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NATIONAL TV DINNER DAY

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National TV Dinner Day is observed annually on September 10th.  In 1953, C.A. Swanson & Sons changed the prepackaged meal business forever. Introducing the TV Dinner revolutionized frozen food.

In 1962, Swanson stopped using the name TV Dinner. However, in the United States, the term remains synonymous with any prepackaged dinner purchased frozen from a store and heated at home.

Amazon Basics Classic TV Dinner Folding Tray with Storage Rack, Natural - Set of 4 Trays
Amazon Basics Classic TV Dinner Folding Tray with Storage Rack, Natural – Set of 4 Trays
Casual Home 5 Piece Tray Table Set, Espresso
Casual Home 5 Piece Tray Table Set, Espresso
Maarch Folding TV Tray Table, Adjustable TV Dinner Table, Foldable Tray Table for Eating and Laptops, Wall Mountable, Black
Maarch Folding TV Tray Table, Adjustable TV Dinner Table, Foldable Tray Table for Eating and Laptops, Wall Mountable, Black
HUANUO Adjustable TV Trays - TV Tray Tables on Bed & Sofa, Adjustable Laptop Table as TV Food Tray, Work Tray with 6 Heights & 3 Tilt Angles Adjustable (2 Pack)
HUANUO Adjustable TV Trays – TV Tray Tables on Bed & Sofa, Adjustable Laptop Table as TV Food Tray, Work Tray with 6 Heights & 3 Tilt Angles Adjustable (2 Pack)

The first Swanson TV Dinner consisted of a Thanksgiving meal of turkey, cornbread dressing, peas, and sweet potatoes. Originally, Swansons made the tray of aluminum. They separated each food item into individual compartments, too. At home, the cook heated the dinner in the oven. The cooking time was usually 25 minutes. Today, nearly all frozen food trays can be cooked in the microwave or a conventional oven. 

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When Swanson’s first sold TV dinners, they priced them at 98 cents. In the first year, production estimates reached 5,000 dinners. To their surprise, Swanson far exceeded that amount. In the first year, they sold more than 10 million of them.

TV Dinner Facts
  • 1960 – Swanson added desserts to a new four-compartment tray.
  • 1964 – Night Hawk name originated from the Night Hawk steak houses that operated in Austin, Texas, from 1939 through 1994. The original diners were open all night, catering to the late-night crowd. The restaurants produced the first frozen Night Hawk TV dinner in 1964.
  • 1969 – The first TV breakfasts were marketed. Great Starts Breakfasts and breakfast sandwiches followed later.
  • 1973 – Swanson markets the first Hungry-Man dinners. The meals included larger portions of its regular dinner products.
  • 1986 – Microwave-oven safe trays debut on the market. 
  • 1986 – The Smithsonian Institute inducted the original Swanson TV Dinner tray into the Museum of American History.

Much has changed since the original TV Dinner. They also remain a popular choice for a fast and convenient meal, fun to eat in front of the TV!

Looking for something to watch?  Check out some of my favorites here.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalTVDinnerDay

Get out a TV dinner, pop it in the microwave or oven, and enjoy! Use #NationalTVDinnerDay to post on social media.

Paragon Microwave Food Storage Tray Containers - 3 Section/Compartment Divided Plates W/Vented Lid, Set of 6
Paragon Microwave Food Storage Tray Containers – 3 Section/Compartment Divided Plates W/Vented Lid, Set of 6
Ez Prepa [20 Pack] 32oz 3 Compartment Meal Prep Containers with Lids - Bento Box - Plastic - Stackable, Reusable, Microwaveable & Dishwasher Safe
Ez Prepa [20 Pack] 32oz 3 Compartment Meal Prep Containers with Lids – Bento Box – Plastic – Stackable, Reusable, Microwaveable & Dishwasher Safe
Meal Prep Containers - Reusable Plastic Containers with Lids - Disposable Food Containers Meal Prep Bowls - Lunch Containers by Prep Naturals, 30 Pack
Meal Prep Containers – Reusable Plastic Containers with Lids – Disposable Food Containers Meal Prep Bowls – Lunch Containers by Prep Naturals, 30 Pack
Able Life Able Tray Table, Adjustable Bamboo Swivel TV and Laptop Table with Ergonomic Stand Assist Safety Handle, Independent Living Aid
Able Life Able Tray Table, Adjustable Bamboo Swivel TV and Laptop Table

Movie Lists

Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

Curating a movie list is like opening a treasure chest filled with cinematic gems tailored to match the mood and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a spooky thrill with Halloween classics or seeking the warmth of love in a romance film, these lists are designed to enhance your viewing experience. From family-friendly adventures that bring everyone together to the timeless allure of musicals and mysteries that keep you guessing, each list captures the essence of its genre or theme, ensuring there’s something for every type of movie lover.

Celebrations and special occasions also get their own spotlight with themed lists for Valentine’s Day, holidays, and patriotic events, among others. Whether you’re a fan of iconic franchises like Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, or James Bond, or you’re gearing up for a dedicated movie night, these lists offer a curated selection that pays homage to the best of cinema. Dive into the cinematic universe of Marvel heroes, enjoy the epic scores on National Filmscore Day, or explore global cinema for a taste of stories from around the world—these movie lists are your guide to unforgettable movie nights and beyond.

Romance Movie Playlist

Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

Turn off the lights and snuggle up with someone special to share the popcorn. Indulge in some romance with any of these greats that show us how love and romance are done….

Gone With the Wind
Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Olivia de Havilland and Hattie McDaniel star in producer David O. Selznick’s Academy award-winning epic set against the backdrop of the Civil War.
Keira Knightley is luminous in this winning adaptation of Jane Austen's epic love story about five sisters and their search for husbands.
Keira Knightley is luminous in this winning adaptation of Jane Austen’s epic love story about five sisters and their search for husbands.
The story and characters you love come to life in the live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, a cinematic event celebrating one of the most beloved tales ever told.
The story and characters you love come to life in the live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, a cinematic event celebrating one of the most beloved tales ever told.
When a young woman meets an aspiring saxophonist in her father’s record shop in 1950s Harlem, their love ignites a sweeping romance that transcends changing times, geography, and professional success.
When a young woman meets an aspiring saxophonist in her father’s record shop in 1950s Harlem, their love ignites a sweeping romance that transcends changing times, geography, and professional success.
HD. Kenneth Branagh brings the William Shakespeare play to life in this 'spirited' (Variety) adaptation of the classic comedy.
HD. Kenneth Branagh brings the William Shakespeare play to life in this ‘spirited’ (Variety) adaptation of the classic comedy.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Oscar-nominatee Kate Winslet light up the screen as Jack and Rose, the young lovers who find one another on the maiden voyage of the "unsinkable" R.M.S. Titanic.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Oscar-nominatee Kate Winslet light up the screen as Jack and Rose, the young lovers who find one another on the maiden voyage of the “unsinkable” R.M.S. Titanic.
A lonely doctor who once occupied an unusual lakeside home begins exchanging love letters with its newest resident, a frustrated architect.
A lonely doctor who once occupied an unusual lakeside home begins exchanging love letters with its newest resident, a frustrated architect.
A former Secret Service agent takes on the job of bodyguard to a pop singer, whose lifestyle is most unlike a President's.
A former Secret Service agent takes on the job of bodyguard to a pop singer, whose lifestyle is most unlike a President’s.
Based on the landmark Supreme Court case, an interracial couple fights the law that they cannot be recognized as married in the state of Virginia.
Based on the landmark Supreme Court case, an interracial couple fights the law that they cannot be recognized as married in the state of Virginia.
Loner Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) enters Officer Candidate School to become a Navy pilot and in thirteen torturous weeks he learns the importance of discipline, love and friendship.
Loner Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) enters Officer Candidate School to become a Navy pilot and in thirteen torturous weeks he learns the importance of discipline, love and friendship.
An unscrupulous newspaper editor (Cary Grant) uses every dirty trick in the book to stop his ace reporter/ex-wife (Rosalind Russell) from remarrying and moving to Albany. Directed by Howard Hawks.
An unscrupulous newspaper editor (Cary Grant) uses every dirty trick in the book to stop his ace reporter/ex-wife (Rosalind Russell) from remarrying and moving to Albany. Directed by Howard Hawks.
She's a Type-A Manhattan executive with a she-devil reputation, he's her harried assistant - but getting this odd couple married is the only way she won't lose her immigration visa in this deft comedy. With Betty White.
She’s a Type-A Manhattan executive with a she-devil reputation, he’s her harried assistant – but getting this odd couple married is the only way she won’t lose her immigration visa in this deft comedy. With Betty White.
Mahogany Tracy, a young ghetto woman, puts herself through fashion school in the hopes of becoming one of the world's top designers. Her ambition leads her into the lives of people who are determined to get a piece of her long before she can realize her dream
Mahogany
Tracy, a young ghetto woman, puts herself through fashion school in the hopes of becoming one of the world’s top designers. Her ambition leads her into the lives of people who are determined to get a piece of her long before she can realize her dream
"Nobody puts Baby in the corner!" It's the classic romance between an ugly duckling teenybopper and a hunky dance instructor at a Catskills resort in the summer of 1963. You'll have the time of your life!
“Nobody puts Baby in the corner!” It’s the classic romance between an ugly duckling teenybopper and a hunky dance instructor at a Catskills resort in the summer of 1963. You’ll have the time of your life!
American saloon owner in North Africa us drawn into World War II when his lost love turns up.
American saloon owner in North Africa us drawn into World War II when his lost love turns up.
A first-time author, attending the wedding of two old chums, worries that his friends will learn that they are the characters in his frank, tell-all novel. Co-starring Morris Chestnut.
A first-time author, attending the wedding of two old chums, worries that his friends will learn that they are the characters in his frank, tell-all novel. Co-starring Morris Chestnut.

These are some of my favorites but in no way captures my collection. If you have one to add to the list leave it in the comments.

Romance Awareness Month
Be sure to check out Romance Awareness Month

Turkey Tips and Tricks

Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

I have a short cut I’ve used for years. I worked in retail for almost 20 years. Due to health issues, I can now ignore Black Friday hours. As much as I love the deals, having worked retail all those years, I want Amazon to deliver it!

While having to get up for work at 1am…no that’s not a typo. Get up at 1am, be at my store by 3am. While I do not miss those schedules, I learned some tricks that I still use when cooking Thanksgiving dinner. The biggest complaint I hear is how much work it takes, and spending all day in the kitchen. So with that in mind here are my turkey tricks…

Make sure to observe Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day! This is the perfect day get the fridge Thankgiving dinner ready. Even if your not hosting this will come in handy if you’re taking something along too.

If doing a whole turkey, even for just a few do the bigger one. The work to cook a big or small bird is about the same. 10lbs or 22lbs, you still have to defrost, clean, baste, roast, etc. So do the bigger bird and make it worth your time. Turkey’s go on great sales you have leftovers for 3 or more meals is a great investment of your time and money.

Circulon Nonstick Roasting Pan / Roaster with Rack - 17 Inch x 13 Inch, Gray #Thanksgiving
Circulon Nonstick Roasting Pan / Roaster with Rack – 17 Inch x 13 Inch, Gray

Just you 2? If your staying in and still want that traditional turkey? Try a turkey breast. Bone in or a Butterball Turkey breast roast are great alternatives. We like the roasts with both white and dark meat. You can cook traditionally in the oven, but a great time saver is your crockpot. You can add broth and water to keep it moist. Put it in the night before and you’re done. You can even toss potatoes and veggies to make a 1 (crock)pot dinner.

Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel #Thanksgiving
Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel
We do this other times of the year too.

Set it and forget the basting, constant lifting, turning it over… On low with plenty of broth it’s almost fool proof.

Explore More…

Use your extra time to cuddle up together. Enjoy a holiday movie, the football game, or something new. Read a book, or plot your shopping trip if you are doing ‘Black Friday.” However you spend it enjoy the memories you make big or small, they last far beyond the leftovers.

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.”

— William Arthur Ward

Roasted Vegetable Medley

Jensperspectiveblog 3 Comments

This easy side dish not only looks great but tastes so good even the kids eat all these vegetables.

Ingredients

1 Eggplant
1 bag brussel sprout halves ( fresh produce)
2 bell peppers assorted colors
1 pint grape tomatoes (I cut mine in half)
1 purple medium onion in wide strips
Broccoli florets
Cauliflower florets
Baby or chopped carrots
You can add potatoes if you choose

YBMHOME DEEP PROFESSIONAL QUALITY STAINLESS STEEL MIXING BOWL FOR SERVING MIXING COOKING AND BAKING 1173 (1, 12 Quart) by YBM HOME
YBMHOME DEEP PROFESSIONAL QUALITY STAINLESS STEEL MIXING BOWL FOR SERVING MIXING COOKING AND BAKING 1173 (1, 12 Quart)  by YBM HOME

Directions

  1. Chop vegetables. Cut harder things like carrots in smaller pieces to make for more uniform cutting.
  2. Put all cut vegetables except tomatoes in large bowl.  Add 2 Tbsp Olive oil, salt, pepper, 3 Tbsp lemon juice and garlic powder if desired.
  3. Mix well to coat in both oil and seasoning.
  4. Spread evenly,  on a baking sheet.
  5. Place in pre-heated 350° oven for 30 to 45/minutes.
Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker's Half Sheet (2 Pack), Silver by Nordic Ware
Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet (2 Pack), Silver  by Nordic Ware

I also add different seasoning depending who and how I’m serving them.  I add Rosemary when serving with Christmas dinner. These also save a ton of time and you can skip the oil.

AmazonBasics Silicone Baking Mat Sheet, Set of 2 by AmazonBasics
AmazonBasics Silicone Baking Mat Sheet, Set of 2  by AmazonBasics