Category international

INTERNATIONAL BACON DAY

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The first Saturday in September is International Bacon Day and a day to enjoy all things bacon! This delicious food holiday is a favorite because bacon makes everything better!

There are so many things we can say about bacon and the flavor it adds to dishes. Today, we are reminding everyone that bacon is not just a breakfast food, but also a great way to add delicious flavor to any recipe.

Bacon Backstory

Bacon is pork cured in salt made from cuts of the belly or back of a pig. Curing pork dates back thousands of years. During ancient times, Chinese, Egyptian, and Roman cultures all had methods for preserving pork. However, Romans recieve credit for sharing their knowledge of curing pork calling their bacon “petaso.” As cured pork expanded throughout Europe, the meat became a staple to families because of the ability to preserve it easily.

European settlers brought their pork curing techniques to America the same time the first settlers arrived. However, the meat was much saltier and leaner than what they would eat in Europe. During the 19th and 20th centuries, meat production began to expand to the general public. Brining and smoking bacon became widely acceptable in mass production, making the distribution of bacon much easier. Today, bacon plays a significant roll in American cuisine.

5 Bacon Festivals in the U.S.

  1. Bacon Fest, Pennsylvania
  2. Bourbon and Brews Festival, Kansas
  3. Bacon & Beer Festival, New Hampshire
  4. Bacon Bash, Texas
  5. Memphis Flyer Bacon & Bourbon, Tennessee

Did You Know?

Bacon is one of the most popular and recognizable meat products around the world and is known for its distinctive savory and smoky flavor.

Are there different types of bacon? Yes! Here the 4 common types of bacon throughout the world:

  1. American bacon is the most well-known bacon type. It’s made from pork belly and contains both meat and fat. This type of bacon becomes crispy after cooking.
  2. Canadian bacon is made from the lean parts of the pig. Normally, Canadian bacon is similar to ham in flavor and appearance.
  3. Pancetta is an Italian bacon made with salt and spices that can be eaten cooked or uncooked. People often use pancetta in sandwiches, but also in some dishes.
  4. Guanciale is another Italian bacon commonly used in carbonara and amatriciana. This type of bacon is the fattiest of all other bacon types and is probably most flavorful.

Bacon adds rich flavor and versatility to cooking by enhancing the dishes it is added to. Whether enjoyed on its own, as a savory ingredient, or as a guilty pleasure, bacon remains a favorite food around the globe.

HISTORY BEHIND INTERNATIONAL BACON DAY

Each year on the first Saturday in September we celebrate International Bacon Day as a way to indulge and enjoy bacon. We plan on starting our day with bacon and eggs, have a bacon sandwich for a mid morning snack, and eat a BLT for lunch. Then, we will likely eat a bacon-inspired pasta for dinner with a bacon infused dessert. Later in the evening, we are going to relax with a nice Bloody Mary with bacon garnish.

Explore More…

Salami Day

Bologna Day

Corned Beef Hash Day

Cold Cuts Day

International Bacon Day

Wiener Schnitzel Day

Sloppy Joe Day

National Sausage Month

National Meatball Day

Bacon Day

Pigs in a Blanket Day

6 INTERNATIONAL BACON DAY CELEBRATION IDEAS

International Bacon Day is a time to savor the delight of delicious bacon! Embrace your joy for bacon today by having fun with today’s food holiday.

  1. Host a bacon-everything breakfast by adding bacon to your eggs, pancakes, or omelets. You can also make breakfast burritos or add bacon to your waffle batter.
  2. Experiment with bacon in a new recipe or add it to a favorite one you already make.
  3. Cook different types of bacon and have a bacon tasting party with your family and friends. We recommend adding Applewood -smoked, maple-glazed, or peppered flavor to your menu.
  4. Create the ultimate beverages by adding bacon and other ingredients. In fact, we hear adding bacon as a garnish to a Bloody Mary is delicious!
  5. Find a local bakery or specialty bacon shop that offers a variety of bacon flavors. This might be a great way to treat yourself to a better quality bacon versus buying bacon in the grocery store.
  6. Share your love for bacon on social media using the tag #InternationalBaconDay.

Funny shh i smell bacon, International Bacon Day T-Shirt#InternationalBaconDay
Funny shh i smell bacon, International Bacon Day T-Shirt
The Original Makin Bacon Microwave Bacon Dish - Makes Crispy Bacon in Minutes - Simple, Quick, and Easy to Use - Reduces Fat Content for a Healthier Meal - Molded in The USA#InternationalBaconDay
The Original Makin Bacon Microwave Bacon Dish – Makes Crispy Bacon in Minutes – Simple, Quick, and Easy to Use – Reduces Fat Content for a Healthier Meal – Molded in The USA
PrepSolutions Microwavable Bacon Grill, White – Nonstick, Easy-Clean Design, 1 Piece#InternationalBaconDay
PrepSolutions Microwavable Bacon Grill, White – Nonstick, Easy-Clean Design, 1 Piece
The Bacon Bible: More Than 200 Recipes for Bacon You Never Knew You Needed #InternationalBaconDay
The Bacon Bible: More Than 200 Recipes for Bacon You Never Knew You Needed

WORLD COCONUT DAY

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World Coconut Day on September 2nd recognizes the flavorful and aromatic nutrition the coconut brings to many products.

Biologically, the coconut is a seed, nut, and fruit all in one package. However, the term for a one-seeded fruit (nut) is “drupe.” Every part of the coconut is sourced from the water inside the shell to the outer husk. Its oil moisturizes our skin and improves the flavor of our food. The nutrient-rich ingredient is one superfood!

The coconut is full of anti-viral and anti-microbial properties. This nutrient-rich seed provides fiber, Vitamin B6, iron, and minerals.

Grown in tropical areas, the coconut also brings to mind yummy tropical drinks like the pina colada. We can use coconut milk to make ice cream, sauces, and soups.

Native Forest Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk – Canned Coconut Milk, No Guar Gum, Non-GMO Project Verified, USDA Organic – Simple
Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Coconut Water#WorldCoconutDay
Amazon Brand – Happy Belly Coconut Water
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Peach Mango, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes#WorldCoconutDay
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Peach Mango, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Blueberry Pomegranate, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes#WorldCoconutDay
BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink Low-Calorie Sports Beverage, Blueberry Pomegranate, Coconut Water Hydration, Natural Flavors With Vitamins, Potassium-Packed Electrolytes

WORLD COCONUT DAY HISTORY

In 1998, the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community declared World Coconut Day to bring awareness to the powerful nutrients and versatility of this superfood.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldCoconutDay

Crack open a coconut! Learn all the ways to cook with this plentiful nut (um, seed…fruit…drupe). See how many ways you can use the coconut. Will be the oil as a lip balm? Or will you use the milk for a sauce? This versatile ingredient calls for experimentation and adventure.

Share your celebrations using #WorldCoconutDay on social media.

Amazon Fresh, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, 30 Fl Oz #WorldCoconutDay
Amazon Fresh, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, 30 Fl Oz
Anthony's Organic Shredded Coconut, 2 lb, Unsweetened, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegan, Keto Friendly#WorldCoconutDay
Anthony’s Organic Shredded Coconut, 2 lb, Unsweetened, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegan, Keto Friendly
Let's Do Organic Heavy Coconut Cream – Canned Coconut Cream, Whipped Cream, Heavy Cream, No Guar Gum, Dairy Free, USDA Organic#WorldCoconutDay
Let’s Do Organic Heavy Coconut Cream – Canned Coconut Cream, Whipped Cream, Heavy Cream, No Guar Gum, Dairy Free, USDA Organic
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil - Unrefined, Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, USDA Organic and Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Great as Hair Oil and Skin Oil#WorldCoconutDay
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil – Unrefined, Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, USDA Organic and Non-GMO Cooking Oil, Great as Hair Oil and Skin Oil
Handcraft Blends Fractionated Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz - 100% Pure and Natural - Premium Grade Oil for Skin, Hair,Tonic - Carrier Hair Growth Oil#WorldCoconutDay
Handcraft Blends Fractionated Coconut Oil, 16 Fl Oz – 100% Pure and Natural – Premium Grade Oil for Skin, Hair,Tonic – Carrier Hair Growth Oil
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Flour (4 lbs) - Gluten Free Flour Substitute for Keto, Paleo and Vegan Baking, Low Fat and Fiber-Rich Coconut Baking Flour, Non-GMO, Unbleached and Unrefined#WorldCoconutDay
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Flour (4 lbs) – Gluten Free Flour Substitute for Keto, Paleo and Vegan Baking, Low Fat and Fiber-Rich Coconut Baking Flour, Non-GMO, Unbleached and Unrefined

CLASSICAL MUSIC MONTH

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September is classical music month. Classical music differs greatly from today’s standards. However, classical music sets  stage for the music we have today.

Classical music has many periods and styles throughout its history.  Classical music is actually broken into different smaller periods, each having their own differences. It is interesting to see just how much music has changed over time!

Classical Music Time Periods

(PLEASE NOTE: The dates of the time periods are only estimates since there are no exact dates for when each time period occurred/ began/ended)

Medieval (500ish­ – 1400)­ The music of this time was connected to the church. Forms of music from the early part of this period would be Gregorian Chants and Organum.

Some Composers From this Period: Hildegard von Bingen, Guillaume de Machaut

Renaissance (1400/1450­ – 1600)­ The Renaissance era brought many new ideas and gave a little bit more freedom from the church, which allowed for more experimentation with music. The printing press, invented in the 1400’s, also allowed for music to be printed. Instrumental music was developed as well.

Some Composers From this Period: William Byrd, Claudio Monteverdi, Josquin Des Prez

Baroque (1600 – ­1750)­ The music of the Baroque was very ornate. This period also had the creation of the concerto, canata, oratorio, and the sonata. There were advancements with instruments as well.

Some Composers From This Period: Johann Sebastian Bach, Georg Frideric Handel, Antonio Vivaldi

Classical (1750/1775­ – 1820)­ Classical era music was more simple/cleaner than Baroque music, and focused more on the melody. Dynamics (the change in volume) were important. The woodwind section of the orchestra was added during this period.

Some Composers From This Period: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig Van Beethoven*, Franz Joseph Hayden

*Beethoven is considered to be a bridge between the Classical and the Romantic periods

Romantic (1820 – ­1910)­ Romantic pieces are know for being very expressive and emotional. The orchestra saw much growth in this period with the expansion of the woodwind and brass section.

Some Composers From This Period: Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt, Richard Wagner, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Brahms

CELEBRATE

Find some classical music to listen to alone or with friends and family. If there is a concert you can go to, go with a few friends or family. If you want to learn how to play an instrument, then go out and find a place to do so. You can learn from various resources such as books, websites, or find a private tutor in your area. If you’re in school, then consider taking band or joining a music club. There are plenty of ways to celebrate! Use #ClassicalMusicMonth to post on social media.

Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins - Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula#ClassicalMusicMonth
Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins – Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula
Gregorian Chant for Meditation Chant Music for the Soul#ClassicalMusicMonth
Gregorian Chant for Meditation Chant Music for the Soul
Johann Sebastian Bach (Remastered)#ClassicalMusicMonth
Johann Sebastian Bach (Remastered)
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart#ClassicalMusicMonth
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Frédéric Chopin: Nocturne in E-Flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2#ClassicalMusicMonth
Frédéric Chopin: Nocturne in E-Flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2
Best of Franz Liszt - 8D Binaural Sound (8D Binaural Sound - Music Therapy)#ClassicalMusicMonth
Best of Franz Liszt – 8D Binaural Sound (8D Binaural Sound – Music Therapy)
Swan Lake - Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (8D Binaural Sound - Music Therapy)#ClassicalMusicMonth
Swan Lake – Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (8D Binaural Sound – Music Therapy)
The Best of Johannes Brahms#ClassicalMusicMonth
The Best of Johannes Brahms

NATIONAL ELEPHANT APPRECIATION DAY

Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

If you didn’t remember September 22 is National Elephant Appreciation Day, it’s fine. We’re sure the elephant probably didn’t forget.

People of all ages are fascinated by elephants. Discover some interesting facts about them to celebrate with us! 

These captivating and social animals live between 60 to 70 years. Like humans, elephants develop remarkably close family bonds. Two species, the African Savannah and Asian elephant, exist. However, recently scientists suggested that the African Forest elephant is also a unique species and not a subspecies. 

Each day, poachers kill approximately 100 elephants for their ivory, meat, bones, and skin. 

These pachyderms are closely related to rhinoceroses and hippos. In fact, pachyderm describes thick-skinned animals with hooves or nails similar to hooves. While the African elephants outgrow the Asian, both hold the prize for the largest land mammal on earth. However, there are some differences between the species, though. 

Differences Between African & Asian Elephants:

  • The African elephant grows larger ears.
  • In the Asian species, only the male grows tusks. However, in the African, both male and female elephants grow tusks.
  • One of the things that fascinate us about elephants is their trunk. It’s super sensitive. At the end, a small finger-like appendage grows. The appendage, also known as a lobe, gives elephants the ability to pick up small twigs, bits of grass and other items. On the Asian elephant, the lobe grows at the top tip of the trunk. However, the African elephant grows a lobe at the top and bottom, giving it extra pinching dexterity. 
  • Both species live in herds. The herds are led primarily by a matriarch and comprised of sisters, daughters and their young. As the males grow, they move off on their own. Asian herds tend to be smaller than the African herds.
  • While both species are herbivores, their diets vary based on the available habitat. 

Elephants are spirited and playful animals. Have you ever seen them frolic in the water?  And they will defend their own with their mighty tusks. Whether foraging for food or digging a mud hole, their tusks are vital for survival. Since hunters value the ivory more than the life of the elephant, they endanger the continued existence of these majestic animals. 

Do elephants never forget? Well, studies have determined that elephants have excellent memories. They remember vital locations over large areas of land. Elephants also show recognition of faces and other elephants even after a long time has passed. And while we may be forgetful from time to time, we don’t recommend forgetting this holiday!

NATIONAL ELEPHANT APPRECIATION DAY HISTORY

National Elephant Appreciation Day originated in 1996 to raise awareness concerning the plight of elephants. 

The word “pachyderm” is often used in reference to an elephant. However, the elephant isn’t the only pachyderm in the world. The obsolete term was once a classification of animals which also included hippopotamuses, rhinoceroses, pigs, and tapirs.

Elephants do sleep standing up, though not all the time. Wild elephants will spend more time sleeping standing up than their captive relatives.

Explore More…

National Wildlife Day

National Urban Wildlife Refuge Day

National Wildlife Conservation Day

National Endangered Species Day

World Lion Day

National Monkey Day

National Pig Day

National Elephant Day

National Dolphin Day

National Wildlife Week

World Wildlife Day

National American Eagle Day

Save the Eagles Day

National Panda Day

International Red Panda Day

National Zoo Lovers Day

National Zoo and Aquarium Month

HOW TO OBSERVE ELEPHANT APPRECIATION DAY

Don’t forget to celebrate the Elephant on September 22nd! Show your appreciation today by visiting the elephants at your local zoo. Get involved. Learn about conservation and eliminating poaching.

Read up about elephants. We suggest The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony or Love, Live and Elephants: An African Love Story by Daphne Sheldrick. You could also read Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss or any of the Babar stories by Jean de Brunhoff.

Documentaries bring the life of the elephant into our living rooms. Watch Elephant directed by Mark Linfield or When Elephants Were Young directed by Patricia Sims.

Use #ElephantAppreciationDay to post on social media.

The Jungle Book Colonel Hati's March
See Colonel Hati’s March
Dumbo #ElephantAppreciationDay
Dumbo
Horton Hears A Who movie #ElephantAppreciationDay
Horton Hears A Who
ZQQLITE Solar Elephant Statue Lights Outdoor Garden Decoration, Elephant Statue with Solar...#ElephantAppreciationDay
ZQQLITE Solar Elephant Statue Lights Outdoor Garden Decoration, Elephant Statue with Solar…
Lambs & Ivy Jungle Safari Gray Plush Elephant Stuffed Animal Toy Plushie - Jett#ElephantAppreciationDay
Lambs & Ivy Jungle Safari Gray Plush Elephant Stuffed Animal Toy Plushie – Jett
4.2 lbs Elephant Weighted Stuffed Animals, 24" Weighted Elephant Plush Toy Weighted Plush Animal Throws Pillows Gifts for Kids & Adults(Gray)#ElephantAppreciationDay
4.2 lbs Elephant Weighted Stuffed Animals, 24″ Weighted Elephant Plush Toy Weighted Plush Animal Throws Pillows Gifts for Kids & Adults(Gray)