to hear or be heard through the cheap speakers they use.

What does an elephant do when he breaks his toe? He calls a "toe" truck. Sorry for the old joke, but today is Tell an Old Joke Day. If you need a supply of old jokes, much better than mine, the late Henny Youngman had many to offer.

Today is Cousins' Day, a time to reminisce about the good times you've had with your cousins at family reunions and such. How many cousins do you have? I have thirty-two, believe it or not, but sadly three are no longer with us.

The state of Utah observes Pioneer Day today, remembering the date in 1847 when Brigham Young and a group of Mormon pioneers arrived at Salt Lake Valley.

July 24th is the Birthday of Nannarrup hoffmani. Never heard of him? That's because "he" is a centipede, a new genus of centipede, discovered in New York's Central Park. The eighty-two-legged creature was found in 1998, but not officially classified until July 24th, 2002.

If you're in too much of a hurry to hit the drive-thru, have some instant coffee in honor of Instant Coffee Day. If you refuse to drink instant coffee, use some to flavor frosting or add a subtle dimension to a gravy or sauce. Be creative!

On National Tequila Day, have a margharita or a tequila sunrise. Or better yet, make diamonds. Did you know scientists have turned tequila into diamonds? I'll drink to that.

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Mosquito Day, Gorgeous Grandma Day, Hot Dog Day, more

July 23rd, 2012, is National Mosquito Day, Hot Enough for Ya Day, Gorgeous Grandma Day, Egypt Revolution Day, National Hot Dog Day, and National Vanilla Ice Cream Day.

On National Mosquito Day, be nice to the little insects that love to bite us. Yeah, right.

Hot enough for ya? We hear that too much in the Northern Hemisphere this time of year. Anyway, for what it's worth, have a great Hot Enough for Ya Day.

Gorgeous Grandma Day is meant to remind everyone that beauty has nothing to do with age. You go, Grandma!

On Egypt Revolution Day, Egyptians remember their 1952 revolution against the British.

Please pass the mustard and the relish - today is National Hot Dog Day.

National Vanilla Ice Cream Day is the latest in a long string of ice cream-related celebrations. Maybe it's just a ploy to distract people from asking, "Hot enough for ya?" all the time.

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Leo the Lion, July 23 to August 22

Leo. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Everyone born between July 23rd and August 22nd is a Leo, the sign of the Lion.

For more information about Leo:

• Leo Daily Horoscope
• What's-Your-Sign for Leo
• Astrology.com: Leo Sun Sign 
• StarDate: Leo, the Lion
• Farmers' Almanac: Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained

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Spoonerism Day, Pi Approximation Day, Penuche Fudge Day, more

July 22nd, 2012, is Lion's Share Day, Spoonerism Day, Parents' Day, Auntie's Day, Rat-Catchers Day, Pied Piper Day, Pi Approximation Day, Hammock Day, and National Penuche Fudge Day.

Lion's Share Day is your opportunity to take more than your share, evidently, if you have the brawn and temperament to do so. The expression, "the lion's share," comes to us from one of Aesop's fables:

The Lion, the Fox, and the Ass

The Lion, the Fox and the Ass entered into an agreement to assist each other in the chase. Having secured a large booty, the Lion on their return from the forest asked the Ass to allot his due portion to each of the three partners in the treaty. The Ass carefully divided the spoil into three equal shares and modestly requested the two others to make the first choice. The Lion, bursting out into a great rage, devoured the Ass. Then he requested the Fox to do him the favor to make a division. The Fox accumulated all that they had killed into one large heap and left to himself the smallest possible morsel. The Lion said, "Who has taught you, my very excellent fellow, the art of division? You are perfect to a fraction." He replied, "I learned it from the Ass, by witnessing his fate."

Happy is the man who learns from the misfortunes of others.

July 22nd is Spoonerism Day, commemorating the birth date of William Archibald Spooner, accidental inventer of the spoonerism. A spoonerism is the swapping of consonants or syllables in two words, creating runny feasults, er, funny results. Here's a good one, from the British scholar Mr. Spooner himself: During World War I he stated, "When our boys come home from France, we will have the hags flung out."

The fourth Sunday in July is Parents' Day. The National Parents' Day Coalition states, "Parents' Day provides an opportunity to recognize and promote parenting as a central vocation for our families and communities. More than just a time to celebrate, it is an occasion to make a statement about what is important in our society. It is a chance to create a positive tradition based on a core axiom - that the role of parents is crucial in the nurturing and development of children, and thus requires investment, focus, and commitment."

Today is the 4th annual Auntie's Day, honoring all of the wonderful Aunts out there!

Today is Rat-Catchers Day, sometimes called Pied Piper Day, celebrating those who catch rats or drive them out of town. I'm in favor of that.

Here's a day for all of you math geeks out there - Pi Approximation Day. Today's date, written in the date/month format, is 22/7. That's an approximate value for pi. Don't confuse today with Pi Day, observed on March 14th.

Are you sleepy from reading too many blog posts? Rejoice, for today is Hammock Day. Have a wonderful nap.

National Penuche Fudge Day is a time to enjoy a sweet New England treat, also popular in parts of the Southern United States. Penuche is made from brown sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla, sometimes with maple syrup added for flavor. I could probably eat a lion's share of that.

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Invite an Alien to Live with You Day, Junk Food Day, more

July 21st, 2012, is Invite an Alien to Live with You Day, Toss Away the "Could Haves" and "Should Haves" Day, Legal Drinking Age Day, Monkey Day, Woodie Wagon Day, Canada's Parks Day, Independence Day (Belgium), National Junk Food Day, and National Lamington Cake Day. 

Today is Invite an Alien to Live with You Day. When I told my husband, he replied, "I thought you already did." Very cute. He's an alien from Oklahoma, you see, and he charmed me into inviting him to Missouri.... But I digress. Invite an Alien to Live with You Day falls on the birth date of Robin Williams, also known as "Mork from Ork."

We could all use a bit of the advice this holiday offers - Toss Away the "Could Haves" and "Should Haves" Day. Give yourself a break, move on from past mistakes, and aim higher in the future.

The legal drinking age varies from country to country, and birthdays occur on every day of the year. Maybe somebody was drinking when they decided that July 21st, more than any other day of the year, should be celebrated as Legal Drinking Age Day. Cheers, if you're legal.

July 21st is Monkey Day, commemorating the date when Scopes was found guilty during the Scopes Monkey Trial against teaching evolution in schools. Celebrate however you see fit - visit the monkeys at your local zoo, reminisce about David Letterman's Monkey Cam, or send a Monkey Day e-card. Enjoy!

The third Saturday in July is Woodie Wagon Day. Should make you smile, if you're old enough to remember when they were common. Get your photo fix at WoodyWagon.com.

If you're in Canada, pack a picnic basket, grab your sports equipment, and head out to a local park. Today is Canada's Parks Day.

Belgium observes Independence Day on July 21st, celebrating independence from the Netherlands.

Today is National Junk Food Day. If you normally abstain or enjoy junk food in moderation, feel free to go crazy just this once. On the other hand, if you eat junk food all the time, take this day as an opportunity to avoid junk food and explore some healthy alternatives.

National Lamington Cake Day is celebrated in Australia, paying homage to a sponge cake dipped in chocolate and topped with shredded coconut. Nice to learn about an Australian foodie tradition other than throwing shrimp on the barbie.

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Moon Day, Chess Day, Lollipop Day, more

July 20th, 2012, is Moon Day, Friends Day, Chess Day, Ugly Truck Day, Independence Day (Colombia), National Lollipop Day, and Fortune Cookie Day.

July 20th is Moon Day, commemorating the day in 1969 when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon and Armstrong became the first man to set foot there. Do you remember where you were on that historic day? Were you even born?

Friends Day is the creation of Enrique Febbraro, an Argentine teacher and musician, who was inspired by the global unity of man's first moon landing in 1969. The holiday has been celebrated in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Spain. The makers of Bodega Elena de Mendoza wine are bringing the celebration to the United States this year.

Today is Chess Day. Celebrate by playing a game, or, if you're a chess newbie like me, start to learn how.

Ugly Truck Day is here. Ugly is in the eye of the beholder, but a road-worn old truck has a certain charm, an aura of time passing.

Colombia observes its 201st Independence Day on this date, celebrating independence from Spain. Parades and other festivities are planned.

Lollipops put me in the mind of Shirley Temple singing "Good Ship Lollipop" and the Lollipop Guild from Wizard of Oz. More recently, Mika recorded "Lollipop." Enjoy the videos and have a happy National Lollipop Day!

Your fortune cookie fortune says...." Reading The Holiday Whiz every day leads to a long and prosperous life." Or maybe not. In any event, today is Fortune Cookie Day.

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Flitch Day, Triple Play Day, Daiquiri Day, more

July 19th, 2012, is Flitch Day, Get to Know Your Customer Day, Triple Play Day, Stick Out Your Tongue Day, National Daiquiri Day, and National Raspberry Cake Day.

Flitch Day is an old custom, practiced in Dunmore Priory, England, beginning in the 15th century. Couples who could convince a jury that they had lived in harmony and fidelity for the previous year would receive a flitch of bacon from the priory monks. The tradition has fallen in and out of popularity over the years. If you'd like a virtual flitch of bacon, check out "Bacon makes everything better."

The third Thursday of every quarter is Get to Know Your Customer Day. That's good advice for anyone in business.

Triple Play Day commemorates the first unassisted triple play in baseball, which happened back in 1909. The feat was achieved by Neal Ball, shortstop for the Cleveland Naps. He caught a line drive, touched second base, and tagged a runner. Major League-sanctioned triple plays have only occurred fifteen times.

Today is Stick Out Your Tongue Day. Doing so for no reason might get you labeled as rude or worse, so consider sticking out your tongue to enjoy a popsicle or an ice cream cone.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing rum drink with lime and simple syrup. Embrace National Daiquiri Day!

National Raspberry Cake Day is easy to celebrate, even if you don't bake. Take a store-bought pound cake (or a Twinkie!) and top it with fresh raspberries. Voila!

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Hug a Fat Bald Person Day, Caviar Day, more

July 18th, 2012, is Global Hug Your Kids Day, Hug a Fat Bald Person Day, Perfect Family Day, World Listening Day, Nelson Mandela International Day, Uruguay Constitution Day, and National Caviar Day.

Today is Hug a Fat Bald Person Day. Trouble is, if you tell the person you're hugging about the holiday, you're calling them fat and bald. Good luck with that.

July 18th is Perfect Family Day. What is a perfect family? Who's to say? Sometimes the family that looks perfect is hiding a different reality behind closed doors. Make the most of your family, however crazy they may seem sometimes, and love each other.

July 18th is the third annual World Listening Day. The date commemorates the birth of composer R. Murray Schafer, who established the World Soundscape Project. World Listening Day is meant to raise awareness of our sonic environment and acoustic ecology. Have you ever participated in a soundwalk?

Nelson Mandela International Day takes place on the birthday of the former South African President and human rights advocate. The Nelson Mandela Foundation and the United Nations ask everyone to devote 67 minutes of time today to helping others, in honor of the 67 years Nelson Mandela has given to serving humanity.

Uruguay observes Constitution Day on July 18th with parades, rallies, and marathons.

Do you enjoy caviar? Salted fish eggs are considered a delicacy by many, disgusting by others. Almas caviar is the most expensive caviar in the world, at $25,000 for a kilo in a 24-carat gold tin. Order several tins today, in honor of National Caviar Day.

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Yellow Pig Day, Wrong Way Corrigan Day, more

July 17th, 2012, is Yellow Pig Day, Wrong Way Corrigan Day, Constitution Day (South Korea), and National Peach Ice Cream Day.

Mathematicians unite today in celebration of Yellow Pig Day. Two students at Princeton were assigned the task of analyzing all things 17. In a moment of desperation, boredom, or delirium they created a mythical pig with seventeen toes, seventeen teeth, seventeen.... um..... you get the idea. Time to serve the Yellow Pig Cake!

Wrong Way Corrigan Day pays tribute to a man who was either a terrible pilot or a stubborn adventurer. In the 1930s Douglas Corrigan twice requested permission to fly from New York to Dublin, but twice his request was denied. He then applied to fly from New York to California instead, received permission, but somehow his flight from New York ended in Dublin. Amazing coincidence, eh?

South Korea observes Constitution Day, commemorating the day in 1948 when their constitution was ratified.

If it's hot where you are, refresh yourself with a big scoop of peach ice cream. Embellish with some fresh peach slices - delicious! Today is National Peach Ice Cream Day.

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Personal Chef Day, Get Out of the Doghouse Day, more

July 16th, 2012, is National Personal Chef Day, National Get Out of the Doghouse Day, Marine Day (Japan), Fresh Spinach Day, and National Corn Fritters Day.

July 16th is Personal Chef Day. Maybe they could whip up some corn fritters on a bed of fresh spinach. (Followed by creme brulee!)

National Get out of the Doghouse Day is always observed on the third Monday in July. What will you do to make up for past mistakes?

Marine Day is a newer holiday in Japan, celebrated on the third Monday in July since 2003. It is a day to admire the creatures of the sea and protect them for future generations.

My family prefers fresh spinach over cooked, so Fresh Spinach Day is perfect. A nice spinach salad with pecans, feta, croutons, and a reasonable amount of sesame dressing is light, healthy, and refreshing.

Try a southern specialty today in honor of National Corn Fritters Day.

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Be a Dork Day, I Love Horses Day, Sundae Sunday, more

July 15th, 2012, is Be a Dork Day, I Love Horses Day, Respect Canada Day, Disability Awareness Day, National Pet Fire Safety Day, St. Swithin's Day, National Tapioca Pudding Day, Gummi Worm Day, National Ice Cream Day, and Sundae Sunday.

How will you celebrate Be a Dork Day? My husband says you're a dork if you plan to do dorky things, so it's easy to participate.

Here's a day made for young girls with equestrian dreams. July 15th is I Love Horses Day. Try to rent the classic 1944 Elizabeth Taylor movie, National Velvet.

Respect Canada Day is a fine opportunity to learn a bit about Canadian history and famous Canadians.

Disability Awareness Day features three aims: enabling disabled people to be more indendent; promoting equipment to improve the lives of people with disabilities; and touting the abilities of disabled people to participate in sports, arts, and entertainment.

National Pet Fire Safety Day is the perfect time to survey your home and consider what flammable items might be within reach of your pets. Affix stickers to your windows, alerting the fire department that your house contains pets. Plan an escape route for your pets as well as for your human family.

St. Swithin's Day is a British tradition, akin to Groundhog Day in the United States. Whatever the weather on July 15th, according to the legend, it will continue for the next forty days. The real St. Swithin, actually Swithun, was a Saxon Bishop of Winchester. He wished to be buried outdoors, to be trodden on and rained on. When monks tried to move his body to a shrine inside Winchester Cathedral nine years after his death, a heavy rain storm occurred. Thus the legend began:

St. Swithin's day if thou dost rain
For forty days it will remain.
St. Swithin's day if thou be fair
For forty days 'twill rain nae mair.

Today is National Tapioca Pudding Day, not to be confused with National Tapioca Day on June 28th. Try some tapioca pudding and you just might discover a new dessert favorite.

Gummi or Gummy? Your choice. Either way, today is Gummi Worm Day. I like mine sour.

Now get ready to crave ice cream, because this day features two holidays that pay tribute to everybody's favorite cold treat. Take your pick - National Ice Cream Day or Sundae Sunday Day.

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National Nude Day, Pandemonium Day, Bald In-Bald Out Day, more

July 14th, 2012, is National Nude Day, Pandemonium Day, Bald In-Bald Out Day, Pick Blueberries Day, Republic Day (Iraq), Bastille Day, and National Grand Marnier Day.

The centerpiece of July's Take a Nakation Month is National Nude Day. Celebrate if you dare.

Feeling calm? Could you use a little more chaos in your life? Excellent! Today is Pandemonium Day. Don't get carried away, though, because Pandemonium is the capital of Hell in John Milton's Paradise Lost.

Bald In-Bald Out Day is supposedly observed on the second Saturday in July, but information is scarce. Nonetheless, everyone should be encouraged to be comfortable with their appearance, with or without hair.

This beautiful day in mid-July is the perfect time to celebrate Pick Blueberries Day.

Iraq celebrates Republic Day on July 14th.

France observes Bastille Day on July 14th, commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789. The day features a military parade on the Champs Elysees and fireworks at the Eiffel Tower.

National Grand Marnier Day honors a delicious orange liqueur, Grand Marnier.

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Cow Appreciation Day, Embrace Your Geekiness Day, more

July 13th, 2012, is Cow Appreciation Day, Friday the 13th, Barbershop Music Appreciation Day, Embrace Your Geekiness Day, Fool's Paradise Day, Gruntled Workers Day, National French Fries Day, and Beans 'n' Franks Day.

Chick-fil-A celebrates Cow Appreciation Day today. Get your cow on, costume-wise, to receive free food at your local Chick-fil-A restaurant.

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.

On Barbershop Music Appreciation Day, step back in time and enjoy the pure musical sound of the barbershop quartet. Here's a great example, with a modern twist:

Attention, geeks! It's time to step into the sunlight, raise your gadgets high, and embrace your geekiness. It's trendy these days! Celebrate Embrace Your Geekiness Day.
How will you celebrate Fool's Paradise Day? Are you a fool? Are you in paradise? Only you can say for sure.

Everybody knows the opposite of "disgruntled" is... um.... "gruntled." Here's wishing you a day of "gruntledness." It's Gruntled Workers Day!

These days people don't seem to need an excuse to eat french fries, but just in case you do, be aware that today is National French Fries Day. Please pass the ketchup. Or is it catsup? Never mind.

Today is Beans 'n' Franks Day. Eat them mixed together as an entree or serve as a sandwich with beans on the side, your choice.

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Paper Bag Day, Eat Your Jello Day, Pecan Pie Day, more

July 12th, 2012, is Paper Bag Day, Different Colored Eyes Day, Simplicity Day, Eat Your Jello Day, USA Woman VP Day, Independence Day (Sao Tome and Principe), Battle of the Boyne, and National Pecan Pie Day.

Paper or plastic? If you shop today, choose paper. July 12th is Paper Bag Day.

Are your eyes two different colors? The condition is known as hetero-chromia. July 12th is Different Colored Eyes Day.

July 12th is Simplicity Day, with a tip of the hat to author Henry David Thoreau who was born on the same date. BetterWorldCalendar.com advocates "voluntary simplicity," based on three elements: ecological awareness, frugal consumption, and personal growth.

July 12th is Eat Your Jell-O Day and also the birthday of Bill Cosby. Remember when he used to do television commercials for Jell-O Pudding? I can't find much documentation for this holiday, but it's worth mentioning just so I can link to this portrait of Cosby made of Jell-O shots!

July 12th is USA Woman VP Day, commemorating the date in 1984 when presidential candidate Walter Mondale selected Geraldine Ferraro as his running mate.

The Republic of Sao Tome and Principe observes Independence Day, celebrating independence from Portugal since 1975.

Northern Ireland remembers the 1690 Battle of the Boyne on July 12th, even though the battle actually took place on July 1st. That's the result of converting the date from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar.

Enjoy a truly decadent southern USA classic, pecan pie. July 12th is National Pecan Pie Day.

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7-Eleven Day, Bowdler's Day, World Population Day, more

July 11th, 2012, is 7-Eleven Day, National Cheer Up the Lonely Day, Bowdler's Day, Day of the Five Billion, World Population Day, and National Blueberry Muffin Day.

The famous convenience store celebrates its 85th birthday, 7-Eleven Day, on 7/11/12. You might score one of seven million free 7.11-ounce Slurpees - that's two million more than last year.

Observe National Cheer Up the Lonely Day by doing just that - cheering up someone in your life who is going through a hard time. Offer them a break from their routine, take them to lunch, or help them clean out their garage. You get the idea. Just remind them that they are not alone.

According to Dictionary.com, bowdlerize means "to expurgate (a written work) by removing or modifying passages considered vulgar or objectionable." The word comes from Thomas Bowdler (1754-1825), who edited the works of Shakespeare to fit his narrow vision of what is decent. He omitted Romeo and Juliet entirely. July 11th is Bowdler's Day in remembrance of Bowdler's birth date.

On July 11th, 1987, an eight-pound Yugoslavian baby boy was declared to be the five billionth inhabitant of our earth. Day of the Five Billion was surpassed by Day of the Six Billion on October 12th, 1999. On Halloween of 2011 we reached Day of the Seven Billion. That's an unbelievable growth rate, people.

Day of the Five Billion inspired the United Nations to create World Population Day, to raise awareness of our over-population epidemic and the dire future our descendants could face. If this population counter doesn't mesmerize and terrify you, you have ice in your veins.

Maybe you'd like something to eat while you enjoy your free Slurpee and worrying about population growth. How about a blueberry muffin, since today is National Blueberry Muffin Day?

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Teddy Bear Picnic Day, Clerihew Day, Pina Colada Day, more

July 10th, 2012, is Teddy Bear Picnic Day, Clerihew Day, Don't Step on a Bee Day, Independence Day (Bahamas), and National Pina Colada Day.

June 10th is Teddy Bear Picnic Day. How sweet! Take your teddy bear for a picnic, along with any little ones in your life. They'll think you're awesome! Sing the "Teddy Bears' Picnic" if you like.

In honor of Clerihew Day, try writing your own clerihew. A clerihew is a form of verse originated by Edmund Clerihew Bentley, featuring an AABB rhyme scheme, with the subject matter in the first line. An authentic clerihew is humorous. Here's an example by Bentley himself:

Edward the Confessor
Slept under the dresser.
When that began to pall
He slept in the hall.

I think every day should be Don't Step on a Bee Day, but someone decided to make it an official holiday every July 10th.

Independence Day is celebrated in the Bahamas on July 10th, commemorating their independence from Britain since 1973.

Today is National Pina Colada Day, so celebrate with a classically tropical rum and pineapple delight.

 

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Hop-a-Park Day, Goat Mother's Day, Sugar Cookie Day, more

July 9th, 2012, is National Hop-a-Park Day, Goat Mother's Day, Town Crier Day, Independence Day (Argentina), Youth Day (Morocco), Martyrdom of the Bab, and National Sugar Cookie Day.

On National Hop-a-Park Day, visit a variety of parks in your area. They may have organized events, or maybe not, but you and your family are bound to have fun and discover new reasons to love your local parks.

Documentation for this holiday is hard to find, but the name and concept intrigue me. Sooo.... Happy Goat Mother's Day!

The second Monday in July is Town Crier Day, in remembrance of the days when people learned about the latest news from a man ringing a bell in the middle of town square. Today, with Twitter and such, all of us are techno town criers.

Argentina gained independence from Spain in 1810. July 9th is Argentina's Independence Day.

Morocco celebrates Youth Day on July 9th, remembering the 1929 birth date of King Hassan II.

Followers of the Bahai faith observe the Martyrdom of the Bab today. The martyrdom took place in Tabriz in 1850.

July 9th is National Sugar Cookie Day. If it's too hot to bake where you are, feel free to buy some. Support your local bakery!

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Video Games Day, Milk Chocolate with Almonds Day, more

July 8th, 2012, is Video Games Day, SCUD Day, Be a Kid Again Day, and National Milk Chocolate with Almonds Day.

Attention, gamers - today is Video Games Day. Now you have a legit excuse to play all day and all night.

SCUD Day (Savor the Comic, Unplug the Drama) might be my favorite offbeat holiday. I love the name; I embrace the sentiment. We could all use a little more laughter and a little less confrontation.

July 8th is Be a Kid Again Day. What does that mean to you? Blowing bubbles? Laughing until milk squirts out of your nose? Coloring outside the lines? Just do it!

July 8th is National Milk Chocolate with Almonds Day. My daughter wants me to erase the "with almonds" part, but I don't create the holidays. I just report them to you, loyal readers.

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Day of Cooperatives, Taabata, Saba Saba, Chocolate Day, more

July 7th, 2012, is Father-Daughter Take a Walk Day, International Cherry Pit Spitting Championship, International Day of Cooperatives, Bonza Bottler Day, Global Forgiveness Day, Tell the Truth Day, Tanabata Japanese Star Festival, Independence Day (Solomon Islands), Saba Saba (Tanzania), Chocolate Day, National Strawberry Sundae Day, and National Macaroni Day.

Father-Daughter Take a Walk Day is July 7th. What a charming holiday! Daddy and Daughter get some quality bonding time; Mommy gets some peace and quiet! What's not to love?

Don't miss the 39th annual International Cherry Pit Spitting Championship - they say it's "Spit-tacular!"

International Day of Cooperatives is observed on the first Saturday in July. "The development of small enterprise groups can benefit rural economies because they help promote growth in rural areas."

Bonza Bottler Day is here again. It comes around every month, when the numbers representing the month and the date are the same. 7/7, for example.

CECA (Christian Embassy of Christ's Ambassadors) founded the celebration now known as Global Forgiveness Day in Canada in 1994. CECA states: "Our world is full of unresolved conflicts: internationally, locally and in our homes. It's not just in distant lands where angry thoughts turn to angry words and then angry actions.... Forgiveness is the key. Forgiving allows us to lay down the right to claim retribution (openly or inwardly in our hearts and minds). Forgiving allows us to deal with, and then look past all the hurt and consequences of the offense. Forgiving pardons the offender and the offense. This does not mean to forget, in fact, we must remember as a way to remind ourselves that we too might be guilty of the same offense."

Today is Tell the Truth Day. Take the challenge - on this day, let no lie cross your lips.

Tanabata, the Japanese Star Festival, is celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month. July 7th is the date of the festival for some; August 7th for others who follow the lunar calendar. The holiday is based on a Chinese legend involving two heavenly lovers, Altair and Vega, separated by the Milky Way, allowed to meet only on this one special day each year.

The Solomon Islands observe Independence Day on July 7th, commemorating their independence from Britain.

Saba Saba, literally "seven seven" in Swahili, is celebrated in Tanzania on July 7th. The holiday is also known as Worker's Day, Industry's Day, or Peasant's Day. Some areas of Tanzania celebrate Nane Nane instead - "eight eight" - on August 8th.

Just in case you need an excuse to have your chocolate fix, I'm here to help. July 7th is Chocolate Day!

How do you pronounce the word "sundae?" Some say "sun-duh," but I'm a "sun-day" girl. Any way you say it, have a happy National Strawberry Sundae Day.

Today is National Macaroni Day. Did you ever make a textured work of art using a variety of macaroni shapes and glue? So much fun. After that, enjoy a bowl of mac and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs, or fuselli with mushrooms!

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Take Your Webmaster to Lunch Day, Fried Chicken Day, more

July 6th, 2012, is Take Your Webmaster to Lunch Day, Running of the Bulls Festival, Day of Statehood (Lithuania), Independence Day (Comoros), Republic Day (Malawi), and National Fried Chicken Day.

Do you have a webmaster? If so, do the right thing for your tech guru today - celebrate Take Your Webmaster to Lunch Day.

The Running of the Bulls Festival takes place in Pamplona, Spain from July 6th to July 14th each year. Today's opening ceremonies feature fireworks and celebration.

Lithuania celebrates the Day of Statehood on July 6th, honoring their one and only king, Mindaugas. King Mindaugas was crowned in 1253. Modern-day festivities feature knights, old-time crafts, and music.

Comoros celebrates Independence Day on July 6th. The country gained independence from France in 1975.

Malawi celebrates Republic Day or National Day, commemorating their independence from Britain in 1966.

Perhaps you've had enough barbecue in recent days. If so, you'll be glad to know that today is National Fried Chicken Day.

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Workaholics Day, Bikini Day, Apple Turnover Day, more

July 5th, 2012, is Workaholics Day, Bikini Day, Independence Day (Venezuela), National Apple Turnover Day, and Graham Cracker Day.

In addition, today the earth reaches aphelion at approximately 04:00 UT on July 5th, 2012.

If you celebrated Independence Day yesterday in the USA, eating barbecue, spending time with family, oohing and aahing at fireworks, but at the same time thinking about spreadsheets, agendas, and business strategies, you might be a workaholic. Take a few minutes from your oh-so-busy schedule to celebrate Workaholics Day. Or, better yet, try to relax a little and stop being such a workaholic.

It's a sad, sad time for men when Bikini Day falls during the work week. So sorry, guys. Next year schedule your beach vacation to include July 5th! Here's a retro tune, "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini," featuring a Sims 2 beauty:

Venezuela celebrates Independence Day on July 5th, remembering the Battle of Carabobo when Spanish colonists were ousted.

Just because the work week has begun for most of us, doesn't mean we can't enjoy a tasty treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. National Apple Turnover Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a traditional American favorite.

If you don't have time or inclination to celebrate National Apple Turnover Day, here's an easier option - Graham Cracker Day. Just open a box and you're good  you're good to go.

 

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Earth at Aphelion on July 4th and 5th, 2012

On July 5th, 2012, at approximately 04:00 Universal Time, our earth will be at aphelion, its farthest point from the sun. For some of us, including the USA, that means July 4th. Convert UT to your local time here.

Earth and sun. Image: idea go; FreeDigitalPhotos

The earth travels around the sun on a slightly elliptical path. Every July the earth reaches aphelion, its farthest point from the sun. About six months later, in January, the earth reaches perihelion, its closest point to the sun. At aphelion the earth is 94.5 million miles from the sun.

According to Merriam-Webster, the first syllables of aphelion can be pronounced as "a feel" or "app heel." Your choice. Either way, you're bound to impress your friends with your knowledge.

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USA Independence Day, Sidewalk Egg Frying Day, more

July 4th, 2012, is Independence Day (USA), Independence from Meat Day, American Redneck Day, Sidewalk Egg Frying Day, National Country Music Day, Indivisible Day, National Caesar Salad Day, and National Barbecued Spareribs Day.

In some parts of the world, on July 4th, 2012, the earth is at aphelion.

July 4th is Independence Day in the United States, commemorating our independence from Britain and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Families traditionally eat barbecue, attend festivals, and enjoy fireworks. Happy Birthday, USA!

In the USA, promoting Independence from Meat Day on July 4th is probably an exercise in futility, but perhaps that's the point. My sun hat is off to anyone who chooses to go vegetarian in the midst of grilled ribs, chicken, pork steak, brats, hotdogs, and more.

On American Redneck Day, send an ecard to your redneck friends or listen to some classic Jeff Foxworthy routines.

July 4th is also Sidewalk Egg Frying Day, because in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere it is inded hot enough to cook eggs on the sidewalk this time of year. I still prefer a skillet, though.

National Country Music Day celebrates a form of music that truly is American. Whether you prefer Loretta Lynn or Taylor Swift, enjoy.

 Indivisible Day is observed in Minnesota, USA, in recognition of the importance of separation of church and state. (Maybe it's just me, but shouldn't the day be called Divisible Day or Separation Day?)

The birthday of the USA is also the birthday of the Caesar Salad. This popular restaurant salad features a bed of romaine and a dressing made from anchovy, mustard, egg yolk, garlic, parmesan, and lemon juice. Much yummier than it sounds! Shoot off some (legal) green fireworks in honor of National Caesar Salad Day. Stay safe out there, loyal readers!

Many Americans celebrate National Barbecued Spareribs Day without even realizing it, just by enjoying summer and Independence Day. Delish!

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