July

When we celebrate National Buffalo Soldiers Day on July 28, we can imagine them proudly riding by. They were brave in the face of battle and loyal to a country that enslaved them only years before it accepted them into the military.   They were soldiers, but they were much more. These remarkable men represented […]

It’s hard and starts with very little training, but it’s the most rewarding job in the world. Rookies quickly learn that classes and manuals don’t scratch the surface. Good advice is always available, but the sources don’t always agree. This is probably for the best because raising children is no more science than art. New […]

Whether crowned with relish, ketchup, sauerkraut or mustard, do not leave your wiener uncovered. Just as the clothes make the man, the toppings make the dog. And the most creative toppings present the best hot dogs.   It’s Hot Dog Day, observed annually on the closest Wednesday to July 19. The first dogs were offered […]

If you do not have plans for July 20, wait until nightfall.   Find yourself a comfortable spot in the backyard, snuggle down in a favorite chair, and look up.   Do you see the moon? It has been shining down on Earth since before our time. There are many wonderful pictures of our only […]

You wear your ink with pride. That gives you something in common with Ozi.   He is the world’s oldest mummy, and he sports some impressive tats. Ozi is surely here in spirit as we mark Tattoo Day on the calendar this July 17. Historians chalk up Ozi’s tattoos to an expression of religion or […]

From tot to teen, kids have grown up eating macaroni & cheese.   For adults, sitting down to enjoy this quintessential American dish brings instant comfort. On July 14, celebrate Macaroni & Cheese Day by giving this classic a gourmet makeover. If your only experience with macaroni & cheese has been throwing together processed ingredients […]

Five billion is an extraordinary figure. This was the approximate head count of our planet’s population in 1987.   It is impossible to pinpoint when a critical mass of humans will leave us with no more breathing room. In 1989, the United Nations established World Population Day, observed annually on July 11, to focus our […]

In addition to bourbon, Kentucky is noted for some enjoyable edibles. One of the most celebrated is crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. This savory food was launched from humble southern kitchens to the starring menu item at one of America’s most famous fast food eateries. Savor the flavor of this […]

It is celebrated by Americans annually on July 4. Independence Day observes the signing of our Declaration of Independence. Celebrations have come a long way since a group of five rather stoic men passed a quill around the table on July 4, 1776. The holiday falls in the midst of summer and is typically celebrated […]

Have your ribs and eat your brisket too in a gloriously gluttonous celebration of Barbecue Day, observed annually on July 4. From perfectly-seared-on-the-outside and juicy-on-the-inside steaks, to saucy ribs to spice-rubbed chicken, barbecue fare is everywhere. It is the quintessential outdoor pastime from spring through autumn and in some locales barbecuing is enjoyed throughout the […]

If there really are Martians, they’ve dealt with their own alien sightings. Our little Curiosity rover certainly qualifies, although the Martians surely know he means no harm. They are keeping pretty quiet about the whole affair, but that could change.   World UFO Day, observed annually on July 2, is the perfect earthly observance for […]

Take a few doses of therapeutic outbursts by celebrating International Joke Day, observed annually on July 1.   Laughter is good for the soul. So whether you crack up at stand-up or slapstick there is a wealth of options from which to choose. Host a party.   Dish out preparatory homework by instructing your guests […]

Most celebrations only get one day on our calendars.   Why do we devote four weeks in July to Cell Phone Courtesy Month?   No. Don’t try to Google that on your phone. Please stay with me here. That’s the point. Somewhere along the way, our cell phones hijacked our good manners. The gadgets became […]