Category nuts

NATIONAL MACADAMIA NUT DAY

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National Macadamia Nut Day on September 4th recognizes a delicious nut found in many baked goods and desserts.

Delectable macadamia nuts have a creamy, buttery taste. These nuts add a subtle richness to everything they grace. Also versatile, macadamia nuts originated in Australia. They were named for the physician and chemist, John Macadam, who discovered them. Macadam also pursued furthering the cultivation of the tree in Australia making it more abundant.  

Similar to large evergreens, the macadamia tree grows between 30 and 40 feet high. Although they are native to Australia, most of today’s world supply grows in Hawaii. Growers first began cultivating macadamia trees in Hawaii in 1921. Indonesia, South Africa, and California also grow this delicious nut commercially. 

365 by Whole Foods Market, Roasted And Salted Macadamia Nuts, 8 Ounce
365 by Whole Foods Market, Roasted And Salted Macadamia Nuts, 8 Ounce
Mauna Loa Premium Hawaiian Roasted Macadamia Nuts, Sea Salt Flavor, 8 Oz
Mauna Loa Premium Hawaiian Roasted Macadamia Nuts, Sea Salt Flavor, 8 Oz
NOW Foods, Macadamia Nuts, Dry Roasted with Sea Salt, Source of Fiber, Gluten-Free and Certified Non-GMO, 9-Ounce (Packaging May Vary)
NOW Foods, Macadamia Nuts, Dry Roasted with Sea Salt, Source of Fiber, Gluten-Free and Certified Non-GMO, 9-Ounce (Packaging May Vary)
Macadamia Nuts | MacFarms Dry Roasted Macadamia Nuts 24 OZ (1 Pack) - Premium Roasted Nuts with Sea Salt Fresh From Hawaii, Sea Salt Flavored Healthy Snack
Macadamia Nuts | MacFarms Dry Roasted Macadamia Nuts 24 OZ (1 Pack) – Premium Roasted Nuts with Sea Salt Fresh From Hawaii, Sea Salt Flavored Healthy Snack

Like many nuts, macadamia may be eaten raw or roasted. Bakers particularly like to use them in baked goods, such as cookies. They pair exceptionally well with chocolate, too.

Since the macadamia is nutrient-rich, they are known for their health benefits. Being in the nut family has its benefits, too! Macadamias are a valuable source of energy, high in dietary fiber, gluten-free, high in mono-unsaturated fat. They also provide an excellent source of minerals and contain many essential B-complex vitamins. 

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalMacadamiaNutDay

Whether you seek a healthy snack or satisfaction for a sweet tooth, this nut has you covered. Try a new recipe. Grab a handful of macadamia nuts for a snack at your desk or bake them into a batch of cookies. Add some to your salad or mix them in with popcorn while watching a movie. Share your ideas, celebrations and more by using #MacadamiaNutDay to post on social media.

GRAB SOME NUTS DAY

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There are many “nut” days throughout the year, but August 3rd embraces them all. It’s National Grab Some Nuts Day!

Defining a nut is tricky. Though botanically an almond and cashew aren’t considered nuts, once they’re in the can, it’s hard to tell the difference. The same goes for walnuts and peanuts, even though they have the word “nut” in their names. Despite the confusion, these nuts, legumes, seeds, and drupes continue to find their way into our daily diets. Whether we add them to salads or into our baking, we love nuts. We’re nutty for nuts!

Depending on the kind, they add necessary good fats to our diets. They’re also full of minerals and nutrients we might otherwise be missing. In the right quantities, they improve our health and make things taste better, too. There’s nothing too nutty about that.

Nature's Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs – Mixed Nuts, Heart Healthy Nuts, Omega-3 Rich, Cranberries, Pumpkin Seeds, Perfect For The Entire Family – 28.8 Oz Bag (24 Individual Servings)
Nature’s Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs – Mixed Nuts, Heart Healthy Nuts, Omega-3 Rich, Cranberries, Pumpkin Seeds, Perfect For The Entire Family – 28.8 Oz Bag (24 Individual Servings)
Power Up Trail Mix Gourmet Nut Bag, Mega Omega, 14 Ounce
Power Up Trail Mix Gourmet Nut Bag, Mega Omega, 14 Ounce
PLANTERS Variety Packs (Salted Cashews, Salted Peanuts & Honey Roasted Peanuts), 36 Packs - Individual Bags of On-the-Go Nut Snacks
PLANTERS Variety Packs (Salted Cashews, Salted Peanuts & Honey Roasted Peanuts), 36 Packs – Individual Bags of On-the-Go Nut Snacks
Fisher Snack Oven Roasted Never Fried Deluxe Mixed Nuts, 24 Ounces, Almonds, Cashews, Pecans, Pistachios, Made With Sea Salt, Non-GMO, No Oils, Artificial Ingredients or Preservatives
Fisher Snack Oven Roasted Never Fried Deluxe Mixed Nuts, 24 Ounces, Almonds, Cashews, Pecans, Pistachios, Made With Sea Salt, Non-GMO, No Oils, Artificial Ingredients or Preservatives

These little bountiful nuggets contain beneficial nutrients, have a long shelf life, and can be quite portable. They add a nice crunch to snacks and desserts as well as satisfying meals. National Grab Some Nuts Day might seem a little squirrelly, but then again it’s the right time of year for it. Go nuts and grab a few or a lot!

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalGrabSomeNutsDay

Do not forget to grab a handful of your favorite nuts to snack on today! Better yet, get baking. Nuts add texture and flavor to baked goods. Don’t forget the savory dishes. Try adding almonds to salads, peanuts to stirfry or create a crust from crushed pecans for a pork roast.

Try my Keto Breaded Chicken for an awesome addition to salads or just use it for fried chicken. No matter how you celebrate, the day encourages sharing by using #NationalGrabSomeNutsDay on social media. 

PLANTERS Deluxe Salted Whole Cashews, Party Snacks, Plant-Based Protein 18.25oz (1 Cannister)
PLANTERS Deluxe Salted Whole Cashews, Party Snacks, Plant-Based Protein 18.25oz (1 Cannister)
PLANTERS NUT-rition Wholesome Nut Mix, 7.5 oz Box (Contains 7 Individual Pouches) - Cashews, Almonds and Macadamias Snack Mix - No Artificial Flavors, No Artificial Colors, No Preservatives - Kosher
PLANTERS NUT-rition Wholesome Nut Mix, 7.5 oz Box (Contains 7 Individual Pouches) – Cashews, Almonds and Macadamias Snack Mix – No Artificial Flavors, No Artificial Colors, No Preservatives – Kosher
Wonderful Pistachios, No Shells, Roasted & Salted Nuts, 0.75oz (Pack of 9)
Wonderful Pistachios, No Shells, Roasted & Salted Nuts, 0.75oz (Pack of 9)
PLANTERS Salted Cocktail Peanuts, Party Snacks, Plant-Based Protein, 2.19 lb Jar
PLANTERS Salted Cocktail Peanuts, Party Snacks, Plant-Based Protein, 2.19 lb Jar

NATIONAL SUNFLOWER DAY

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Celebrating happiness is what we do. So, it makes perfect sense to celebrate the first Saturday in August as National Sunflower Day. Join us all day as we spread joy about the happiest flower on earth.

Sunflowers are said to be a symbol of adoration, loyalty, and longevity. Their bright yellow color is a sign of happiness, friendship, and intelligence. Much like the sun, sunflowers mirror vibrancy and give off an energy of life. National Sunflower Day reminds us to show our inner sunshine, while taking the opportunity to share one of the earth’s most beautiful flowers.

Sending Sunshine Gifts for Women, Care Package for Women, 10 Pcs Sunflower Gifts, Get Well Soon Gifts Basket, Unique Birthday Gifts Box with Inspirational Blanket Candle for Women, Her, Mom, Wife#NationalSunflowerDay
Sending Sunshine Gifts for Women, Care Package for Women, 10 Pcs Sunflower Gifts, Get Well Soon Gifts Basket, Unique Birthday Gifts Box with Inspirational Blanket Candle for Women, Her, Mom, Wife

Historically, sunflowers have been around since about 1000 BC. Native Americans used sunflowers as a valuable food source, oil, paint, textile, and during ceremonies. Interestingly, some archaeologists believe sunflowers may have been cultivated before corn. Today, sunflowers are still being used as a source of food, oils, and beauty treatments.

7 Sunflower Uses

  1. Cooking oil
  2. Sunflower seeds
  3. Salad mixes
  4. Tea
  5. Medicinal purposes
  6. Skin care
  7. Crafts

The U.S. is a massive producer of sunflowers. In fact, this bright, beautiful flower is a major crop in both North Dakota and South Dakota. In 2022, North Dakota produced 762 billion pounds of sunflowers. With the average height of a sunflower being five to six feet tall, a sunflower head can grow bigger than an human head. As the weight of the sunflower head becomes heavy, it begins to fall forward causing the petals to fall off. Shortly after the petals fall off, harvest begins on the sunflower. On average, one sunflower can produce up to 2,000 sunflower seeds per head!

Sunny Days

Sunflowers are a unique flower. Though many flowers are known to look for the sun for nutrients, the size of the sunflower presents an opportunity to visually see how it follows the sun movements throughout the day. During early mornings, sunflowers can be seen sort of in a sleep position slightly bent downwards. However, as the sun begins to shine, they slowly find the bright sun to face their growing day. Interestingly, the sunflower tends to face east, avoiding the hot sun. Scientists assume it is a natural defense of the sunflower to avoid the hot sun. Sunflower enthusiasts assume their perfect flower is not only the happiest flower, but also the most intelligent, too.

August is considered the peak growing season for sunflowers, which is why National Sunflower Day is a perfect time to experience the beauty of vast fields of golden awe. Brilliant fields of yellow flowers welcoming the morning sun can be found throughout North Dakota. In fact, seeing fields of sunflowers blanket the earth will lift the spirits of those witnessing this amazing wonder of breathtaking beauty.

FOUNDING NATIONAL SUNFLOWER DAY

The National Sunflower Association and North Dakota Tourism introduced the idea to create National Sunflower Day in 2022. After forming a partnership, National Sunflower Day became reality in 2023. Each year on the first Saturday in August, we intend to spread joy about the happiest flower on earth during National Sunflower Day. This collaboration is a special effort help spread the word about the agricultural giant North Dakota is in growing sunflowers, and especially to promote happiness.

A partnership between the National Sunflower Association and North Dakota Tourism gives anyone who visits the state a chance to see the thousands of acres of fields every year in late summer with their Sunflower Map. This map includes exact coordinates of sunflower fields across the state and weekly updates from the farmers who cultivate them on how the bloom is going. Visitors can time their visits when the fields are at their most beautiful. Some of the fields even include a sunflower mailbox full of free and locally grown and processed sunflower seeds.

FOLLOW THE SUN

  1. Take a drive to view fields of sunflowers to see their true beauty in mass.
  2. Give a bouquet of sunflowers to a friend to brighten their day.
  3. Add sunflower petals and seeds to your salad.
  4. Plan a road trip to North Dakota in August and coordinate places to stop to visit sunflower fields and get updates from local farmers who cultivate sunflowers.
  5. Share your photos on sunflowers on social media using #NationalSunflowerDay.

Alternating in August

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August is a month of transition, marked by a blend of summer’s lingering warmth and the impending arrival of fall. As families prepare for the back-to-school season, August provides a unique opportunity to celebrate a variety of national days that capture the essence of this transitional period. From quirky observances to meaningful commemorations, the month offers a diverse palette of events that encourage reflection, creativity, and enjoyment.

One of the standout features of August is its rich array of national days that highlight different aspects of life. For instance, National Watermelon Day on August 3 invites families to gather and enjoy this refreshing fruit, perfect for summer picnics. It serves as a reminder of the joys of summer, encouraging people to take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures. Similarly, National Relaxation Day on August 15 prompts individuals to take a break from their busy schedules, emphasizing the importance of self-care and mental well-being.

As August unfolds, the month presents opportunities for community engagement and awareness. National Dog Day on August 26 celebrates our furry companions and raises awareness about the importance of adopting pets from shelters. This day not only honors the bond between humans and dogs but also encourages responsible pet ownership and the significance of animal welfare. Engaging in activities such as dog walks or adoption events can foster community spirit and compassion.

In addition to these celebrations, August is also a time for personal growth and creativity. National Craft Month encourages individuals to explore their artistic sides, whether through painting, knitting, or DIY projects. This observance highlights the therapeutic benefits of crafting, promoting mindfulness and relaxation. By dedicating time to creative pursuits, individuals can find joy in the process of making, which can be particularly fulfilling as summer draws to a close.

Celebrating All August

National Dog Month
Black Business Month
Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
Family Fun Month
Get ready for Kindergarten Month
Happiness Happens Month
International Peace Month
MedicAlert Awareness Month
Motorsports Awareness Month
National Back to School Month
National Brownies at Brunch Month
National Catfish Month
National Crayon Collection Month
National Eye Exam Month
National Goat Cheese Month
National Golf Month
National Hair Loss Awareness Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
National Panini Month
National Sandwich Month
National Water Quality Month
National Wellness Month
Romance Awareness Month
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month                                                                  The Allure of August’s Birthstone: Peridot

August’s traditional birth flowers are the gladiolus (symbolizing strength and sincerity) and the poppy (rest and imagination); the birthstone is peridot, a bright green gem associated with vitality and protection; zodiac signs for August are Leo (July 23–August 22), noted for confidence and warmth, and Virgo (August 23–September 22), known for practicality and attention to detail.

Famous birthdays in August:
– August 4 — Barack Obama 
– August 4 — Meghan Markle 
– August 5 — Neil Armstrong 
– August 6 — Lucille Ball 
– August 7 — Charlize Theron 
– August 9 — Whitney Houston 
– August 11 — Chris Hemsworth 
– August 16 — Madonna 
– August 17 — Robert De Niro 
– August 23 — Kobe Bryant 
– August 29 — Michael Jackson

Ultimately, August’s alternating themes of celebration and reflection create a dynamic atmosphere for individuals and families alike. As the month progresses, it serves as a bridge between the carefree days of summer and the structured routine of fall. By participating in the various national days, people can not only enjoy the present but also prepare for the changes that lie ahead, making August a month of both fun and meaningful experiences.