ROMANCE AWARENESS MONTH

July 31, 2026July 16, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 3 Comments

February isn’t the only romantic month on the calendar. Check your relationship’s pulse during Romance Awareness in August. If it needs a jump start, there are lots of ways to put some spark back into the relationship.

Add excitement by planning the unexpected. Surprise your significant other with a date night with only a few clues as to the destination. None of it needs to be expensive or elaborate, but making an effort to make the evening fun, spontaneous and memorable will be worthwhile. Maybe it’s a note clipped to a single flower saying you’ll pick her up at 7 PM and to wear sandals. It ends up with a picnic on the beach; or it could be a text to him that you’re in the mood for takeout, be ready in an hour – a three-hour road trip later and you’re at the nearest drive-in theater eating hot wings under the stars.

Life Sutra – Couple Reconnect Game – Couples Game for Married Couples – 200 Couples Conversation Cards – Speak Your Love Language – Card Game for Couples – Designed by an American Psychologist

Romantic Couples Gift - Fun & Adventurous Date Night Box - Scratch Off Card Game with Exciting Date Ideas for Couple: Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Newlywed, Wife or Husband. — Life Sutra – Couple Reconnect Game – Couples Game for Married Couples – 200 Couples Conversation Cards – Speak Your Love Language – Card Game for Couples – Designed by an American Psychologist

The simple things mean so much more than elaborate gifts. A wrapped mint slipped into a pocket with an encouraging message on the day of big presentation sends waves of support and love when it’s needed most. Sharing our successes with those we love is another way of enhancing the romance. Toast each other’s success and bask in the glow.

Spend quiet time with each other. Read books, do chores, sleep. Just be. Sometimes, just being together in the same room generates energy that may have been missing.

Cultivate activities as a couple you enjoy doing together. Whether you enjoy games, biking, sports, antiquing, travel, music or haven’t discovered your interest yet, get out there and explore.

Visit the SMIRLY Store
4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars 16,340Reviews
SMIRLY Charcuterie Boards Gift Set: Large Charcuterie Board Set, Bamboo Cheese Board Set - Unique Mothers Day Gifts for Mom - House Warming Gifts New Home, Wedding Gifts for Couple, Bridal Shower Gift — Visit the SMIRLY Store
4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars 16,340Reviews
SMIRLY Charcuterie Boards Gift Set: Large Charcuterie Board Set, Bamboo Cheese Board Set – Unique Mothers Day Gifts for Mom – House Warming Gifts New Home, Wedding Gifts for Couple, Bridal Shower Gift

HISTORY

Celebrate Romance founder, Eileen Buchheim, created Romance Awareness Month to encourage couples to improve their relationships through romance all year long.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE

Being aware of and adding more romance into your relationship will be a win-win for both you and your significant other. Passion has always been an essential part of relationships. Sometimes it is the little things that make a big difference, such as; holding hands, a shoulder rub, a flower, making dinner together, playing your favorite song, leaving a personal note, or watching a movie together.

Romance Awareness Month is also a great time to catch up on some reading with the wide selection of romance novels that are available.

If posting on social media use #RomanceAwarenessMonth.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Jen’s Perspective Magazine for more special times..

The Allure of August’s Birthstone: Peridot

July 31, 2026July 31, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

August’s birthstone, peridot, captivates with its vibrant green hues and rich history, embodying a romanticism that resonates through the ages. Known for its unique olive to lime shades, peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color, albeit in varying intensities. This striking gem has been cherished since ancient times, often associated with light and clarity, giving it a celestial quality that enchants lovers and collectors alike. The romantic essence of peridot is not just in its color but also in the myriad of meanings and legends that surround it, making it a popular choice for romantic gifts.

In ancient civilizations, peridot was often referred to as the “gem of the sun.” The Egyptians believed it symbolized the sun’s light, providing protection and strength. They adorned their jewelry with this gem, associating it with the goddess of fertility, Isis. This connection to divine power and protection has led many to regard peridot as a stone that brings harmony and balance to relationships. The romantic symbolism of peridot extends beyond its historical significance; it is often seen as a stone of love, believed to inspire feelings of affection and compassion in romantic partnerships.

The symbolism of peridot is further enhanced by its connections to renewal and growth. The stone is said to bring abundance and prosperity to its wearer, making it an appropriate gift for anniversaries and celebrations of love. Its vibrant green hue is reminiscent of lush landscapes and new beginnings, allowing lovers to reflect on the growth of their relationships. This association with renewal makes peridot a fitting stone for couples looking to reinvigorate their bond, inviting fresh energy into their lives together.

In addition to its romantic symbolism, peridot is also linked to emotional healing. It is believed to dispel negative energy and promote positivity, making it a powerful talisman for relationships. Many couples choose peridot not only for its beauty but also for its reputed ability to enhance emotional well-being. This dual nature—being both a beautiful adornment and a source of emotional strength—positions peridot as an ideal gemstone for those navigating the complexities of love.

As we embrace the beauty of peridot, it becomes clear that this august birthstone is more than just a gem; it is a vibrant symbol of love, renewal, and protection. Whether given as a gift or worn as a personal talisman, peridot captures the essence of romanticism, making it a timeless choice for those wishing to celebrate their love. Its rich history and multifaceted symbolism ensure that it will remain a cherished stone for generations to come, echoing the enduring nature of love itself.

NATIONAL ABSINTHE DAY

March 4, 2026March 3, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

March 5th is also known as National Absinthe Day. This day is for those who are 21 years or older to celebrate a drink called absinthe.

Often mistaken for a liqueur, it is truly a spirit because it isn’t sweetened. It belongs to the vodkas, gins, and whiskeys when categorizing absinthe.

The spirit is made by infusing wormwood, fennel, anise, and other herbs into alcohol through distillation. Pierre Ordinaire, a French doctor, is credited with the creation of absinthe. He developed and prescribed the elixir in the early 19th century as a cure for many illnesses.

It has a strong licorice flavor to it and has a high alcohol content. The spirit is often served with ice, a sugar cube placed on a slotted spoon over the glass, and water poured over the sugar.

Butterfly Absinthe Iron Painting Creativity Tin Sign Notice Personality Retro Wall Poster Hotel Bar Room Garage Club Gift#NationalAbsintheDay — Absinthe Vintage Tin Sign Logo 12 8 inches Advertising Eye-Catching Wall Decoration

Also known as the Green Fairy, the Green Goddess, or the Green Lady, the drink was popular with artists and writers. It was also once rumored to have hallucinogenic effects. Just as it was gaining popularity, as the century was coming to a close, its reputation took some severe blows.

Many blamed the Green Lady for causing madness, seizures, and low morality, among other ills of society. One of the final blows was a scandal in 1905 involving a French laborer who had spent the day drinking. His drink of choice was absinthe. Later that day, he murdered his children and pregnant wife.

France banned the drink, and other countries soon followed. In the United States and around the world, the ban has since been lifted.

Studies have proven there is nothing hallucinogenic about the drink. Absinthe does have a higher alcohol content than other spirits, so keeping that in mind is important to drink responsibly.

There is a cameo appearance in TNT’s hit series The Alienist season 2. When our lead character Lazlo Crysler seeks a second opinion from another alienist. It caught my attention due to the ritual with sugar cubes as shown in the scene.

This is a gothic crime drama not for the faint of heart or the squeamish. It gives a more detailed account of catching criminals, as both profiling and forensic sciences are being invented. Its popularity has a season 3 renewal in its future, as it paves the way for how we fight modern criminality, as seen on shows like Criminal Minds, and CSI.

NATIONAL ABSINTHE DAY HISTORY

Why March 5th? It’s a nod to Pernod, and the day the approval of their final label for Pernod Fils Absinthe became official in 2013.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAbsintheDay

Celebrate the day by learning more about absinthe. Whether you have a taste, mix up a cocktail or watch a documentary, it will be a worthy endeavor.

If you prefer to read up on your absinthe mixology, we found a few books you might want to page through.
Pub owners host a cocktail tasting featuring the Green Goddess. Include history, tantalizing tidbits, and famous dancers partners of the Green Lady.
Try making your own absinthe cocktail to celebrate.
Discover more about plants that go into making spirits.

Have some absinthe (Remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive) and use #NationalAbsintheDay to post on social media.

Premium Absinthe Spoons Glasses Set | 2x Absinthe Glasses | 2x Absinthe Spoons | 1x Absinthe Sugar Cubes | 1x Drinking instructions card for the Absinthe ritual#NationalAbsintheDay — Premium Absinthe Spoons Glasses Set | 2x Absinthe Glasses | 2x Absinthe Spoons | 1x Absinthe Sugar Cubes | 1x Drinking instructions card for the Absinthe ritual

Absinthe Tin Sign Wall Metal Retro Craft Art Painting Iron Plate Office Garden Living Room Decoration Warning Poster 12x8 Inches#NationalAbsintheDay — Premium Absinthe Spoons Glasses Set | 2x Absinthe Glasses | 2x Absinthe Spoons | 1x Absinthe Sugar Cubes | 1x Drinking instructions card for the Absinthe ritual

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY

January 1, 2026January 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

National Science Fiction Day promotes the celebration of science fiction as a genre, its creators, history, and various media, too. On January 2nd annually, millions of science fiction fans across the United States read and watch their favorites in science fiction.

The date of the celebration commemorates the birth of famed science fiction writer Isaac Asimov. An American author and Boston University professor of biochemistry, Isaac Asimov was born Isaak Yudovich Ozimov on January 2, 1920. He is best known for his works of science fiction and his popular science books. Isaac Asimov, whose works are followed by many, died on April 6, 1992.

National Science Fiction Day is recognized by the Hallmark Channel and the Scholastic Corporation.

Considered a master of hard science fiction, Asimov, along with Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke, was considered one of the “Big Three” science-fiction writers during his lifetime. Many regard the Foundation Series as Asimov’s most outstanding piece. His other major series are the Galactic Empire Series and the Robot Series.

Some of the successful television shows recognized by science fiction fans include Star Trek-The Next Generation, The X-Files, Battlestar Galactica, Doctor Who, and The Twilight Zone.

As we look back at some older science fiction in our current technology-infused world, how close do the writers come to imaging our futures? Long before Asimov created his first work, humans imagined machines that allowed them to soar like birds. Another man, Leonardo Di Vinci, looked to the future, too. He designed contraptions worthy of the science fiction in his time.

Science fiction impacts life in ways we may not even consider – even those who don’t enjoy reading or watching science fiction.

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY HISTORY

Since at least 2011, science fiction lovers have been honoring Isaac Asimov and other science fiction contributors. In 2013, asimovs.com published a guest editorial by Ed Finn. The writer talks about doomsday predictions while also looking toward the future – all moving toward the true meaning of National Science Fiction Day. Read the complete article, Celebrate National Science Fiction Day by Learning to Live in the Future.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ScienceFictionDay

The day encourages reading or watching science fiction. However, consider exploring science fiction in other ways. For example:

Introduce science fiction to an entirely new generation. Offer to read excerpts from your favorite science fiction author to a youth group at a library.
Explore the authors of science fiction you’ve never read before.
Study the history of science fiction and how it has impacted modern culture.
Share your favorite science fiction story or character.

Use #ScienceFictionDay to post on social media.

Red Rising#ScienceFictionDay — Red Rising

Station Eleven: A Novel (National Book Award Finalist)#ScienceFictionDay — Red Rising

NATIONAL AUTHOR’S DAY

October 31, 2025October 24, 2025Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

Every year on November 1, millions of people celebrate authors and the books that they write on National Author’s Day.

Books have a mind of their own. They take time to develop, research, draft, edit, revise, and rewrite. The stories we devour and indulge in as we drift off to sleep, travel, or allow to collect dust on several flat surfaces in our homes may take years to reach a publisher. We may have only one favorite author or many collected works with which we cannot part. Whether we prefer fiction, non-fiction, or a mix of both, authors have been telling stories to fill our heads for thousands of years.

Authors keep a record of history through their stories. They mark time through their observations. Their tales create remarkable memories of place, sealing it between the pages of the binding. Their books allow us to keep coming back to visit again and again.

After her grandmother’s death in 1968, Sue Cole promoted the observance of National Authors Day. She urged people to write a note to their favorite author on November 1, to “brighten up the sometimes lonely business of being a writer.” She also suggested flying the American flag as another way of showing appreciation for the writers who have created American literature.

Some of my favorite Authors…

NATIONAL AUTHOR’S DAY HISTORY

In 1928, Nellie Verne Burt McPherson, president of the Bement, Illinois Women’s Club, had an idea of setting aside a day to celebrate American authors. McPherson was a teacher, and throughout her life, an avid reader. While she was recuperating in the hospital during World War I, she wrote a fan letter to fiction writer, Irving Bacheller. She told him how much she enjoyed reading his story Eben Holden’s Last Day A’ Fishin.

Upon receiving her letter, Bacheller sent her an autographed copy of another story. It was then that McPherson realized she would never be able to thank him adequately for his gift. McPherson decided to show her appreciation by submitting an idea for a National Author’s Day to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. In May of 1929, the club endorsed a resolution for National Author’s Day to be observed honoring American writers. The United States Department of Commerce recognized this day in 1949.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAuthorsDay

Purchase some books by your favorite author to support them. Share your favorite novels online while encouraging an aspiring author. Use #NationalAuthorsDay to post on social media.

Jen's Perspective Blog

Love, laugh, live! Life to the fullest.

Tag HISTORICAL

NATIONAL AUTHOR’S DAY

NATIONAL AUTHOR’S DAY HISTORY

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAuthorsDay

Like this:

Explore More…

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

NATIONAL ABSINTHE DAY HISTORY

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAbsintheDay

Share this:

Like this:

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY HISTORY

HOW TO OBSERVE #ScienceFictionDay

Share this:

Like this:

NATIONAL AUTHOR’S DAY HISTORY

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAuthorsDay

Share this:

Like this: