The Squid Calendar

Today, January 21, is National Hugging Day.  The physical act of a hug is not to be underestimated.  A hug has the power to change emotions.  It gives the feeling of belonging and worth.  Give some hugs today and your day will be better for it.

Free Hugs Campaign – The Many Benefits of Hug Therapy by Comfortdoc

You’ve got to love squirrels!

Squirrel Safety by CodeRedImprov

(Photo by Mihnea)

Today being Penguin Awareness Day, we must time to recognize these amazing birds, and how remarkable their existence is, let alone revel in how adorably cute they are.

Penguin Awareness Day by melymj4
A Potpourri of Penguins by Christene

So today, watch your favorite penguin movie – whether it be Happy Feet, March of the Penguins, or Farce of the Penguins.

(Penguin photo by magical-world)

January 17-23 is Handwriting Analysis Week.  Science or not, people are fascinated with what a person’s handwriting might say about them.

What I do know, is that my handwriting has changed drastically since high school. Every year when I vote, I see the copy of my signature from my original voter registration card from when I was 18.  I must sign below it, and I’m surprised they accept my signature at all.  Looking at the two next to each other, even I would suspect voter fraud.

Analyze Your Handwriting by voodoomama

Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  MLK propelled the civil rights movement forward.  He inspired millions to stand up for what they believe in, and he did wonders to help people see that change is possible and necessary.

Who is Dr Martin Luther King Jr?
MLK Jr. Lapbook

Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is:  What are you doing for others?”

And so, today is also National Day of Service.

January 17th is Kid Inventors’ Day.  Kids have great imaginations, and with them the ability to invent great things.  Don’t underestimate the potential of a child.

An adults solution to a problem is often what they’ve seen done, or something like something they’ve seen done.  Without such exposure, kids often chose an alternate route altogether and sometimes something magical happens: they’ve invented something.

Check out Young Inventors International from AnneSwift.

Today is Religious Freedom Day.  Today we celebrate the American right to freedom of religion and freedom of speech in respect to our beliefs.

Freedom of religion in public schools is often an issue of confusion.  Can students pray in school? Read the Bible? Wear religious t-shirts? Can they leave class to pray?  They they write school papers on faith related issues?

In short: Yes.  Learn more at Religious Freedom in Schools by PastorKay

On January 15, 1870 Harper’s Weekly published a cartoon by Thomas Nast which represented the Democratic Party as a donkey. Although others earlier had portrayed democrats as a donkey, in reference to Andrew Jackson being called a “jackass”, Thomas Nast is credited with the democrat donkey representation.

Proud to Be Democrat! | Political Party Gifts for the Democrat Donkey

Just look at it – is your mouth watering?  Well this should answer the “what’s for lunch” question!

The Good Ol’ Pastrami Sandwich by ChineseKitesforKids

(Photo by Marshal Astor)

Today is that wonderfully fun day when we celebrate the Rubber Ducky.

Rubber Duckies have come a long way in recent years.  They are not just yellow, they come in all colors and sizes, some even dressed up.

Oh Rubber Ducky! by Victoria_Neely

Sesame Street’s Ernie LOVED his rubber ducky, and even sang to it, and about it. Watch some Rubber Ducky videos at the Rubber Ducky Video Showcase.

(Photo from Kernal Sanders)