Don Canney

When I was a kid, the only “national” days I was aware of were the days we all typically celebrated, such as Christmas, New Year’s Day, July Fourth, Labor Day, etc.

But I was flabbergasted to discover that every day of the year is essentially a “national” day for some reason or another. The “National Day Calendar” proves it.

In the month of August alone, there are well over 100 “national” days packed into a month with only 31.

We start the month with National Mahjong Day. I’m not a Mahjong player but would assume fans of the game would be happy to hear it has its own day. It’s followed by Respect for Parents Day. Pay attention kids. And then oddly enough, National Girlfriend’s Day. Pay attention guys.

August also touts a National Coloring Book Day. I can get into that. It’s great stress relief, so long as you don’t stress out if you can’t stay within the lines. Did you know August has a National Grab Some Nuts Day? We won’t go down that path. National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day is August 4th in addition to National Coast Guard Day. Who doesn’t love chocolate Chip cookies? And thank you for your service to Coast Guard members.

National Underwear Day is the same day as national Work Like a Dog Day. There may be some tie in there, as a change in the former would result from the latter.

August 6 is International Beer Day. Now there’s a reason to celebrate worldwide. One would think that day would be in October with Oktoberfest. August 7 is National Purple Heart Day, again, thanks to our military for your service. It’s also National Mustard Day, my favorite hot dog condiment. Additionally, it’s National Play Outside Day. Why do we so rarely see kids playing outside anymore?

This month is National Happiness Happens Day. Don’t worry, be happy! Also, there is a Sneak Some Zucchini into Your Neighbor’s Porch Day this month. Huh?

What about National Rice Pudding Day? I remember my mom making rice pudding when I was a kid. Still a favorite. And National S’mores Day, always a summertime “sit by the fire” favorite.

August 11 is National Presidential Joke Day. I’m sure there are none of those floating around. National Vinyl Record Day is this month. They are making a comeback, leapfrogging CDs in their popularity. Who among us doesn’t enjoy a good Creamsicle in the summer? Yup, it has its own day too.

On August 15, don’t forget to celebrate National Relaxation Day. If you are fortunate enough to have a hammock between a couple of trees or a nice comfy couch – go for it! August 17 brings us National I Love My Feet Day. Remember, love your feet and they will love you!

We have National Mail Order Catalogue Day on August 18. Here’s hoping you didn’t find a bundle of them in your mailbox that day. The following day is National Soft Ice Cream Day. Remember going to Dairy Queen for that treat?

National Radio Day is August 20. Maybe one could delay National Relaxation Day and combine it while listening to a favorite radio station? August 22 is both National Be An Angel Day and National Tooth Fairy Day. Again, a bit of a tie in. Well, they both have wings at least.

August 25 is National Kiss and Make Up Day. OK guys, hopefully you didn’t blow your chance. Strangely enough, the following day is National Webmistress Day. It sounds somewhat devious, but that day recognizes women in web development. Again, a bit of a tie in as that same day is National Women’s Equality Day.

August 28 is a day we can all drink to, National Red Wine Day. Raise a glass and drink a toast. Approaching the close of summer, August 30 is an ideal time for National Beach Day.

This is only a sampling of the “National” days for August. Right now, I think I’m going to attempt to combine August 4, August 15, and August 28 by grabbing a chocolate chip cookie and relaxing with a glass of red wine. Cheers!

Don Canney is a freelance writer and professional voice artist. He was born and raised in downtown Nashua with great interest in Nashua history circa 1950-1970. He now resides in Litchfield.

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