Featured

Savoring September

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

As summer gently fades into autumn, September invites us to savor the beauty and warmth of this transitional month. With its crisp air, vibrant foliage, and comforting traditions, September is a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones.

Weather and Changing Seasons

September is a month of contrasts. In many places, warm days linger, allowing us to bask in the sun’s glow before the chill of winter sets in. As the leaves begin to change, we witness nature’s stunning transformation:

Early September: Expect warm, sunny days with temperatures often in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit). It’s perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the last of summer’s bounty.
Late September: The air cools significantly, often dipping into the 50s and 60s. Sweaters and cozy blankets make their return as we prepare for the autumn chill.

This month serves as a gentle reminder to embrace change, both in nature and within ourselves.

QUALFORT Women's 100% Cotton Lightweight Cardigans Long Sleeve Sweater
Soft Lightweight Knit Cardigan with Long Sleeves and Button Down Front for Casual Daily Wear, Business, Office and Layering — Ads by Amazon curated by Jen’s Perspective see more on our storefront

Zeagoo Sweaters for Women Cropped Crewneck Basic 2026 Trendy Fall Tops
Cropped Sweater, Winter Clothing, Long Sleeve Dressy Top, Business Casual Outfit, Pullover Sweater, Early Fall Fashion — Ads by Amazon curated by Jen’s Perspective see more on our storefront

Celebrating All Month Long

Alopecia Areata Awareness Month
Baby Safety Month
Better Breakfast Month
Classical Music Month
Fall Hat Month
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month
Hispanic Heritage Month – September 15 to October 15
Intergeneration Month
International Update Your Resume Month
Little League Month
National Americana Month
National Blood Cancer Awareness Month
National Disease Literacy Month
National Square Dance Month
National Blueberry Popsicle Month
National Chicken Month
National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National Courtesy Month
National Honey Month
National Italian Cheese Month
National Library Card Sign Up Month
National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month
National Mortgage Professional Month
National Mushroom Month
National Pain Awareness Month
National Piano Month
National Potato Month
National Preparedness Month
National Recovery Month
National Rice Month
National Self Improvement Month
National Self-Care Awareness Month
National Sewing Month
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Sourdough September
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month
National Suicide Awareness Month
Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month
Prostate Health Month
Save Your Photos Month
Savoring Sapphires, September Birthstone
Self Improvement Month
Whole Grains Month

Birthday Symbols and Famous Birthdays

September is rich with symbolism, particularly in its birthstones and zodiac signs:

Birthstone: The sapphire, symbolizing wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Its deep blue hue is reminiscent of the clear autumn sky.
Zodiac Signs: Virgo (August 23 – September 22) and Libra (September 23 – October 22). Virgos are known for their practicality and attention to detail, while Libras epitomize harmony and balance.

Famous birthdays this month include:

Freddie Mercury (September 5)
Beyoncé (September 4)
Agatha Christie (September 15)
Stephen King (September 21)

Each of these figures has left an indelible mark on their respective fields, reminding us of the creativity and inspiration that can blossom in this month.

Cozy Activities to Embrace September

As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some cozy activities. Here are a few ideas to make the most of September:

Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll through a local park or nature reserve to witness the changing leaves. Bring along a thermos of hot cider for an extra touch of warmth.
Baking Days: September is ideal for baking seasonal treats. Try your hand at apple pies or pumpkin bread, filling your home with comforting aromas.
Book Nook: Create a cozy reading corner with soft blankets and pillows. Dive into a good book, perhaps one by a beloved September birthday author.
Crafting: Start a DIY autumn project, whether it’s creating decorative wreaths from fallen leaves or knitting scarves to prepare for the colder months.
Movie Nights: Host a movie marathon featuring fall-themed films. Snuggle up with popcorn, hot chocolate, and your favorite cozy blankets.
Harvest Festivals: If possible, attend local harvest festivals or farmer’s markets. Enjoy the seasonal produce and connect with your community.
Mindfulness Moments: Take time for reflection and mindfulness. Consider journaling about your hopes and goals for the coming months or simply enjoy a moment of stillness outdoors.

Embracing the Spirit of September

September is a month that encourages us to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and indulge in the simple joys of life. Whether it’s through the warmth of family gatherings, the thrill of birthdays, or the serenity of nature, let this month be a reminder to savor every moment. As we transition into autumn, may we carry the light of summer in our hearts and embrace the cozy changes ahead.

What cozy activity are you looking forward to this September?

Keurig K-Duo Essentials Hot & Iced Single Serve K-Cup Pod & Carafe Coffee Maker, Gen 2

Color Bubble Wall Art Posters Geometric Canvas Painting 24"x48" Abstract Wall Decorations Pictures for Kitchen Art for Bedroom

BALI OUTDOORS 28" Gas Fire Pit Table with Metal Lid and Lava Rocks, 50,000 BTU / Gray

Ads by Walmart curated by Jen’s Perspective visit our storefront

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

August 31, 2026August 7, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 5 Comments

Beginning on September 15, and continuing through to October 15, we recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. During the four weeks, celebrations honor the heritage and contributions made by members of the Hispanic community. President Lyndon Johnson first declared Hispanic Heritage Week in September of 1968. Years later, in 1988, U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California) introduced legislation to expand Hispanic Heritage Week into a full month. Festivities begin on September 15, marking the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. With great fanfare, celebrations sweep across Latin America, Central American, and on into Mexico and Chili commemorating each country’s independence from week to week!

CONTRIBUTIONS

As of 2016, the Hispanic population has grown to nearly 57 million people in the United States. Amazingly, Hispanic people contribute to two-thirds of the residents, with that number increasing every day. Furthermore, an estimated 27 million Hispanics were eligible to vote that same year, proving people of Hispanic heritage are a thriving part of society. As the Hispanic population continues to grow in strides, more opportunity presents itself to embrace the rich culture and vast history they provide. From coast to coast, we celebrate Hispanic heritage every day in mainstream society. It’s not only reflecting our cultural differences; it’s adding a different perspective to our lives for us to enjoy.

Hispanic people across the country contribute to society in unprecedented ways. Historically, Alberto Gonzales is credited as being the first Hispanic U.S. Attorney General, while Mel Martinez is considered the first Cuban-American U.S. Senator. Currently, and politically, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, both members of the Hispanic community, are members of the U.S. Senate. Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic to sit as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. Undeniably, representation from the Hispanic community is found in schools, public office, medical, fashion, as well as every aspect of business.

In addition, pop culture contributions by the Hispanic community flourishes thanks to many talented artists, such as Salma Hayek, George Lopez, Carlos Santana, and Jennifer Lopez. Finally, we need to give credit to the countless tasty Hispanic recipes found across the nation. Hispanic food has increasingly become a part of mainstream Americana. We relish the flavor and spice deeply infused into the traditions. Dishes ranging from tacos and tamales to Cuban sandwiches, nachos, Tres leche cake, family taco night, tequila, and Mojitos, entice us to enjoy the Hispanic heritage, one bite at a time.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH HISTORY

Originally, President Lyndon Johnson declared Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Through later legislation, submitted by U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California), the week was expanded to National Hispanic Heritage Month under the direction of President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

More to Explore…

HOW TO OBSERVE #HispanicHeritageMonth

Joining local celebrations during National Hispanic Heritage Month is a fantastic way to meet new people. Additionally, you can learn more about the contributions Hispanics have made in areas of politics, business, the arts, sports, fashion, and cuisine, to name a few. Embracing the history and traditions of another culture not only broadens your knowledge, but it also teaches appreciation of other people and their customs.

Use #HispanicHeritageMonth in social media correspondence.

NATIONAL COURTESY MONTH

August 31, 2026August 4, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 3 Comments

It takes little effort to extend kindness. The entire month of September gives ample opportunity to practice being kind. It’s National Courtesy Month!

The word courteous comes from the Middle English word ‘kindness,’ which means ‘noble deeds’ or ‘courtesy’. One of the greatest novelists in the English Language, Henry James, once said: “Three things in human life are important: The first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; the third is to be kind.” So, what does it mean to be courteous?

Courtesy can mean several things to different people. To some, being courteous means to be helpful. To others, being courteous means to be polite and having good manners. Courtesy can be words spoken or an action towards someone. Courtesy is about manners and respect. How you choose to show someone courtesy is entirely up to you!

A single kind word keeps one warm for three winters – Chinese Proverb

Courtesy should never have limits for people you know. Showing a stranger common courtesy could be the defining factor of their day. Oftentimes, a small gesture, such as a compliment, can make a person feel appreciated. When people are considerate to one another, a positive effect happens. Moods improve and smiles are easily found. Starting your day with a polite demeanor will have a ripple effect for the people you encounter!

Though we were unable to find the founder of National Courtesy Month, we did find a National Courtesy Campaign launched in June 1979 by the Ministry of Culture of Singapore. The campaign aims to encourage Singaporeans to be more kind and considerate to each other.

Explore More…

Be an Angel Day
Random Acts of Kindness
World Kindness Day
Kiss of Hope Day
National Make A Friend Day
Global Love Day
National Compliment Day
Do A Grouch A Favor Day
Cheer up the Lonely Day
National Joygerm Day
National Month of Hope
Inspire Your Heart with Art
Good Samaritan Day
National Soup It Forward Day
Make A Friend Day Make A Friend Day
Do Something Nice Day
Make A Difference Day
National Gratitude Day
National Day of Encouragement
National Brave Day
Care Bears Share Your Care Day
Love is Kind Day
Upsy Daisy Day
Self Care Awareness Month
Self Improvement Month
Universal Hour of Peace
World Smile Day
Happiness happens Day
Happiness Happens Month
National Cuddle Up Day
National Loving Day
Summersgiving
National Play Catch Week
Social Media Giving Day
International Drop A Rock Day
International Clown Week
Happiness Month
International Top Spinning Day
Hunt For Happiness Week
Best Friends Day
National Random Act of Light Day
National Find A Rainbow Day

HOW TO OBSERVE

There are so many ways to show kindness to people through courtesy. Hold the door open for the people behind you! Mow your elderly neighbor’s lawn! Compliment that shy person you see every day on the subway! Above all, SMILE at everyone you meet!

Use #NationalCourtesyMonth to share on social month.

How to Be a Lady: A Contemporary Guide to Common Courtesy (The GentleManners Series)#NationalCourtesyMonth — How to Be a Lady: A Contemporary Guide to Common Courtesy (The GentleManners Series)

How to Raise a Gentleman Revised and Expanded: A Civilized Guide to Helping Your Son Through His Uncivilized Childhood#NationalCourtesyMonth — How to Be a Lady: A Contemporary Guide to Common Courtesy (The GentleManners Series)

NATIONAL MARYLAND DAY

August 23, 2026August 7, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

On August 24, we usher in the 7th state to join the Union with National Maryland Day. Maryland’s coastal location brings with it a deeply rooted maritime heritage that includes an ocean battle defending the city of Baltimore at Ft. McHenry during the War of 1812. One witness to the action became so inspired, Francis Scott Key penned the words that later became our National Anthem.

The Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812: The History of the Battle that Inspired the National Anthem Kindle Edition

by Charles River Editors (Author) — The Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812: The History of the Battle that Inspired the National Anthem

by Charles River Editors (Author)

Chesapeake Bay

Just over 200 years before these traditions flourished, Captian John Smith explored the Chesapeake Bay and the Nanticoke River. He kept a record of his travels, documenting the Native American people. Smith wrote about their cultures, the abundant animal, and plant life. Since this vast watershed is the largest estuary in the United States, the complex ecosystem thrives with diverse plant and wildlife.

Captain John Smith: A Select Edition of His Writings (Published by the Omohundro Institute of Early American History and Culture and the University of North Carolina Press) Kindle Edition
by Karen Ordahl Kupperman (Editor) — Captain John Smith: A Select Edition of His Writings (Published by the Omohundro Institute of Early American History and Culture and the University of North Carolina Press) Kindle Edition

by Karen Ordahl Kupperman (Editor)

Boardwalk

Spending a weekend or a vacation at Ocean City with friends or family is a highlight of any Maryland trip. The boardwalk and beaches provide plenty of relaxation, adventure, and fun in the sun. The Eastern Shore offers scenic views, site seeing, peaceful accommodations, festivals and events for everyone.

Civil War History

Head west to Antitiem and Maryland will take you into another era. Here, the battlefields and Antietam National Cemetery hold a solemn reminder of the bloodiest singled day battle of the Civil War that occurred on September 17, 1862. Five days later, President Lincoln issued a Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Although Maryland was a southern state as defined by the Mason-Dixon line, it never seceded from the Union. While many families throughout the war fought on opposing sides, for Maryland families, it was a reoccurring theme.

Industry

Being located close to Washington D.C. makes Maryland ideal for aerospace, defense, and federal cybersecurity jobs. The state’s fishing industry thrives and is the largest producer of blue crabs in the state. The Oldline State is also home to McCormick & Company, Perdue Farms, Lockheed Martin, Black & Decker and Underarmor.

Official Maryland

State Capital – Annapolis
State Nickname – The Old Line State
State Motto – Fatti maschs parole femine
State Bird – Baltimore Oriole
State Flower – Black-eyed Susan
State Folk Dance – Square Dance
State Fish – Rockfish
State Dessert – Smith Island Cake
State Fossil – Ecphora gardnerae
State Tree – White Oak
State Song – Maryland, My Maryland
State Gemstone – Patuxent River Stone
State Insect – Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly

NOTABLE PEOPLE

Johns Hopkins – Philanthropist – (May 19, 1795 – December 24, 1873)

The Ghosts of Johns Hopkins: The Life and Legacy that Shaped an American City Kindle Edition

by Antero Pietila (Author)

Harriet Tubman – Activist – (1822 – March 10, 1913)

Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom Paperback – January 5, 2005

by Catherine Clinton (Author)

Frederick Douglass – Journalist – Activist – ( unknown – February 20, 1895)

Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom Kindle Edition
by David W. Blight (Author) — Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom Kindle Edition

by David W. Blight (Author)

Upton Sinclair – Author – (September 20, 1878 – November 25, 1968)

Upton Sinclair and the Other American Century Kindle Edition

by Kevin Mattson (Author)

Babe Ruth – Professional Athlete – (February 6, 1895 – August 16, 1948)

The Big Bam: The Life and Times of Babe Ruth Paperback – May 1, 2007

by Leigh Montville (Author) — The Big Bam: The Life and Times of Babe Ruth

by Leigh Montville (Author)

Thurgood Marshall – Supreme Court Justice – (July 2, 1908 – January 24, 1993)

Thurgood Marshall: His Speeches, Writings, Arguments, Opinions, and Reminiscences (The Library of Black America series) Kindle Edition

by Mark V. Tushnet (Editor), Randall Kennedy (Foreword) — Thurgood Marshall: His Speeches, Writings, Arguments, Opinions, and Reminiscences (The Library of Black America series)

by Mark V. Tushnet (Editor), Randall Kennedy (Foreword)

Thurgood Marshall: America's First African American Supreme Court Justice — Thurgood Marshall: America’s First African American Supreme Court Justice

Barbara Mikulski – U.S. Representative – (July 20, 1936 – )

Mike Roe – Television host – (March 18, 1962 – )

The Way I Heard It Kindle Edition
by Mike Rowe (Author) — The Way I Heard It Kindle Edition

by Mike Rowe (Author)

Maryland Flavor

Milk
Cream of Crab Soup
Fisher’s popcorn
Stuffed Ham
Crab dip
Berger Cookies
Steamed Crab
Crab Cakes
Thrashers Fries

Marylanders know their crab. It’s a big deal. Crab cakes, crab dip, steamed crab or a good old fashioned crab boil. However, they serve it up, they serve it deliciously and with pride. They know their seafood, but they know their crab. Don’t forget the Old Bay, either.

Follow that with Thrashers Fries and Fisher’s Popcorn from Ocean City’s boardwalk. It’s a required stop.

Fisher's Popcorn Caramel Popcorn, Gluten Free, 5 Simple Ingredients, Handmade, No Preservatives, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Zero Trans Fat, 20oz Tub

by Fisher's Popcorn — Fisher’s Popcorn Caramel Popcorn, Gluten Free, 5 Simple Ingredients, Handmade, No Preservatives, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Zero Trans Fat, 20oz Tub

by Fisher’s Popcorn

Stuffed ham gains a favored place on the table in Maryland. Seasoned cabbage, kale, and onions are stuffed into a boneless ham, boiled and served cold.

For dessert, Marylanders like peach pot pie and the official state dessert, Smith Island Cake. Peach pot pie is similar to a cobbler with a sweet biscuit crust. As August 24th is also Peach Pie Day, it could be that this is how the tradition got started. The eight layers of the Smith Island Cake features fudge and moist yellow cake.

But, let’s remember crabs, in whole or part, are outstanding in Maryland.

Hidden Treasures

National Capital Radio & Television Museum – Bowie

John Paul Jones’ Crypt – Annapolis

Edgar Allan Poe’s Grave – Baltimore

College Park Airport and Aviation Museum – College Park

Underground Railroad Experience Trail – Ashton-Sandy Spring

Gathland State Park – Frederick County

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalMarylandDay

This beautiful state spans mountains and oceans, countryside and metropolis. Celebrate Maryland’s people and their history on August 24. Use #NationalMarylandDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL CONNECTICUT DAY

August 9, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

Woven into the fabric of this state’s historic landscape, we find revolutionaries, innovators, and philosophers. On August 10th, National Connecticut Day recognizes the contributions of the fifth state to join the United States of America.

Connecticut Icons: Classic Symbols of the Nutmeg State Kindle Edition

by Charles Monagan (Author) — Connecticut Icons: Classic Symbols of the Nutmeg State

by Charles Monagan (Author)

Like other colonies of the region, the Dutch first explored and founded trading posts in Connecticut. In 1633, Puritans from Massachusetts established the first permanent settlement. From the outset, the industry established a means to prosperity in the colony. Production of brass buttons and munitions placed the colony in a position to later supply the Revolutionary Army. The colonial governor of Connecticut, Jonathan Trumbull, was the only governor who supported independence.

All three Connecticut delegates to the first Continental Congress continued their representation of the colony at the Second Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence.

Creating Connecticut: Critical Moments That Shaped a Great State Kindle Edition

by Walter W. Woodward (Author) — Creating Connecticut: Critical Moments That Shaped a Great State

by Walter W. Woodward (Author)

In fact, Roger Sherman is the only person to have signed the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the United States Constitution. Eliphalet Dyer served the state of Connecticut as chief justice after the revolution.

Silas Deane served as a spy during the war and was for a time branded a traitor along with another Connecticut native, Benedict Arnold. He died penniless, but decades later in 1840, his granddaughter would petition Congress to review his records. His name would be cleared.

Connecticut’s small but full landscape holds countless revolutionary stories and adventures along New England’s National Scenic Trail. Through every season and every era, there’s something for every generation to enjoy!