Dates in History

Dates in History

Start the month off with a nod to books, writers and reading…

November 1 is both National Author’s Day and National Family Literacy Day – why not gather the whole family together to read or re-read a book or story by your favorite writer? Or tell your own tales, since November is Family Stories Month, the perfect time to share and save family stories.

Early this month, drag out your tired expressions and hackneyed phrases – November 3 is Cliché Day, and then spend the next day tastefully celebrating Sandwich Day, which honors the birthday of John Montague, a gambler who invented the bread-meat-bread combo when he was too lazy to leave the gaming table for a real meal.

Formerly called Armistice Day, Veteran’s Day, celebrated November 11, honors all who serve or have served in the United States Military. Schools and offices are closed as parades, picnics and proclamations are the order of the day. Have an opinion? Today is also Vox Populi Day (“vox populi” is the Latin term for “People’s Voice”) so speak up and out for social change and let your voice be heard.

Children’s Book Week (Nov. 13-19) is an annual event designed to encourage young people to read and enjoy – and, since it’s also World Kindness Day, why not be nice and read your favorite book aloud to a child?

Spend the rest of the week honoring America’s most beloved stuffed animal - November 14 is National American Teddy Bear – or put your thoughts into words November 15 on I Love to Write Day.

Put down the puffs on the 16th for the Great American Smokeout, a smoke-free day celebrated nationally, bake your own loaf on Homemade Bread Day (November 17) and cut a cake in celebration of Micky Mouse’s birthday on November 18. Not feeling especially friendly? Finish off the week on a nasty note with “Have a Bad Day” Day, November 19, the one time grumps have the final word.

Let’s talk at the end of November – it’s Better Conversation Week November 20 – 26, a great time to rehearse table talk for the month’s big turkey feast, Thanksgiving Day (November 23). Take November 24 off and skip the holiday sales on Buy Nothing Day or win friends and influence people while celebrating Andrew Carnegie’s birthday.

Spend the last days of the month sending salutations via computer on Electronic Greetings Day (November 29) – you can even send yourself a feel-better card on November 30, which is Stay Home Because You’re Well Day.