Mud Pack Day, Blasphemy Day, Hot Mulled Cider Day, more

September 30th, 2012, is Chewing Gum Day, National Mud Pack Day, The Time for Yoga, Hug a Vegetarian Day, International Day of Prayer and Action for Human Habitat, Sport Purple for Platelets Day, Blasphemy Day, Feast of Saint Jerome, and National Hot Mulled Cider Day.

Chewing Gum Day commemorates the birth date of William Wrigley, Jr. Wrigley didn't invent chewing gum, but he did make it popular. In the spirit of the day, check out some chewing gum art!

Take time to pamper yourself today, National Mud Pack Day. Choose a facial or splurge on a full body wrap!

The Time for Yoga is here at last. Studios across the country are offering a free week of yoga or other promotions, "inspiring everyone to live a healthy life."

According to Peta2, the young adult division of Peta, "adopting a meat-free diet saves the lives of about 100 animals per year. Today is Hug a Vegetarian Day.

International Day of Prayer and Action for Human Habitat, sponsored by Habitat for Humanity, is usually observed on the third Sunday in September, but this year they moved it to the last Sunday. "The Day of Prayer began in 1983 to make housing a matter of conscience. The intent was to place in the hearts, minds and souls of people everywhere the idea that poverty housing is unacceptable. The New Testament passage from 1 John 3:17 teaches that we must respond to those in need."

Sport Purple for Platelets Day is an effort to raise awareness about ITP, immune thrombocytopenia. The autoimmune disease destroys platelets and sometimes impairs platelet production.

Blasphemy Day is meant to highlight the right to free speech and the right to be a nonbeliever.

September 30th is the Feast Day of Saint Jerome, the patron saint of librarians.

National Hot Mulled Cider Day honors a beverage that smells of autumn and harvest time.

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September full moon and Uranus in oppositon

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for September 2012 takes place on September 29th or 30th, depending on your location. Also on September 29th this year, Uranus is in opposition to the sun, meaning it is at its closest point to Earth and bright in the sky.

Following is a list of full moon names for September, ranging from common to surprising:

Corn Maker Moon - Abenaki
Middle Between Harvest and Eating Corn - Algonquin
Rice Moon - Anishnaabe
Drying Grass - Arapaho
Geese Shedding Their Feathers Moon - Arapano
Yellow Leaf Moon - Assiniboine
Binara Poya - Buddhist
Singing Moon - Celtic
Black Butterfly Moon - Cherokee
Nut Moon - Cherokee
Drying Grass Moon - Cheyenne
Chrysanthemum Moon - Chinese
Little Chestnut Moon - Choctaw
Mulberry Moon - Choctaw
Harvest Moon - Colonial American
Paperman Moon - Comanche
School Moon - Comanche
Leaves Change Color Moon - Cree
Snow Goose Moon - Cree
Wavy Moon - Cree
Little Chestnut Moon - Creek
Moon When the Calves Grow Hair - Dakotah Sioux
Fruit Moon - English
Barley Moon - English Medieval
Ice Moon - Haida
Bhadrapad Poornima - Hindu
Moon of Full Harvest - Hopi
Moon of Plenty - Hopi
Aklikarniarvik - Inuit
After Harvest - Kalapuya
End of Summer - Kalapuya
Kinati daawaatra - Keresan
Moon When the Leaves Fall Off - Kiowa
Dancing Moon - Klamath
Index - Finger (counting on fingers, beginning with thumb in August) - Klamath
Halakwol - Kumeyaay
Moon of the Brown Leaves - Lakota
Acorns Gathered Moon - Maidu
Time of Much Freshness - Mohawk
Little Chestnut Moon - Muskokee
Maize Moon - Natchez
Full Corn Moon - Native American
Half Moon - Navajo
Harvest Moon - Neo Pagan
Moon When the Deer Paw the Earth - Omaha
Autumn Moon - Passamaquoddy
Soaproot Dug for Fish Poison - Pomo
Moon When the Corn Is Taken In - Pueblo
Ripe Moon - San Juan
Papaw Moon - Shawnee
Fall Moon - Shoshone
Black Calf - Sioux
Calves Grow Hair Moon - Sioux
Moon of Drying Grass - Sioux
Moon When the Plums Are Scarlet - Sioux
Big Moon - Tlingit
Young Moon - Tlingit
Barley Moon - Wiccan
Her Acorns Moon - Wishram
Hay Cutting Moon - Yuchi
Corn Is Harvested Moon - Zuni
When Everything Ripens Moon - Zuni

Sources for full moon names:

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

More about the moon:

• 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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Poisoned Blackberries Day, Michaelmas, Goose Day, more

September 29th, 2012, is National Poisoned Blackberries Day, Dia del Inventor, National Attend Your Grandchild's Birthday, World Heart Day, VFW Day, Michaelmas, Goose Day, Chinese Moon Festival, National Museum Day, National Public Lands Day, Family Health and Fitness Day USA, National Mocha Day, and National Coffee Day.

Long ago, the Devil supposedly poisoned all of the blackberries in Scotland. In rememberance, we observe  National Poisoned Blackberries Day today. If today is your birthday, consider purchasing a unique coffee mug.

Dia del Inventor honors Laszlo Biro, the inventor of the ballpoint pen.

Most grandparents seem eager to spend time with their grandkids, but just in case some need encouragement, today is National Attend Your Grandchild's Birthday.

On World Heart Day, the World Heart Federation challenges you to "take charge of your family's heart health and become your home's advocate for heart-healthy living."

VFW Day honors Veterans of Foreign Wars and their organization, founded in 1899.

Michaelmas is a traditional Christian harvest feast, celebrating the fall equinox and honoring Saint Michael the Archangel.

Goose Day, a lingering remnant of Michaelmas, is celebrated every year in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, USA. Fire up the oven and roast that goose.

The Chinese Moon Festival is held in conjunction with the September full moon.

On National Museum Day, sponsored by Smithsonian Magazine, participating museums offer free admission to anyone who presents a Museum Day ticket. This event is always held on the last Saturday in September.

National Public Lands Day, always the last Saturday in September, is the largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands in the United States.

Family Health and Fitness Day USA is always celebrated on the last Saturday in September, to promote family involvement in physical activity.

On National Mocha Day, have a sweet combo of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate. Delish!

If mocha seems too decadent or fancy, take time to relax and enjoy plain old coffee in honor of National Coffee Day.

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Ask a Stupid Question Day, Fish Tank Floorshow Night, more

September 28th, 2012, is Ask a Stupid Question Day, Fish Tank Floorshow Night, Native American Day, National Good Neighbor Day, World Rabies Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, National Drink Beer Day, and National Strawberry Cream Pie Day.

Opinions vary as to the exact date of Ask a Stupid Question Day, so don't ask. Let's choose the creative option and say that Ask a Stupid Question Day falls on the last school day in September. Now, what stupid question would you care to ask?

Fish Tank Floorshow Night is a funny concept that can be taken two ways - gather 'round the fishtank and let them entertain you, or gather 'round the fishtank and entertain the fish. For those of you who don't have a fish tank, I've scoured the net for a superior video:

The fourth Friday in September is Native American Day. Take time to learn the truth about the history of the first inhabitants of North America, and appreciate the beauty of their heritage.

National Good Neighbor Day used to be observed on the fourth Sunday in September, but now it is always observed on September 28th. Do something nice - bake a pie for your neighbors, invite them over for a cold beverage, or simply introduce yourself if you've never done so.

World Rabies Day, observed annually since 2007, is meant to raise awareness around the world about rabies prevention and treatment. Key points to remember are: vaccinate animals; wash bite wounds; and get prompt medical care after a bite.

The fine people who run the Gone-ta-Pott website celebrate Gone-ta-Pott Day on the 28th of every month.

September 28th is National Drink Beer Day. Enjoy a tasty brew on tap, by the bottle, or even by the can.

If you're in the mood for a luscious dessert, you're in luck. Today is National Strawberry Cream Pie Day.

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Tourism Day, Crush a Can Day, Corned Beef Hash Day, more

September 27th, 2012, is World Tourism Day, Ancestor Appreciation Day, Honor Your Ancestors Day, National Crush a Can Day, Maskal, National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, National Corned Beef Hash Day, and National Chocolate Milk Day.

The theme of World Tourism Day in 2012 is "Tourism and Sustainable Energy: Sustainable Development." The purpose of World Tourism Day is "to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value."

Today is Ancestor Appreciation Day, also known as Honor Your Ancestors Day. Celebrate by sharing photos and stories about your ancestors with younger members of your family, or by asking older relatives about your heritage. Such stories are priceless.

National Crush a Can Day is a holiday for fun or for going green, depending on your perception. Why not embrace both?

Ethiopia observes Maskal, the finding of the true cross, on September 27th. Maskal daisies are gathered in town squares, and processions of torch-bearers gather in the squares and light pyres.

Today is the fifth annual National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. The event is designed to "raise gay men's awareness of the HIV epidemic and the role they can play in bringing it to an end."

National Corned Beef Hash Day celebrates a retro dish designed to use leftovers, but generally there's no corn in it.

Nothing speaks to childhood memories quite like a glass of cold chocolate milk. Try some today in honor of National Chocolate Milk Day. Add a pinch of salt for a special twist.

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Lumberjack Day, Awesome Because You Totally Don't Have to Bathe Day, more

September 26th, 2012, is European Day of Languages, Lumberjack Day, National Women's Health and Fitness Day, Johnny Appleseed Day, and National Pancake Day.

Today is the eleventh annual European Day of Languages. The celebration involves forty-seven countries. Learn some foreign phrases, host a party, or find other ways to celebrate.

Lumberjack Day was created by Marianne Ways and Colleen AF Venable in 2005, not only as an excuse to eat pancakes and waffles, but also as an alternative to Talk Like a Pirate Day (celebrated a week prior). Today's holiday is also known as Talk Like a Lumberjack Day, Eat Like a Lumberjack Day, Attack Wooden Objects Like a Lumberjack Day, and Today's Awesome Because You Totally Don't Have to Bathe Day.

The last Wednesday in September is National Women's Health and Fitness Day. Perhaps I should invest in one of those exercise ball chairs, so I can exercise as I blog and edit.

Johnny Appleseed Day commemorates the 1774 birth date of a man famous for planting apple seeds throughout Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.

Celebrate National Pancake Day with a tall stack, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. What are your favorite toppings? Peanut butter and bacon, perhaps?

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One-Hit Wonder Day, Comic Book Day, more

September 25th, 2012, is One-Hit Wonder Day, National Comic Book Day, World Maritime Day, World Ataxia Awareness Day, and National Crab Meat Newburg Day.

Music writer Steve Rosen created One-Hit Wonder Day in 1990, to honor the many musicians who hit the charts for one moment of glory, then faded away. Who's your fave one-hit wonder? 'lll have to say Jigsaw, who did "Sky High" in 1975.

On National Comic Book Day, take time out from electronic entertainment and pick up a good, old-fashioned comic book. Most entertaining.

World Maritime Day is celebrated on different days in different countries, but usually during the last week in September. The event, organized by the International Maritime Organization, is meant to "focus attention on the importance of maritime security and the marine environment and to emphasize a particular aspect of IMO's work."

World Ataxia Awareness Day offers an opportunity to learn more about ataxia, a disorder of the nervous system. The word "ataxia" comes from the Greek, meaning "without order or incoordination."

On National Crab Meat Newburg Day, enjoy a delicate crab dish with cream and sherry. Theories vary about the origin of the name. For more information, check out the history of Lobster Newburg.

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Day to Eat Dinner with your Children, Punctuation Day, more

September 24th, 2012, is Family Day - A Day to Eat Dinner with your Children, National Punctuation Day, and National Cherries Jubilee Day.

Family Day - A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children was founded by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University in 2001. Their philosophy is simple: "The more often kids eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs."

National Punctuation Day, celebrated today and August 22nd, is near and dear to my heart. Consider brushing up on the proper use of commas, colons, and apostrophes.

If you're brave, if you have a fire extinguisher, and if your insurance is up to date, feel free to celebrate National Cherries Jubilee Day. Ready, set, flambe!

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Gold Star Mother's Day, Checkers Day, American Pot Pie Day, more

September 23rd, 2012, is Gold Star Mother's Day, Checkers Day, Dogs in Politics Day, Love Note Day, Celebrate Bisexuality Day, Bi Visibility Day, and Great American Pot Pie Day.

Gold Star Mother's Day is always observed on the last Sunday in September. Families often hung service flags with stars for each family member in service - blue stars for active, gold stars for the deceased. The day was originally established in honor of mothers who lost sons or daughters in wartime, but today American Gold Star Mothers are "mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the service of our country." Take a moment to consider the sacrifices many have made to preserve our freedom.

Today is known as Checkers Day and Dogs in Politics Day, both thanks to Richard Nixon. While running for Vice President in 1952, he gave a September 23rd speech that came to be known as the "Checkers Speech." Checkers was the Nixon family dog.

If your love life could use a little boost, embrace the simple sentiment of Love Note Day. Write a poem or simply share your feelings from the heart. If the one you love loves you back, your gesture will be well rewarded!

Celebrate Bisexuality Day, known in the UK as Bi Visibility Day, is a time to replace biphobia with tolerance and understanding.

Today is Great American Pot Pie Day, sponsored by the famous pot pie maker Marie Callender.

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Libra the Scales, September 23 to October 22

Libra. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Everyone born between September 23rd and October 22nd is a Libra, the sign of the Scales.

For more information about Libra:

• Libra Daily Horoscopes
• What's-Your-Sign for Libra
• Astrology.com: Libra Sun Sign
• Farmers' Almanac: Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained

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Equinox, Fish Amnesty Day, Elephant Appreciation Day, more

September 22nd, 2012, is Autumnal Equinox (Northern Hemisphere), Spring Equinox (Southern Hemisphere), National Hunting and Fishing Day, Fish Amnesty Day, Elephant Appreciation Day, Hobbit Day, World Carfree Day, Dear Diary Day, National Centenarian's Day, RAINN Day, Electrical Rain Day, Business Women's Day, International Day of Radiant Peace, Resistance Day (Estonia), National Ice Cream Cone Day, and National White Chocolate Day.

During the two equinoxes of the year, day and night are approximately the same length. This year the September Equinox happens at 14:49 UTC. The September Equinox is known as the Autumnal Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and the Spring Equinox or Vernal Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere. 

The motto for National Hunting and Fishing Day is, "Hunt. Shoot. Fish. Share the pride!" I guess that about covers it.

Fish Amnesty Day was created by PETA in response to the holiday above. It's your choice which, if either, to follow.

Elephant Appreciation Day was first celebrated in 1996 by Wayne Hepburn, an avid collector of elephant figurines and art, in honor of everything elephant.

Hobbit Day commemorates the birthdays of Bilbo and Frodo, two characters from J.R.R. Tolkein's Middle Earth books. According to the American Tolkein Society, "Hobbit Day is a virtually ideal holiday, incorporating attractive elements of several others: the masquerade fun of Halloween, the feast of Thanksgiving, the exchange of greeting cards and gifts associated with Christmas and birthdays, the picnic atmosphere of Labor Day and Memorial Day, the fireworks of Independence Day (or Guy Fawkes Day)...and the study and reflection associated with many commemorative days throughout the year."

World Carfree Day is a day to consider walking, biking, or public transportation as an alternative to the car in your garage. On this day, according to the day's founders, "people from around the world get together in the streets, intersections, and neighbourhood blocks to remind the world that we don't have to accept our car-dominated society." Just don't get hurt or arrested, please.

Dear Diary Day celebrates the joy and therapeutic value of journaling.

Do you know anyone who is 100 years old or older? If so, do something special in their honor today, National Centenarian's Day. Consider the changes they've witnessed. What stories they have to tell!

RAINN Day, sponsored by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, is designed to raise awareness and prevent sexual violence on college campuses.

I dub September 22nd Electrical Rain Day, due to the fact that electrified rain fell in Sweden in 1773, sparking and setting fires when it hit the ground.

Business Women's Day celebrates women who bring home the bacon, whether they fry it up in a pan or order in.

The Radiant Peace Foundation International, Inc., encourages everyone to celebrate International Day of Radiant Peace in any form they choose - "from individual reflection and meditation to joyous gatherings at special events like Radiant Peace Walks and picnics."

Estonia observes Resistance Day on September 22nd.

Today is National Ice Cream Cone Day. Go crazy - have ice cream in the cone!

National White Chocolate Day celebrates a sweet item that is white but isn't technically chocolate. White chocolate contains no cocoa solids. Oh well - it's still delicious.

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Gratitude Day, POW/MIA Recognition Day, Pecan Cookie Day, more

September 21st, 2012, is Miniature Golf Day, World Gratitude Day, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, International Day of Peace, World Alzheimer's Day, Independence Day (Belize), Independence Day (Malta), and National Pecan Cookie Day.

No matter the weather, since many miniature golf courses are indoors, celebrate Miniature Golf Day. Makes for a fun family outing or a unique date destination.

A world-wide Thanksgiving of sorts, World Gratitude Day is a time to take stock of everything you have to be thankful for. I'm thankful for my family and friends, our reasonably good health, living in the modern world with our many conveniences, my Holiday Whiz readers, and so much more.

The third Friday in September is National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Remember those who gave their lives, one way or another, for the sake of our freedom. If you know someone who has a family member designated as a POW or MIA, do something special for them on this day.

The International Day of Peace is always observed on September 21st. In years past, their website suggested many ways to participate: "Anyone, anywhere can celebrate Peace Day. It can be as simple as lighting a candle at noon, or just sitting in silent meditation. Or it can involve getting your co-workers, organization, community or government engaged in a large event. The impact of millions of people in all parts of the world, coming together for one day of peace, is immense."

World Alzheimer's Day is a time to raise awareness, to make a difference for those suffering with dementia and their families.

Belize celebrates Independence Day  with festivals, concerts, parades, and performers wearing gorgeous native costumes.

Malta observes Independence Day, celebrating independence from Great Britain.

Celebrate National Pecan Cookie Day - the pecans mean you're eating healthy!

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Rum Punch Day

September 20th, 2012, is National Rum Punch Day.

Amazingly, I can find no additional holidays to celebrate today, other than my own Wedding Anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Love!

National Rum Punch Day should have been observed yesterday, along with International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Arrrr! Oh well. Maybe I'll have just a little rum punch....

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Talk Like a Pirate Day, Butterscotch Pudding Day, more

September 19th, 2012, is International Talk Like a Pirate Day, National School Backpack Awareness Day, Ganesh Chaturthi, and National Butterscotch Pudding Day.

Avast, me mateys! Today is International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Arrr! If you need help with your "pirattude," Ol' Chumbucket and Cap'n Slappy are here to help:

National School Backpack Awareness Day takes place on the third Wednesday in September. The American Occupational Therapy Association encourages everyone to avoid injury from overloaded backpacks and bags.

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in parts of India as the birth celebration of the Elephant God. Along with other celebrations and fireworks, idols of the God are immersed in seas, lakes, and rivers.

September 19th is National Butterscotch Pudding Day. Sounds delicious. Butterscotch contains butter, but it has nothing to do with whiskey or being Scottish. According to wordorigins.org: "The scotch in butterscotch comes from the Middle English scocchen, and from there probably from the Old French coche and the Latin Vulgate cocca, meaning a notch or nick. The candy was notched, or scored, to make it easier to break into pieces"

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Get Ready Day, Hug a Greeting Card Writer Day, Cheeseburger Day, more

September 18th, 2012, is Get Ready Day, National Respect Day, Hug a Greeting Card Writer Day, World Bamboo Day, Air Force Birthday, World Water Monitoring Day, National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day, Independence Day (Chile), and National Cheeseburger Day.

Get Ready Day is observed on the third Tuesday in September. It's time to do whatever you do to prepare for the upcoming flu season.

In honor of National Respect Day, take a moment to consider how you would like to be treated. Treat others with respect, and that respect is usually returned. Counter disrespect with respect, and watch how the other person's hostility dissolves. Set an example for the people around you, especially the young ones, because they most certainly are watching. Thank you for your time.

Today is Hug a Greeting Card Writer Day, just in case you happen to know one. If a hug isn't convenient, send them a greeting card.

World Bamboo Day has been observed since 2009, to publicize bamboo as a practical, sustainable material. "The World Bamboo Organization aims to bring the potential of bamboo to a more elevated exposure – to protect natural resources and the environment, to ensure sustainable utilization, to promote new cultivation of bamboo for new industries in regions around the world, as well as promote traditional uses locally for community economic development."

September 18th is Air Force Birthday, commemorating the date in 1947 when the U.S.A.F. became a separate branch of the military.

World Water Monitoring Day is designed to build public awareness about the purity of our water and to encourage citizens to monitor the bodies of water in their communities.

National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day focuses on the needs of older adults, regarding prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

Chile observes Independence Day today. Fiestas Patrias are patriotic parties, enjoyed by all.

The obvious way to celebrate National Cheeseburger Day is to eat a cheeseburger, of course.

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Pledge Across America, Eat an Apple Day, more

September 17th, 2012, is Constitution Day, Pledge Across America, Respect for the Aged Day, National Apple Dumpling Day, and International Eat an Apple Day.

Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787.

Pledge Across America takes place on Constitution Day or the nearest school day. Say the Pledge of Allegiance at the appointed time, along with Americans across the country.

Japan celebrates Respect for the Aged Day on the third Monday in September. I'm not exactly "aged" yet, but a little respect would be nice.

I've never had an apple dumpling. Maybe it's time to rectify that situation, since today is National Apple Dumpling Day.

Maybe you're not in the mood for apple dumplings, but you still like apples. Have one straight from the tree or in some other recipe, because today is International Eat an Apple Day.

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Collect Rocks Day, Working Parents Day, Guacamole Day, more

September 16th, 2012, is Collect Rocks Day, National Play Doh Day, National Women's Friendship Day. National Neighborhood Day, Wrinkled Raincoat Day, National Stepfamily Day, National Working Parents Day, National Wife Appreciation Day, Mayflower Day, Anne Bradstreet Day, International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, Independence Day (Mexico) Independence Day (Papua New Guinea), and National Guacamole Day.

Look down at the ground as you go about your business today. Go off the beaten path in search of nature's beauty or a real treasure. Today is Collect Rocks Day.

Celebrate National Play Doh Day with a young person. Rekindle the fun of making pasta, worms, coiled bowls, and any number of fanciful creations.

The third Sunday in September is National Women's Friendship Day. Do something special for the women in your life who are always there when you need to laugh, to cry, or to simply talk.

The third Sunday in September is also National Neighborhood Day. Do you take pride in your neighborhood? Do you know your neighbors by name? Everyone is busy these days, but take time to extend a hand in friendship.

Wrinkled Raincoat Day is a tribute to Peter Falk, the actor who played the rumply detective Columbo on TV for many years. Just one more thing.... Falk was born on this date in 1927.

These days many family trees are complicated. No matter, as long as the branches are nurtured with love. Celebrate National Stepfamily Day.

Today is National Working Parents Day. If you're a working parent, consider taking time off to recharge or spend more time with your family. Many of us are home on Sunday, anyway. Take full advantage of this precious opportunity.

Attention all loving husbands! Today is National Wife Appreciation Day. Even a few words of appreciation will do, along with a romantic kiss. Flowers or diamonds are optional.

September 16th is Mayflower Day, commemorating the date in 1620 when the Pilgrims and other passengers and crew left Plymouth, England, beginning a 66-day voyage to the New World.

Anne Bradstreet Day honors a Puritan woman, considered by many to be the first American poet. Her birth date is not known; September 16th, 1672 is the date of her death.

September 16th is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, sponsored by the United Nations. The theme for 2012 is "Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come."

Mexico observes Independence Day on September 16th, celebrating independence from Spain. The celebration is bigger than Cinco de Mayo. When the clock strikes eleven in Mexico City, the president shouts, "Viva Mexico! Viva la Independencia!" All across Mexico, in unison, people echo those words.

On this date in 1975, Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia. Happy Independence Day!

Today's only food celebration is National Guacamole Day. Whip up a fresh batch of guac, grab a bowl of chips, and enjoy. Add a Mexican beer or a margarita if you so choose!

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Big Whopper Liars' Contest, Felt Hat Day, Chicken Lover's Day, more

September 15th, 2012, is International Gotcha Day, Make a Hat Day, Felt Hat Day, Engineer's Day, International Day of Democracy, Greenpeace Day, Independence Day (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua), National Creme de Menthe Day, Chicken Lovers' Day, and National Linguine Day.

International Gotcha Day isn't what you might think. It's a celebration of adoption - controversial in some circles.

Every day brings a new opportunity to be creative. Unleash your hidden milliner in honor of Make a Hat Day! Remember Johnny from Airplane? He made a hat (and a brooch and a pterodactyl) from a simple weather report.

If you have a scrap of felt available, use it to craft your hat. Or check your hat boxes for a stylish felt fedora. Today is Felt Hat Day.

India celebrates Engineer's Day on September 15th, honoring Sir M. Visvesvaraya. The famed engineer designed dams, bridges, and irrigation systems throughout India.

The International Day of Democracy, sponsored by the United Nations, is designed to encourage governments to "strengthen national programmes devoted to the promotion and consolidation of democracy."

Greenpeace Day celebrates the 1971 founding of Greenpeace. In their words, "Greenpeace is the largest independent direct-action environmental organization in the world. We do not take money from government or corporations. Our only bottom line is a green and peaceful future."
Independence Day is celebrated on September 15th in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

If you enjoy minty cocktails and desserts, today is the day for you. Celebrate National Creme de Menthe Day.

Chicken Lovers' Day is a time to love chickens or love eating chicken. Your choice!
Have some long, thin pasta in honor of National Linguine Day. In Italian, "linguine" means "little tongues" - who knew?

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Cream-Filled Donut Day, Eat a Hoagie Day

September 14th, 2012, is National Cream-Filled Donut Day and Eat a Hoagie Day. - only two celebrations!

Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, assuming you eat responsibly. Something along the lines of cream of wheat with blueberries. Oh well. Today breakfast is the most decadent meal of the day, because we're celebrating National Cream-Filled Donut Day.

After we come down from the sugar high of breakfast, we will need more sustenance. Good to know today is also Eat a Hoagie Day. Let's include some veggies on that hoagie, okay?

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Fortune Cookie Day, Uncle Sam Day, Snack a Pickle Time, more

September 13th, 2012, is Positive Thinking Day, Fortune Cookie Day, Uncle Sam Day, National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, International Chocolate Day, National Peanut Day, and Snack a Pickle Time.

Just for today, try to keep your thoughts positive, no matter what goes on around you (unless something truly tragic happens). Think you can do it? I know you can, because today is Positive Thinking Day. Here's a little Stuart Smalley for inspiration:

Today is Fortune Cookie Day, so go order your favorite Chinese food and a cookie. Maybe you will learn how to make your dreams come true.

Image: Hetemeel

Uncle Sam Day is always celebrated on September 13th, the birth date of Sam Wilson. Wilson was a meat packer who supplied the U.S. Army during the War of 1812. The meat was packed in barrels labeled "U.S.," standing for "United States," but the soldiers joked that the initials referred to "Uncle Sam" Wilson. And so, a larger-than-life character was born. Just for fun, create your own Uncle Sam "I Want You" poster, with help from Hetemeel.

September 13th is National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, the birth date of Samuel Gee. Gee was a physician and pediatrician who published the first modern clinical description of celiac disease.

Today is International Chocolate Day. Chocolate lovers - you know what to do!

Unless you have peanut allergies, be sure to celebrate National Peanut Day. Peanuts are healthy, delicious, and fun to eat.

Today is Snack a Pickle Time. Cool name. I think I'll go snack a pickle right now, along with some peanuts. And then I'll snack a chocolate bar. Gotta celebrate these holidays!

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Video Games Day, Rubber Day, Chocolate Milk Shake Day

September 12th, 2012, is National Video Games Day, World Rubber Day, and Chocolate Milk Shake Day.

Need an excuse to goof off today? Well, here you go - it's National Video Games Day. Just remember to walk around and stretch occasionally.

The first World Rubber Day was celebrated in Cologne, Germany in 2009. That was the 100th anniversary of the invention of synthetic rubber by chemist Fritz Hofmann.

Today is Chocolate Milk Shake Day. Here's a tip - add a dash of salt to the mix before blending. Fabulous!

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9/11, Patriot Day, National Day of Service and Remembrance, more

September 11th, 2012, is Patriot Day, National Day of Service and Remembrance, Libraries Remember Day, No News Is Good News Day, Enkutatash, Coptic New Year, Make Your Bed Day, and National Hot Cross Bun Day.

Where were you on the horrific morning of September 11th, 2001? I was at home, snuggling with my 19-month-old daughter, watching the news. When a second plane struck the World Trade Center in Manhattan and a tower collapsed, I remember thinking, "This is the world my daughter will have to grow up in."

Patriot Day is a day to remember the events of September 11th, 2001, when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. A plane also crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, diverted by heroic passengers from its intended target, the White House.

Family members who lost loved ones during the terrorist attacks on 9/11 wanted to pay tribute to their loved ones and others who showed great heroism. "By encouraging Americans to participate in service and remembrance activities on the 9/11 anniversary, family members wanted to provide a productive and respectful way to honor those who perished and rekindle the spirit of unity and compassion that swept our nation after 9/11 to help meet the challenges we face today.... September 11 has been designated a National Day of Service and Remembrance." How will you participate?

Libraries Remember Day is a special tribute to 9/11, promoting the spirit of freedom upon which our country was founded. "We believe there can be no more fitting tribute, no more appropriate commemoration of September 11, 2001, than for libraries to simply be there. We invite libraries throughout the United States to join us. We propose that libraries... remain open and conduct business as usual: facilitate communication, foster citizenship, promote understanding, guarantee freedom of access to information, and above all, on that particular day, stand with doors wide open as a remarkable symbol of our freedom." How eloquent. How patriotic.

As far as I can determine, No News Is Good News Day was set for September 11th long before 2001. It's a bittersweet notion now.

Ethiopia celebrates Enkutatash, New Year's Day, on September 11th.

Today is also Coptic New Year.

Today is Make Your Bed Day. It's amazing how much a neatly made bed adds to the overall attractiveness of your bedroom, even if other items are out of place.

No matter what you plan to serve for dinner today, consider adding hot cross buns to the menu. Today is National Hot Cross Bun Day.

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Swap Ideas Day, Sewing Machine Day, TV Dinner Day, more

September 10, 2012, is National Swap Ideas Day, Blame It on the Large Hadron Collider Day, Teachers Day, National Boss/Employee Exchange Day, Sewing Machine Day, National Lacemaking Day, Farmers' Consumer Awareness Day, World Suicide Prevention Day, and TV Dinner Day.

National Swap Ideas Day is a day for sharing. Perhaps you have a great idea that would really help someone. Maybe you could surf for information to help a friend in crisis. Consider brainstorming with a friend for your mutual benefit.

Blame It on the Large Hadron Collider Day was first proposed in 2008 as a way to shift blame. Convenient, right? The Large Hadron Collider probably has your car keys, your missing socks, and your rent money, perhaps sucked into a black hole. The holiday was inspired by the fact that a real Large Hadron Collider was first fired up on this date in 2008, to test the big bang theory in a controlled setting. Exciting and scary. Now, where are those car keys?

China celebrates Teachers Day on September 10th. "A good teacher is like a candle - it consumes itself to light the way for others."

The Monday after Labor Day in the U.S is National Boss/Employee Exchange Day. You may not be able to exchange roles, per se, but surely you can take a few moments to exchange some ideas in a friendly, non-confrontational manner. You might both profit from the experience.

Sewing Machine Day is so popular it's celebrated twice - on September 10th and June 13th.

The Lace Guild sponsors National Lacemaking Day, to display lace and educate the public about how lace is made.

Quincy, Washington, has celebrated Farmers' Consumer Awareness Day since 1981, to help consumers understand where their food comes from. And no, it doesn't just come from the grocery store or the drive-thru.

On World Suicide Prevention Day, learn more about suicide prevention efforts around the globe. Also find out about local agencies who are ready to help in times of crisis.

Are you old enough to remember TV dinners, the kind in foil trays that couldn't be nuked? If so, indulge your nostalgic side and celebrate TV Dinner Day. Some say Swanson, the first company to sell TV dinners, actually has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. My research doesn't bear this out. Gloria Swanson has a star, though.

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Hug Your Hound Day, Wonderful Weirdos Day, Wienerschnitzel Day, more

September 9th, 2012, is National Hug Your Hound Day, National Pet Memorial Day, National Teddy Bear Day, National Grandparents' Day, Wonderful Weirdos Day, Chrysanthemum Day, Bonza Bottler Day, FASD Day, Santa Maria de la Cabeza, Independence Day (North Korea), National Steak au Poivre Day, and Wienerschnitzel Day. 

The second Sunday in September is National Hug Your Hound Day. I'll hug Shimmer, the Official Blog Dog of The Trend Police.

The second Sunday in September is also National Pet Memorial Day, as designated by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries. Take time to remember your departed animal friends.

National Teddy Bear Day honors that classic children's toy everyone loves, named after President Theodore Roosevelt.

The first Sunday after Labor Day is National Grandparents' Day, founded by housewife Marian McQuade. She hoped to promote the well-being of senior citizens in nursing homes and encourage grandchildren to gain wisdom and insight from their grandparents. If you have grandparents, spend time with them!

Austin, Texas celebrates Wonderful Weirdos Day on September 9th, embracing their imaginative and eclectic spirit.

Chrysanthemum Day is celebrated in Japan and China on the 9th day of the 9th month. People collect evening dew from chrysanthemums and wipe it onto their skin, hoping to stay youthful.

Bonza Bottler Day occurs once a month, when the month and day are represented by the same number. 9/9 this time around.

FASD Day is meant to raise awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. The first event was held on 9/9/99, and every year bells are rung at 9:09 a.m. to encourage a healthy nine months of pregnancy.

Santa Maria de la Cabeza, Saint Mary of the Head, is honored on this date every year. She is so named because her relic, her actual head preserved in a reliquary, is used when praying to remove drought.

North Korea observes Independence Day on September 9th, featuring Arirang or Mass Games.

What could possibly be more delectable than a juicy steak crusted with peppercorns? Nothing I know of! Celebrate National Steak au Poivre Day. Bon appetit!

What a wonderful day for carnivorous foodies! In addition to the holiday mentioned above, today is also Wienerschnitzel Day. Wienerschnitzel is a wonderful Austrian and German dish, featuring a boneless veal cutlet breaded and fried. Guten Appetit!

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Nixon Pardon Day, Literacy Day, Date Nut Bread Day, more

September 8th, 2012, is Nixon Pardon Day, International Literacy Day, Independence Day (Macedonia), Independence Day (Andorra), World Physical Therapy Day, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses Day, and National Date Nut Bread Day.

Nixon Pardon Day commemorates the date in 1974 when President Gerald Ford pardoned former President Richard Nixon, in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal.

International Literacy Day, sponsored by the United Nations, focuses on the link between literacy and peace.

Macedonia observes Independence Day on September 8th, celebrating independence from Yugoslavia.

Andorra observes Independence Day on September 8th as well.

World Physical Therapy Day is "an opportunity for physical therapists from all over the world to raise awareness about the crucial contribution their profession makes to keeping people well, mobile and independent."

Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses Day honors dedicated nurses who care for children with cancer and blood disorders. These nurses also offer invaluable support to the families of young patients.

Feeling hungry? Enjoy a delicious and healthy treat on National Date Nut Bread Day. This treat is so yummy, we celebrate it twice - mark your calendar for the same holiday on December 8th.

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Wear Teal Day, Grandma Moses Day, Salami Day, more

September 7th, 2012, is Wear Teal Day, Casual Day, Neither Rain nor Snow Day, Grandma Moses Day, Google Commemoration Day, Independence Day (Brazil), National Acorn Squash Day, and Salami Day.

The first Friday in September is Wear Teal Day, in support of those suffering from ovarian cancer.

In South Africa, the first Friday in September is Casual Day, in support of persons with disabilities.

Neither Rain nor Snow Day honors those who deliver the U.S. mail. The New York City Post Office has the following inscription on their building, adapted from Herodotus: "Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds." Sadly, the technology that allows you to read this blog is contributing to the downfall of the USPS as we know it.

September 7th, the birth date of Grandma Moses, is Grandma Moses Day. She is an inspiration to all because she found her life's purpose at the age of 76.

The search engine known as Google was incorporated on this date in 1998. We all use "google" as a verb these days. Go ahead and google your name in honor of Google Commemoration Day.

Brazil observes Independence Day on September 7th, celebrating independence from Portugal in 1822.

Whip up a batch of acorn squash soup in honor of National Acorn Squash Day. So heartwarming and delicious, especially if the crisp air of fall has reached your neighborhood.

Even if you usually avoid decadent deli meats for health reasons, loosen up a little and enjoy a few slices of delicious salami. September 7th is Salami Day.

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Read a Book Day, Stillbirth and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, more

September 6th, 2012, is Another Look Unlimited Day, Fight Procrastination Day, Read a Book Day, Stillbirth and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, Independence Day (Swaziland), and National Coffee Ice Cream Day.

Another Look Unlimited Day is your chance to look through things you're about to throw away, to see if perhaps you could repurpose or donate those items. Conversely, look through things you plan to keep, to see if you could streamline your life by giving some things away or donating them. You get the idea.

Yesterday was Be Late for Something Day. If you chose to be really late and celebrate that holiday today, here's another holiday to chastise you. Today, conveniently enough, is Fight Procrastination Day.

In honor of Read a Book Day, grab your e-book reader or an actual paper-and-glue book, find a place to relax, and simply read. Read for pleasure, not for school or business. Just read.

Stillbirth and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is a time to remember babies who missed their chance at life, as a result of stillbirth, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, other pregnancy complications, or SIDS. If you have suffered such a loss, be kind to yourself today and every day.

Swaziland celebrates Independence Day on September 6th.

If you enjoy a good bowl of ice cream and a jolt of caffeine, today is the day to combine the two. Celebrate National Coffee Ice Cream Day.

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Be Late for Something Day, Cheese Pizza Day, more

September 5th, 2012, is Be Late for Something Day, Teachers' Day (India), and National Cheese Pizza Day.

Today is Be Late for Something Day. Don't risk being fired or getting into any other trouble, just for the sake of someone's crazy idea for a holiday! Maybe you could be late to bed tonight, or late to wash the dishes.

India celebrates Teachers' Day on September 5th, the birth date of Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, a well-known educator and philosopher.

What's your favorite combination of pizza toppings? At the moment I'm partial to a Mediterranean assemblage of feta, chicken and spinach, but classic pepperoni is yummy too. But the heart of virtually all pizza is a simple sauce and cheese topping. Enjoy your favorite today in honor of National Cheese Pizza Day.

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Newspaper Carrier Day, Eat an Extra Dessert Day, Macadamia Nut Day, more

September 4th, 2012, is Newspaper Carrier Day, National Wildlife Day, Eat an Extra Dessert Day, and National Macadamia Nut Day.

Newspaper Carrier Day celebrates the dedicated individuals who deliver newspapers on foot, by bicycle, or by truck. Sadly, their days seem numbered, as more of us read our news online.

Go to the zoo, donate to your favorite animal-related charity, or provide treats to the animals living in your own back yard. Celebrate National Wildlife Day.

WARNING - Don't read this paragraph if you're on a diet. I'm serious! Okay, if you're still reading, perhaps you'll be glad to know today is Eat an Extra Dessert Day.

If you've decided to participate in the holiday mentioned above, might as well go all the way and include high-fat macadamia nuts. Happy National Macadamia Nut Day.

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