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March 31st 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Cesar Chavez Day (United States) Christian feast day Abdas of Susa Acathius of Melitene (Eastern Orthodox Church) Anesius and companions Benjamin Balbina John Donne (Anglican Communion, Lutheran) March 31 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Day of Genocide of Azerbaijanis (Azerbaijan) Freedom Day (Malta) International Transgender Day of Visibility King Nangklao Memorial Day (Thailand) Thomas Mundy Peterson Day (New Jersey, United States) Transfer Day (US Virgin Islands) World Backup Day Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) National Après Day Anesthesia Tech Day Dance Marathon Day Eiffel Tower Day International Hug a Medievalist Day National Clams on the Half Shell Day Crayola Crayon Day - 1 National Crayon Day - 2 National Farm Workers Day National Prom Day National She's Funny That Way Day - 1 She’s Funny That Way Day - 2 National Tater Day Terri's Day National Cream Cheese Frosting Day Wear A Hat Day Liza Koshy’s Birthday Kids Diana Show’s Birthday Ewan McGregor’s Birthday Johann Sebastian Bach’s Birthday Cesar Chavez’s Birthday Fun Observances Bunsen Burner Day Bunsen Burner Day on March 31 celebrates the inventor of the Bunsen Burner, German chemist Robert Wilhelm Eberhard von Bunsen. The most important contribution of Robert Bunsen, one that changed chemistry labs all over the world, was the Bunsen Burner. Revolutionized Chemistry A staple in all chemistry labs, the Bunsen Burner is a device that uses a flammable gas to produce a hot flame. The Bunsen Burner was the precursor to the gas stove many people used in their homes today. Photochemistry Born on March 31, 1811, Robert Bunsen is thought to be a trailblazer in the field of photochemistry. Photochemistry is a specialized branch of chemistry that looks at the chemical effects of light. He was also well-known for his work on the chemistry of arsenic, a chemical element that is used for a variety of purposes including preserving wood, but is also toxic to human beings and animals in larger quantities. How to Celebrate? Honor your chemistry teachers on this day. Thank them for all the knowledge they have imparted you. Introduce young adults and children in your life to the joys of chemistry. Learn more about the life of Robert Bunsen. Did You Know… …that Robert Bunsen also discovered cesium and rubidium with Gustav Kirchhoff? Cesium is one of 5 elements that are liquid at room temperature. *** I was teaching a life-skills class to my high school students one day, and we were discussing the various terms one might encounter in a restaurant. I asked, "What does the phrase 'à la carte' mean?" "It means," a student said, "you're in the wrong restaurant." *** When employees of the restaurant where I work attended a fire-safety seminar, we watched a fire official demonstrate the proper way to operate an extinguisher. "Pull the pin like a hand grenade," he explained, "then depress the trigger to release the foam." Later, an employee was selected to extinguish a controlled fire in the parking lot. In her nervousness, she forgot to pull the pin. Our instructor hinted, "Like a hand grenade, remember?" In a burst of confidence, she pulled the pin—and hurled the extinguisher at the blaze. *** When I bought my new Lexus Sport Coupe, my two sons asked me who would inherit it if I met my demise. I pondered the question, then told them if I passed away on an even day, the son born on an even day would get it. If it happened on an odd day, the one born on the odd day would get it. A few weekends later, while river rafting with one of my sons, I was tossed out of the boat. As I floated in the rapids, I heard my son yelling, "It's the wrong day!" *** Going over our weekly training schedule one morning at our small Army garrison, we noticed that our annual trip to the rifle range had been canceled for the second time, but that our semi–annual physical-fitness test was still on as planned. "Does it bother anyone else," one soldier asked, "that the Army doesn't seem concerned with how well we can shoot, yet is extremely interested in how fast we can run?" *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

March 30th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast day: Blessed Amadeus IX, Duke of Savoy Blessed Maria Restituta Kafka John Climacus Mamertinus of Auxerre Quirinus of Neuss Thomas Son Chasuhn, Marie-Nicolas-Antoine Daveluy (part of The Korean Martyrs) Tola of Clonard March 30 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Land Day (Palestine) National Doctors' Day (United States) Spiritual Baptist/Shouter Liberation Day (Trinidad and Tobago) School Day of Non-violence and Peace (Spain) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Grass is Always Browner on the Other Side of the Fence Day National Fitness Recovery Day National Folding Laundry Day National I Am In Control Day National Julia Day National Pencil Day National Victoria Day National Virtual Vacation Day National Wendy Day Ram Navami Day - 1 Ram Navami - 2 Torrents Day Turkey Neck Soup Day World Bipolar Day World Tb-303 Appreciation day Vincent van Gogh’s Birthday Eric Clapton’s Birthday NF’s Birthday Celine Dion’s Birthday Fun Observances Take a Walk in the Park Day Commune with nature and enjoy the bounties it has to offer on Take a Walk in the Park Day. Celebrated annually on March 30, the unofficial holiday encourages people to get active and enjoy the physical and mental benefits that come from walking in nature. Better Health Studies have shown that walking for about 30 minutes a day can have huge health benefits. Walking can not only help burn calories and reduce weight, but can also lower the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancers. It can also increase heart activity and lower blood pressure. Reduces Stress and Boosts Mood Walking in nature - away from the dust and pollution of streets and cars - can boost moods and reduce stress. Studies have shown that people who hike or walk in green areas tend to be happier than those who don't. Take a Walk in the Park Day is also sometimes known as National Take a Walk in the Park Day in the United States. How to Celebrate? This one's easy. Wear your finest walking shoes, leave your phone behind and breathe in the fresh air as you walk around your local park. Recruit a good friend or a fun family member to accompany you on your walk. What better way to enjoy nature and maintain your health than to share it with a loved one? Did You Know... ...that the Northeast Greenland National Park in Greenland is the world's largest national park? Also the world's northern-most park, it covers around 375,000 square miles (972,000 square kilometers) of land. *** Living in a dry county was the bane of my friend Robert's existence. He was complaining to me one day about having to make a 60-mile round trip to get his favorite brand of bourbon. "I buy it by the case," he said. "Are you addicted to that stuff?" I asked. Robert thought for a second. "I don't know. I've never run out." *** Finishing up our work at a trade show in San Diego, my co-worker Maureen and I decided to go sightseeing across the border in Tijuana, Mexico. While there, we went shopping and bought a few pieces of clay kitchenware. As we crossed back into the United States, a customs official asked if we had anything of value to report. "Not really," Maureen replied, digging in her bag for the bean crock she had purchased. Everyone around us froze as she continued, "I only bought a little pot." *** My friend Ann and I were eating at a Chinese restaurant. When an elderly waiter set chopsticks at our places, Ann made a point of reaching into her purse and pulling out her own pair. "As an environmentalist," she declared, "I do not approve of destroying bamboo forests for throwaway utensils." The waiter inspected her chopsticks. "Very beautiful," he said politely. "Ivory." *** A group of Alaskan housewives had gotten together for morning coffee and, since several of us were pregnant, the talk drifted to babies and doctors. One of the women announced that she was now going to a woman doctor. "At least," she said, "I'll be able to depend on my doctor being around during moose season!" *** *** *** (I guess that makes me a certified fool😉) *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** Update The Boss Bear: Meet the Most Badass Bear in Banff *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

Orange Tortoise Spider

March 29th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast day: Armogastes Berthold of Calabria Gwynllyw Jonas and Barachisius March 29 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Boganda Day (Central African Republic) Commemoration of the 1947 Rebellion (Madagascar) National Vietnam War Veterans Day (United States) Day of the Young Combatant (Chile) Youth Day (Taiwan) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Manatee Appreciation Day National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day Knights Of Columbus Founder's Day - 1 Knights of Columbus Founders Day - 2 Little Red Wagon Day Mermaid Day National Governance Professionals Day National Lemon Chiffon Cake Day Niagara Falls Runs Dry Day Payday It Forward Texas Loves the Children Day Vietnam Veterans Day Whole Grain Sampling Day World Piano Day Sulli’s Birthday Mark Thomas’s Birthday Irene’s Birthday Jack Wright’s Birthday CJ So Cool’s Birthday Fun Observances Smoke and Mirrors Day Celebrate the magic on Smoke and Mirrors Day. Also sometimes known as Festival of Smoke and Mirrors Day, this unofficial holiday is celebrated annually on March 29. Smoke and mirrors is an English language phrase that is used to describe things and actions that are deceptive, manipulative, or lack complete explanation. Act of Illusion Usually associated with illusionists and magicians, it is thought that the phrase originated from the classic act of illusion where a magician makes objects or people appear or disappear by using smokes and mirrors as a distraction. Because of this, the phrase is often used to refer to actions that distract from the reality or cover up the truth. Things That Do Not Exist In computing, the term smoke and mirrors is often used to refer to programs that seem to exist, but in reality do not. Mirror Magic Magic as a performance art has been used to entertain people around the world since ancient times. In smoke and mirror magic tricks, magicians create optical illusions by diverting a spectator's attention away from the actions that create the "magic". Mirrors are also often used to create illusions by manipulating light and using the properties of reflection and refraction. Some of the popular magic tricks using mirrors include the Sphinx and the Vampire. In both tricks, mirrors are used to hide the object, usually the head of a person. How to Celebrate? Learn some magic tricks and entertain your friends and colleagues. Preferably try to use smoke and mirrors in your tricks. Spend some time learning about how to achieve illusions using mirrors. Did You Know... ...that the earliest mirrors used by humans were bodies of dark, still water? *** While on vacation, my wife and I stopped for lunch at a diner. We sat at the counter, right next to the grill. The cook was a young man who was very busy flipping pancakes. Every so often, he would stop and hit the grill with the handle of the spatula. Finally I asked him facetiously, "Does that improve the taste of the pancakes?" "No," he replied. "That keeps the handle from falling off." *** Searching in my library for two books by communications expert Deborah Tannen turned into an Abbott and Costello routine. "What's the first book?" the librarian asked. "That's Not What I Meant," I said. "Well, what did you mean?" "That's the title of the book," I explained. "Okay." She looked at me a little skeptically. "And the other book?" "You Just Don't Understand." "Excuse me?" I got both books. Eventually. *** Coincidences were flying when a man was arrested and charged with stealing a bird feeder from Cornell University's ornithology laboratory. According to the Associated Press, police charged James Buzzard, 44, who lives on Cardinal Drive in Ithaca, N.Y., with stealing the feeder from the lab on Sapsucker Woods Road. *** A friend living in an isolated Montana mining town suspected that she wasn't getting the best dental care. Her first trip to a competent dentist in Butte confirmed her suspicions. After a thorough examination the dentist asked but one question: "Been doing your own work?" *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

Caught This One Peeking Out Of Our Planter

March 28th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast day: Priscus Pope Sixtus III March 28 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Serfs Emancipation Day (Tibet) Teachers' Day (Czech Republic and Slovakia) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Respect Your Cat Day American Diabetes Alert Day Barnum & Bailey Day Eat an Eskimo Pie Day National Amber Day National Black Forest Cake Day National Hot Tub Day National Ram Day National Triglycerides Day National Weed Appreciation Day Virtual Advocacy Day Vince Vaughn’s Birthday Reba McEntire’s Birthday Kate Gosselin’s Birthday Jackson Wang’s Birthday Caleb Coffee’s Birthday Lady Gaga’s Birthday Fun Observances Something on a Stick Day March 28 is Something on a Stick Day. It is a day to have fun with your food and to celebrate delicious and easy-to-eat dishes on a stick. In many cultures, snacks and road-side food are served on a stick or a skewer. Savory or Sweet These snacks are usually chunks of vegetables or meat that are grilled, baked, or fried. Food on a stick can be savory or sweet and can be served hot or cold. Meat on a Stick Kebabs (kebap or kebob) are some of the most well-known snacks that are cooked and or served on sticks. Usually made of lamb meat, though pork, beef, and chicken can also be used to make the dish, kebabs are eaten around the world as a snack or as a main dish. Easy to Handle Another favorite food on a stick, typically found at fairs and food markets is a corn dog - a sausage that is dipped in a batter and fried. Sweet snacks that are often served on a stick include caramel apples, ice pops, and cotton candy. How to Celebrate? Throw an everything-on-a-stick-party and serve your guests food and drinks (think popsicles) on a stick. Rethink what you eat daily as dishes on a stick. What about making pancakes on a stick or pies on a stick? Prefer to be healthy? Eat fruit on a stick. Did You Know... ...that the ancient Greeks used sticks or skewers to cook their meat? *** Several months ago, my daughter and I had similar virus symptoms. She decided to consult a doctor so as not to lose any more time from her job. “I’ll see the doctor,” she said, “and then tell you what’s wrong with us.” The next day she called to say, “Guess what, Mom. We’re pregnant!” *** I was editing classified ads for a small-town newspaper when a man called to place an ad. "It should read," he said, "‘Free to good home. Golden retriever. Will eat anything, loves children.’" *** Once while riding the bus to work, I noticed a man at a stop enjoying a cup of coffee. As we approached the stop, he finished drinking and set the cup on the ground. This negligence surprised me, since it seemed to be a good ceramic cup. Days later I saw the same man again drinking his coffee at the bus stop. Once again, he placed the cup on the grass before boarding. When the bus pulled away, I looked back in time to see a dog carefully carrying the cup in his mouth as he headed for home. *** The board of education in a nearby town sold off a building that had been a one-room schoolhouse. The buyer converted it to a tavern. One day an elderly man was walking by the place with his grandson and pointed to the building. "That's where I went to school when I was your age." "Really," said the boy. "Who was your bartender back then?" *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

This adhorrible spider is called bunny harvestman. What would you nickname it? This Tiny Arachnid With a Black Bunny Head Is Totally Real, We Kid You Not : ScienceAlert Little Spider Footprints Across My Bathroom Window

March 27th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast day: Alexander, a Pannonian soldier, martyred in 3rd century. Amador of Portugal Augusta of Treviso Charles Henry Brent (Episcopal Church (USA)) Gelasius, Archbishop of Armagh John of Egypt Philetus Romulus of Nîmes, a Benedictine abbot, martyred c. 730. Rupert of Salzburg Zanitas and Lazarus of Persia March 27 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Armed Forces Day (Myanmar) Day of the Union of Bessarabia with Romania (Romania) World Theatre Day (International) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Celebrate Exchange Day International Scribble Day International Whiskey Day National Acoustic Soul Day National Joe Day National Medical Science Liaison Awareness and Appreciation Day Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day Seward’s Day Viagra Day Mariah Carey’s Birthday Vicki Gunvalson’s Birthday Lalisa Manoban’s Birthday KennaDee Kay Haddock’s Birthday Kendra Scott’s Birthday Brenda Song’s Birthday Quentin Tarantino’s Birthday Fun Observances Spanish Paella Day March 27 is Spanish Paella Day. Celebrate this unofficial holiday by cooking this rice and saffron dish. Paella is a quintessentially Spanish rice dish that is thought to have originated in the Valencia region of Spain. Rice and Saffron The dish is typically made of rice, different kinds of beans, and meat. It is flavored with saffron, paprika, and other spices and herbs. Different Types At least two different versions of the dish exist. Seafood paella replaces the beans and the meat, which is usually chicken, rabbit, or snails, with seafood. Common seafood additions to the seafood paella are lobster, mussels, and shrimp. Mixed paella, on the other hand, includes both meat and seafood. Special Pan Paella is usually cooked over an open fire in a large shallow steel pan with two handles, also called paella. Tradition has it that diners must eat directly out of the pan. How to Celebrate? With some paella, of course! Whip up a batch at home or visit your local Spanish restaurant to enjoy this delicious rice dish. If you have always wanted to visit Spain, what better excuse to book your next vacation to the country and sample some local paella? Did You Know… …that the paella comes from the Latin word patella, meaning pan? *** Q. There's a one-story house where everything inside is pink: pink walls, pink doors, pink floors, pink ceilings, pink windows, pink curtains, pink chairs, and pink tables. What color are the stairs? A. There are none—it's a one-story house! *** Son: What's the difference between love and marriage? Father: Love is blind. Marriage is an eye opener. *** A man boards a plane and is seated next to an Air Marshall and his ‘sniffing dog’. Soon, the plane takes off and the Marshall says, “Sniffer, search.” The dog walks along the aisle, and stops next to a woman. He then returns to his seat and puts a paw on the Marshall’s arm. “Good boy,” says the Marshall. “What happened?” asks the man. “That woman is in possession of marijuana. We’ll arrest her when we land.” Once again, Sniffer searches the aisles. He stops beside a man, then returns to his seat, and places two paws on the Marshall’s arm. “That man is carrying cocaine,” the Marshall explains. The dog walks up the aisle again, then races back, jumps into his seat, and poops all over it. “What’s going on?!” demands the man. The Marshall nervously replies, “He just found a bomb!” *** My husband is a big Atlanta Braves fan. When I saw an ad on television for a baseball autographed by one of his favorite players that cost $42, I rushed out and bought it for him as a gift. That evening as we were watching television, the same commercial came on. Slyly I glanced over at my husband just as he commented, "What kind of idiot would pay $42 for a baseball?" *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

Gary Might Not Be A Conventional IT Specialist But By God He Gets Results

March 26th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast days: Castulus Emmanuel and companions Felicitas Harriet Monsell (Church of England) Larissa Ludger Richard Allen (Episcopal Church (USA)) March 26 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Independence Day and National Day (Bangladesh), celebrates the declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971. Martyr's Day or Day of Democracy (Mali) Prince Kūhiō Day (Hawaii, United States) Purple Day (Canada and United States) Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel (Eastern Christianity) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) National Spinach Day Black Marriage Day British Summer Time Begins Good Hair Day Live Long and Prosper Day National Day of Life, Peace and Justice National Landon Day National Nougat Day National Wayne Day Nike Air Max Day Solitude Day Wear A Hat Day National Neighbor Day Steven Tyler’s Birthday Kenny Chesney’s Birthday Nancy Pelosi’s Birthday Jeff Magid’s Birthday Gavin Magnus’s Birthday Diana Ross’s Birthday Danielle Bregoli’s Birthday Brittany Banks’s Birthday Fun Observances Make Up Your Own Holiday Day March 26 is Make Up Your Own Holiday Day. It is a day to think up of a thing, person, animal, phrase, or food and create a holiday to celebrate it. The unofficial holiday honors all made-up holidays past, present, and future and encourages people to come up with creative, quirky, offbeat, important, and significant things to celebrate, observe, and commemorate. The holiday is also known as National Make up Your Own Holiday Day in the United States. Special Days A holiday is a special day during the year, when normal, day-to-day activities such as going to school or work or opening up businesses are temporarily interrupted. On these days, other activities such as visiting places of worship, preparing special meals, and decorating homes and places of businesses are encouraged. Unofficial and Official Holidays can be official or unofficial. Official holidays usually mean that they are sanctioned by the government. Everyone who observes the holiday usually gets the day off from work. Official holidays can be religious, like Christmas, Diwali, Yom Kippur, or Eid al-Fitr; or they can be national, like the country's independence or constitution day. Other official holidays, like New Year's Day or Labor Day, are secular holidays and can be celebrated by people of all religious faiths. Fun and Serious Holidays Unofficial holidays, on the other hand, are not sanctioned by the government. This means that people usually do not get a day off, nor do businesses or government offices close to celebrate or observe the holiday. Unofficial holidays can include national and global awareness holidays such as UN days, and fun holidays that celebrate trivial, unimportant, and fun things like food, movies, books, and television series. How to Celebrate? Make up your own holiday, of course! Create a holiday, spread the word and celebrate it when the day comes. If you want to make it official, you may have to talk to your local representative - only an official act of the legislature or government can make a holiday a national day. Did You Know... ...that the holiday comes from the Old English word haligdæg, meaning holy day? *** "Daddy," said my 11-year-old daughter, "I think I want to join the Army." "Baby," I answered, "I think the Air Force would be a better option for you." "But I don't want to be a pilot." "You don't have to be a pilot," I told her. "There are other jobs in the Air Force." Her answer: "I don't want to be a flight attendant either." *** Think it's easy being a tour guide? VisitBritain, a travel bureau, has compiled these tourist questions. "Is Wales closed during the winter?" "Why did they build Windsor Castle on the flight path of Heathrow?" "Who feeds the Loch Ness monster?" "Are there any Sheena Easton museums in Glasgow?" *** 10 Quotes About Springtime "Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party'"" --Robin Williams "The weather here is gorgeous. It's mild and feels like it's in the eighties. The hot dog vendors got confused because of the weather and thought it was spring, so they accidentally changed the hot dog water in their carts." --David Letterman "In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt." --Margaret Atwood "If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome." -- Josh Billings "Flowers are the sweetest things God ever made and forgot to put a soul into." -- Henry Ward Beecher "Gardens and flowers have a way of bringing people together, drawing them from their homes." -- Clare Ansberry "The earth laughs in flowers." -- e e cummings "At my age flowers scare me." -- George Burns "If the English language made any sense, lackadaisical would have something to do with a shortage of flowers." -- Doug Larsen "A cynic is a man who, when he smells flowers, looks around for a coffin." -- H. L Mencken *** When I arrived at school for my daughter's parent-teacher conference, the teacher seemed a bit flustered, especially when she started telling me that my little girl didn't always pay attention in class and was sometimes a little flighty. "For example, she'll do the wrong page in the workbook," the teacher explained, "and I've even found her sitting at the wrong desk." "I don't understand," I replied defensively. "Where could she have gotten that?" The teacher went on to reassure me that my daughter was still doing fine in school and was sweet and likable. Finally, after a pause, she added, "By the way, Mrs. Gulbrandsen, our appointment was tomorrow." *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

(I don't wanna hear about six legs only, use your imagination) I Realize This Is Unconventional, But Please Give It A Chance. Introducing: The Central American Puppy Spider!

March 25th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Anniversary of the Arengo and the Feast of the Militants (San Marino) Christian feast days: March 25 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Christian Saints' days Ælfwold II of Sherborne Barontius and Desiderius Blessed Marie-Alphonsine Danil Ghattas Omelyan Kovch (Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church) Dismas, the "Good Thief" Humbert of Maroilles Quirinus of Tegernsee Commemoration Day for the Victims of Communist Genocide (Latvia) Cultural Workers Day (Russia) Empress Menen's Birthday (Rastafari) EU Talent Day (European Union) Freedom Day (Belarus) Independence Day, celebrates the start of Greek War of Independence from the Ottoman Empire, in 1821. (Greece) International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (international) International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members (United Nations General Assembly) International Day of the Unborn Child (international) Maryland Day (Maryland, United States) Medal of Honor Day (United States) Mother's Day (Slovenia) New Year's Day (Lady Day) in England, Wales, Ireland, and some of the future United States and Canada from 1155 through 1751, until the Calendar (New Style) Act 1750 moved it to 1 January (and adopted the Gregorian calendar. (The year 1751 began on 25 March; the year 1752 began on 1 January.) NZ Army Day Quarter day (first of four) in Ireland and England. Struggle for Human Rights Day (Slovakia) Tolkien Reading Day Vårfrudagen or Våffeldagen, "Waffle Day" (Sweden, Norway & Denmark) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Bed-in for Peace Day Earth Hour Feast of the Annunciation National Dante Day National Guadalupe Day National Lobster Newburg Day National Michelle Shafer Half-Moon Cookie Day National OmazingYou Day Walk in the Sand Day World Retrospective Day Pecan Day Sha'Carri Richardson’s Birthday Sarah Jessica Parker’s Birthday Big Sean’s Birthday Elton John’s Birthday Aretha Franklin’s Birthday Fun Observances ( 2 ) Waffle Day Waffles have, as far as we know, three holidays in the year dedicated to them – On March 11, March 25, and August 24. This Waffle Day originated in Sweden. Swedish Mistake Known as Våffeldagen, legend has it that the holiday was mistakenly created due to a mispronunciation of Vårfrudagen. Vårfrudagen or Our Lady’s Day is a Christian holiday also known as Annunciation. Today, many countries around the world celebrate March 25 as Waffle Day. Originated in Europe Waffles are dough or batter cooked between two hot plates, usually made of iron. The dish is thought to have originated in Europe and is now enjoyed all around the world for breakfast, as a snack, or as dessert. Waffle Iron Patent Awarded In the United States, Waffle Day is celebrated on August 24. The unofficial holiday commemorates the day in 1869 when the first waffle iron was patented. The healthier version, Oatmeal Nut Waffle Day, is celebrated on March 11. How to Celebrate? With waffles! Make them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Experiment with toppings – make savory waffles instead of sweet waffles. Try the American soul food version of fried chicken and waffles. Have a waffle party and have your family and friends bring their most innovative waffle dish. Did You Know... ...that Belgian Waffles were created and introduced to the world for the first time in the United States? Maurice Vermersch introduced them at the 1964 New York World's Fair as the Bel-Gem Waffle. ~~~~~~~ Tolkien Reading Day March 25 is Tolkien Reading Day. Celebrate the unofficial holiday by reading some of your favorite Tolkien books. Created in 2003 by the Tolkien Society, the unofficial holiday encourages people to read all of English author, John Ronald Reuel Tolkien’s (J.R.R Tolkien) works. Lord of the Rings Thought to be one of the world’s most read fantasy writers, J.R.R. Tolkien is best known for his Lord of the Rings (LOTR) trilogy. A sequel to Tolkien's other popular novel, The Hobbit, the LOTR trilogy is set in a fantasy land called the Middle-earth. Middle-earth is a continent on the fictional world called Arda. The One Ring The trilogy gets its name from the One Ring that the main villain in the books, Dark Lord Sauron, created to rule over the other Rings of Power. These rings - 3 for the Elves, 7 for Dwarves and 9 for Men - were created by Sauron or the elves under Sauron's guidance. Downfall of the Villain March 25 was chosen as the date for Tolkien Reading Day because it coincides with the date of the downfall of Sauron and Barad-dûr in the Lord of the Rings. Barad-dûr is the fictional tower from which Sauron rules Mordor. In the books, this happens on March 25, 3019 when the Ring falls into the Cracks of Doom. How to Celebrate? Read any of J.R.R. Tolkien's work. Attend public readings of his works organized by your local Tolkien fan organizations. Host a marathon viewing of the movies based on the books. Did You Know... ...that Tolkien was known to speak around 20 languages? *** Fact: We salesmen believe we can sell anything. But my confidence was put to the test recently in a hotel lobby. When the doors to the elevator opened, it was packed with women. I walked in, flashed a broad grin, and said, "Looks like tonight is my lucky night." "Don't count on it," said a voice in the back. "We're nuns." *** A guy suffering from a miserable cold begs his doctor for relief. The doctor prescribes pills. But after a week, the guy's still sick. So the doctor gives him a shot. But that doesn't help his condition either. "Okay, this is what I want you to do," says the doctor on the third visit. "Go home and take a hot bath. Then throw open all the windows and stand in the draft." "I'll get pneumonia!" protests the patient. "I know. That I can cure." *** A pirate walks into a bar with a paper towel on his head. The bartender says, "What's with the paper towel?" The pirate says, "Arrr! I've got a Bounty on me head!" *** Soon after being transferred to a new duty station, my Marine husband called home one evening to tell me he would be late. "Dirty magazines were discovered in the platoon quarters," he said, "and the whole squad is being disciplined." I launched into a tirade, arguing that Marines should not be penalized for something so trivial. My husband interrupted. "Honey, when I said ‘dirty magazines,’ I meant the clips from their rifles hadn’t been cleaned." *** Having fought the battle of the bulge most of my life, I found the battle getting even harder as I approached middle age. One evening, after trying on slacks that were too tight, I said to my husband, "I'll be so glad when we become grandparents. After all, who cares if grandmothers are fat?" His prompt reply: "Grandfathers." *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

Herman The Office Spider Likes His Name Plate

March 24th 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast day: Catherine of Vadstena Hildelith of Barking Mac Cairthinn of Clogher Óscar Romero (Catholic Church, Anglican Communion, Lutheranism) Paul Couturier (Church of England) Walter Hilton (Church of England) March 24 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Day of Remembrance for Truth and Justice (Argentina) International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims National Tree Planting Day (Uganda) Student Day (Scientology) World Tuberculosis Day (International) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Independent Accommodations Day Commonwealth Covenant Day Flatmates Day International Day For Achievers National Adverse Drug Event Awareness Day National Cheesesteak Day National Cocktail Day National Each Person is A Person of Worth Day National Stephanie Day The Undertaker’s Birthday Peyton Manning’s Birthday Fun Observances Chocolate Covered Raisins Day Celebrate the almost healthy, chewy, and chocolatey snack on March 24 or Chocolate Covered Raisin Day. Made by coating raisins with milk, dark, or white chocolate, chocolate covered raisins are a popular movie theater snack in the United States. Dried Grapes Raisins are dried grapes and are used in many parts of the world for cooking, baking, and as a snack. Usually sun dried, raisins have a high amount of sugar - almost 75% of their weight is sugar. They contain antioxidants, are high in fiber, and have a low glycemic index. They are also known to have blood pressure reducing properties. Can Be Healthy Chocolate is considered to be a health food, especially when it is not consumed with high amounts of sugar. Eaten in its purest form or with little sugar, chocolate can help reduce risks of stroke, heart disease, and blood pressure. It can also help boost mood and improve eyesight. Chocolate covered raisins are sometimes called Raisinets, after a popular brand of chocolate covered raisins. Chocolate Covered Holidays Bittersweet Chocolate With Almonds Day and Chocolate Covered Anything Day are other holidays that celebrate chocolate covered snacks and food during the year. How to Celebrate? Make your own chocolate covered raisins. Share the snack with family and friends. Did You Know… …that the scientific name for the cacao tree, theobroma cacao, means the food of deities? *** My high-school basketball team was scheduled to play in the district tournament, and when we got there we were all excited to find our pictures and our stats published in the glossy program. My friend Brian Bird, a senior who was having a great season, eagerly searched for his name. But then he threw the program down in disgust, and I figured that there must be some error in his entry. Sure enough, his name appeared as "Bird, Brain." *** Desperate for a child, a couple asked their priest to pray for them. "I'm going on sabbatical to Rome," he replied. "I'll light a candle in St. Peter's for you." When the priest returned three years later, he found the wife pregnant, tending two sets of twins. Elated, the priest asked to speak to her husband and congratulate him. "He's gone to Rome," came the harried reply, "to blow out that candle." *** Today in the markets, helium was up; feathers were down. Paper was stationary. Elevators rose, while escalators continued their slow decline. Mining equipment hit rock bottom. The market for raisins dried up. Coca-Cola fizzled. Balloon prices were inflated. And Scott Tissue reached a new bottom. *** Two convicts are working on a chain gang. "I heard the warden's daughter up and married a guy down on cellblock D," the first con says to the other. "The warden's mighty upset about it too." "Why?" asks the second prisoner. "Because she married a con?" "No. Because they eloped." *** The family was viewing old slides and one flashed on the screen that caught everyone's attention. My father, wearing his favorite golf shirt, was holding me at the tender age of three weeks. The look on his face told all. "There's my prize possession," my father said. Touched, I smiled at him as he continued, "I wonder whatever happened to that golf shirt?" *** *** *** The Wasps That Built This Nest Knew What They Were Doing *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** An homage to the " Fifth Element" *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

I found a bunch of great spider pics. I hope you enjoy or cringe, your choice. I look forward to any comments, positive or negative. Her Majesty Queen Chungus Of The Great Trees. Golden Huntsmen (Beregama Aurea), One Of Australia's Biggest Species

Since you asked? Bindi Irwin May 5, 2019 · Okay fam ... spot HarrietI have officially decided that I can never do another red carpet without a tarantula... #SteveIrwinGalaDinner

Hooroo,

March 23rd 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Christian feast day: Gregory the Illuminator (Episcopal Church) Gwinear Joseph Oriol Ottone Frangipane Rafqa Pietra Choboq Ar-Rayès (Maronite Church) Turibius of Mogrovejo Victorian, Frumentius and Companions March 23 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Day of Hungarian-Polish Friendship (Hungary and Poland) Day of the Sea (Bolivia) Family Day (South Africa) Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Day (Azerbaijan) Pakistan Day (Pakistan) Promised Messiah Day (Ahmadiyya) World Meteorological Day Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Atheist Day Chips and Dip Day - 1 National Chip and Dip Day - 2 Cuddly Kitten Day Melba Toast Day National Alice Day National Chia Day National Jacob Day National Tamale Day OK Day Otago Anniversary Day Ramadan Begins Ravenclaw Pride Day South African Liberation Day World Math Day Renjun’s Birthday Quando Rondo’s Birthday KarinaOMG’s Birthday Kyrie Irving’s Birthday Joan Crawford’s Birthday Fun Observances ( 2 ) Puppy Day March 23 is Puppy Day, a day reserved for recognizing the joy and love that puppies bring to our lives. First celebrated in 2006, the unofficial holiday, which is also known as National Puppy Day in the United States, was created by Coleen Paige, an animal behaviorist. The day calls for people to adopt puppies and to work towards putting an end to puppy farms and mills. Inhumane Treatment Puppy mills are places where dogs are kept and bred for the sole purpose of selling them. Many mills operate under inhumane conditions and treat dogs only as breeding machines. Old or sick dogs, and those that are unable to give birth to puppies are often left loose on the streets to fend themselves or euthanized. Puppy Day shines a light on these conditions and encourages people to adopt their canine family members. By doing so, it reduces the financial incentives that keep puppy mills running. Celebrated Many Times a Year The deep bond between humans and their furry best friends is celebrated several times in a year. Unofficial annual holidays that are dedicated to the canines in our families include Dog Appreciation Day, Take Your Dog to Work Day, Work Like a Dog Day, and Hug Your Hound Day. How to Celebrate? If you already have puppies, give them an extra hug on this day and show them how much you love them. If you are thinking of adding one to your family, don’t dilly dally. Go to your nearest adoption center and adopt a puppy today. Don’t have a puppy or prefer to have kittens around? Don’t despair, you can spoil and pamper your furry feline on Hug Your Cat Day. Did You Know… ...that a dog’s nose print is as unique as a human’s fingerprint? ~~~~~~~ Near Miss Day March 23 is Near Miss Day, an annual reminder of the day in 1989 when an asteroid nearly collided with the Earth. The 300-meter wide asteroid called 4581 Asclepius flew past the Earth by a distance of about 450,000 miles (684,000 kms) and almost missed striking it by 6 hours. Experts estimate that if the asteroid had hit the Earth, the resulting collision would have released energy equal to about 1000 atom bombs! Discovered Days Later It is a good thing then that the asteroid wasn't discovered until March 31, 9 days after it had flown by the Earth. Named after the Greek god of medicine, Asclepius, was discovered by American astronomers Henry E. Holt and Norman G. Thomas. Nothing to Worry About Since 1989, several meteoroids and asteroids have buzzed past the Earth from a safe distance. Scientists and astronomers measure the probability of a celestial object colliding with the Earth on two different scales - the Torino Scale and the Palermo Technical Impact Hazard Scale. According to NASA, there are very few near-Earth objects that have the capacity to hit the Earth and create havoc in the near future. Space Rocks Asteroids are space rocks that are a by-product of the formation of the Solar System. Found mostly in the asteroid belt – the region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, these celestial objects contain minerals highly coveted by humans. How to Celebrate? This one's easy. Celebrate the day by celebrating life and all the second chances you have ever been given. Learn more about asteroids and other near-Earth objects. Did You Know... ...that asteroids may have killed the dinosaurs? *** Just after my father, who was a career Air Force NCO, passed away, all my brothers and sisters returned home to be with Mom. As we reminisced about my dad, we found ourselves floating from sorrow to laughter as we brought up fond memories of our nomadic military lifestyle. One morning we were discussing what music should be played at the funeral and several hymns were suggested. "But, Mom," my older sister said, "since Daddy was in the Air Force, shouldn't we request the Air Force song?" "No, dear," my mother said with a smile. "We are not playing a song with the words 'Off we go into the wild blue yonder' at your father's funeral!" *** When the Second Division set up shop in South Korea, it did so with its slogan proudly displayed at the front gate: "Second to None." A few months later, a South Korean base opened two miles down the road. The sign greeting visitors read "You are now entering the famed sector of the South Korean ROK Division, better known as 'The None Division.' " *** Who says companies only care about the bottom line? Ours is socially conscious and offers employees fun outdoor activities throughout the complex. Both of these admirable elements were driven home one day when a voice over the loudspeaker boomed "Everyone who signed up to donate blood, please report to the rifle range!" *** Spanish never came easily to my sister. Still, she did her best to communicate with the Spanish-speaking staff at the restaurant she managed. But when she made mistakes—and she made a lot—she'd apologize by saying, "Me estúpido." Finally, a staffer took pity on her. "Susanna, you're not estúpido," she said, bucking up my sister's ego. "You are a woman," she continued. "So you are estúpida." *** Over the years, my husband and I have usually managed to decode the cute but confusing gender signs they sometimes put on restroom doors in restaurants (Buoys & Gulls, Laddies & Lassies, etc.), but every so often we get stumped. Recently my husband, Dave, wandered off in search of the men’s room and found himself confronted by two marked doors. One was labeled 'Bronco' and the other was designated 'Cactus.' Completely baffled, he stopped a restaurant employee passing by. "Excuse me, I need to use the restroom," Dave said. Gesturing toward the doors, he asked, "Which one should I use?" "Actually, we would prefer you to go there," the employee said, pointing to a door down the hall marked 'Men.' "Bronco and Cactus are private dining rooms." *** *** *** *** *** *** *** Primordial Pouch (Cat Belly Flap) in Cats - Cat-World *** *** *** How an "underwater waterfall" came to exist on Mauritius - Big Think *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

March 22nd 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Bihar Day (Bihar, India) Christian feast day: Basil of Ancyra Blessed Clemens August Graf von Galen Darerca of Ireland Epaphroditus Jonathan Edwards (Lutheranism) Lea of Rome Nicholas Owen Paul of Narbonne March 22 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Earliest day on which Easter Sunday can fall (last in 1818, will not happen again until 2285), while April 25 is the latest. (Christianity) Emancipation Day or Día de la Abolición de la Esclavitud (Puerto Rico) World Water Day (International) Observances (click on the day, BD, week or month for details) National Goof Off Day American Red Cross Giving Day As Young As You Feel Day Bavarian Crepes Day Daffodil Day Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Army Gryffindor Pride Day International Day Of The Seal International Talk Like William Shatner Day National Donald Day Nauryz Day Nevruz Day Ougadi Talk Like William Shakespeare Day World Day of Metta Reese Witherspoon’s Birthday JJ Watt’s Birthday ~~~~~~ Wed Mar 22nd, 2023 - Thu Apr 20th, 2023 Ramadan Fun Observances International Goof Off Day March 22 is International Goof Off Day. The unofficial holiday encourages people to take the day to relax and do unproductive and useless things. Goofing off or to goof off is an expression popularly used in the United States. Neglecting Work The expression refers to the act of doing something that is unproductive while neglecting actual, important work. A goof off is a person who engages in such acts and ignores his or her duties and tasks. Careless Mistake The word goof can be used to refers to a careless mistake as well as someone who makes them. International Goof Off Day is also known as National Goof Off Day in the United States. Other goofy holidays include Fun at Work Day, Work Naked Day, and Wear Pajamas to Work Day. How to Celebrate? Goof the whole day off. Don't do anything that is productive or important. Spend the day online or even better switch off your computer and all your mobile devices and goof off in the outdoors. Did You Know… …that the world's most famous goofy comic character, Goofy was originally known as Dippy Dawg? *** 'If I were to die first, would you remarry?" the wife asks. "Well," says the husband, "I'm in good health, so why not?" "Would she live in my house?" "It's all paid up, so yes." "Would she drive my car?" "It's new, so yes." "Would she use my golf clubs?" "No. She's left-handed." *** Lying on his deathbed, the rich, miserly old man calls to his long-suffering wife. "I want to take all my money with me," he tells her. "So promise me you'll put it in the casket." After the man dies, his widow attends the memorial service with her best friend. Just before the undertaker closes the coffin, she places a small metal box inside. Her friend looks at her in horror. "Surely," she says, "you didn't put the money in there." "I did promise him I would," the widow answers. "So I got it all together, deposited every penny in my account, and wrote him a check. If he can cash it, he can spend it." *** Interviewing a college applicant, the dean of admissions asks, "If you could have a conversation with someone, living or dead, who would it be?" The student thinks it over, then answers, "The living one." *** For a late snack, my sisters and I stopped at a diner. Walking in, we smelled cooking gas. When the waitress came to seat us, we urged her to tell someone so they could find the leak. She thanked us, saying she'd look into it right away. Then she asked us in her most pleasant waitress voice, "Will that be smoking or nonsmoking?" *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

Caring for your pet tarantula | Keeping Bugs (Just a passing thought. Whoopee, it's gone already, that was a scary one.)

March 21st 2023 - Holidays and Observances (click on the day for details) Arbor Day (Portugal) Birth of Benito Juárez, a Fiestas Patrias (Mexico) Christian feast day: Benedetta Cambiagio Frassinello Passing of Saint Benedict (Order of Saint Benedict, pre-1970 Calendar) Birillus Enda of Aran Nicholas of Flüe Serapion of Thmuis Thomas Cranmer (Anglicanism) March 21 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics) Education Freedom Day Harmony Day (Australia) Human Rights Day (South Africa) Independence Day, celebrates the independence of Namibia from South African mandate in 1990 International Colour Day (International) International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (International) International Day of Forests (International), by proclamation of the United Nations General Assembly Mother's Day (most of the Arab world) National Tree Planting Day (Lesotho) Newroz (Iran, Kurdistan, Mesopotamia) Oltenia Day (Romania) Rosie the Riveter Day (United States) Truant's Day (Poland, Faroe Islands) Vernal equinox related observances (see March 20) World Down Syndrome Day (International) World Poetry Day (International) World Puppetry Day (International) Youth Day (Tunisia) Observances (click on the day, BD, or week for details) Afghanistan Day Angola Carnival Day Astrology Day Big Bang Day Credit Card Reduction Day International Race Relations Day March New Moon Memory Day National 3-D Day National Ag Day National Aries Day National Beverly Day National California Strawberry Day National Countdown Day National Crunchy Taco Day National Day Of Action On Syringe Exchange National Flower Day National Fragrance Day National French Bread Day National Healthy Fats Day National Peter Day National Renewable Energy Day National Single Parent Day National Teenager Day Naw-Ruz (Baha'i New Year) Nowruz Bayram Race Relations Day Slytherin Pride Day Spring Fairy Fun Day Tea for Two Tuesday The Big Walk and Wheel Twitter Day Vermouth Day WE Day World Forestry Day World Social Work Day Shannade Clermont’s Birthday TINI’s Birthday Jace Norman’s Birthday Fun Observances Common Courtesy Day March 21 is Common Courtesy Day, a day to practice common courtesy. The day is a reminder that our treatment of others speaks volumes about our character and our moral fiber. Culturally Dependent Common courtesy refers to basic practices and behaviors that are considered to be acceptable and appropriate in a given social and cultural setting. Because of this, it is possible that what is considered common courtesy in one society, may be considered rude and unacceptable in another. Thank You Is Universal Some common courtesies are still considered to be universal. These include: saying please and thank you when asking for a favor, maintaining hygiene standards, not making rude or obscene gestures, and respecting elders. In most societies, not only is a person judged by their behavior towards other people, he or she is also treated the same way as they treat others. In this way, the practice of common courtesy creates a tight-knit group, where every member follows the same practices and treats each other in the same way. Evolutionary Behavior Researchers have suggested that this need for group members to follow similar social and interpersonal etiquette serves an evolutionary purpose. People from other tribes and groups who follow different behavioral rules can be easily identified and denied in-group benefits. What Goes Around... People who are kind and polite tend to find themselves being treated in kind and with more friends and admirers. The bottom-line is: it pays to follow common courtesies. What goes around, comes around. How to Celebrate? While most people practice common courtesy every day, take this day to assess how you interact with others and perhaps change your behavior. Start with simple things like saying please and thank you and sorry when appropriate. Thank people who are courteous to you and appreciate them. Did You Know... ...that the term curtsey, meaning to bow down in front of someone as an act of respect, originated in the late 1600s in England? *** A motorist was driving in the country when he came upon a priest and a rabbi standing on the shoulder of the road, fishing. Next to them was a sign that read "Turn Around. The End Is Near." The motorist didn't like to be preached to, so he rolled down the window and yelled, "Mind your own business, you religious nuts!" A few seconds later the two fishermen heard tires screech, then a splash. The rabbi turned to the priest and said, "I told you we should've just written, 'Bridge Out.' " *** If you arrest a mime, do you still have to tell him he has the right to remain silent? *** Three vampires walk into a bar. "What can I get ya?" asks the bartender. "Blood," orders the first vampire. "Make it two," says the second. The bartender looks at the third. "What about you, buddy?" "Plasma," says the vampire. "Okay," replies the barman. "Let me make sure I've got this straight. Two bloods and a blood light." *** My husband was bending over to tie my three-year-old's shoes. That's when I noticed my son, Ben, staring at my husband's head. He gently touched the slightly thinning spot of hair and said in a concerned voice, "Daddy, you have a hole in your head. Does it hurt?" After a pause, I heard my husband's murmured reply: "Not physically." *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** sandrewn

Yes they do! However, and please don't take any offense, I take great comfort in knowing that between them and me there is(are) oceans and half the planet, about...... Kilometers: 14150.94 km. / Miles: 8792.99 miles. / Nautical Miles: 7635.83 NM. ✈️ Estimated flight time: 15.51 hours and that really makes my day. Best wishes,

I think I will stick with the ' Myr ' quote to be on the safe side. Much of the Netherlands Is Below Sea Level Today, around 27% of the Netherlands is actually below sea level. This area is home to over 60% of the country's population of approximately 17 million people. The Netherlands, which is roughly the size of the U.S. states Connecticut and Massachusetts combined, has an average elevation of 36 feet (11 meters). A huge part of the Netherlands is highly susceptible to flooding. Time will tell if the North Sea Protection Works are strong enough to protect it. How the Netherlands Reclaimed Land From the Sea sandrewn 🤞