NATIONAL TV DINNER DAY

September 9, 2026September 8, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

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 — Amazon Basics Classic TV Dinner Folding Tray with Storage Rack, Natural – Set of 4 Trays

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.

Explore more…

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 — Paragon Microwave Food Storage Tray Containers – 3 Section/Compartment Divided Plates W/Vented Lid, Set of 6

NATIONAL SISTERS DAY

August 1, 2026July 31, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 8 Comments

National Sisters Day on the first Sunday in August celebrates the unique bond between sisters. This particular set of siblings embrace moments that make them laugh and cringe. While they don’t always agree, sisters have each other’s backs.

All siblings have the odd argument here and there, but deep down there’s little way around the natural connection between siblings. Even those who don’t have a natural sister sibling know the bonds of sisterhood. Those who forge a relationship with their spouse’s sisters understand. Also, women who support each other through difficult times form a sisterhood.

A sister is like yourself in a different movie,
a movie that stars you in a different life. ~ Deborah Tannen

Sister Gifts from Sister Birthday Gifts for Sister Happy Birthday Sisters Gift from Sister Brother Little Sister Big Sister Gifts for Sister in Law Cool Sister Birthday Gifts Sisters Christmas Gifts

Sister Gifts from Sister, Brother - Funny Gifts for Sister - Mothers Day Gifts for Sister, Birthday Gifts for Sister, Sister Birthday Gifts from Sister - Gifts for Big Sister, Bestie Gifts - Can Glass — Sister Gifts from Sister Birthday Gifts for Sister Happy Birthday Sisters Gift from Sister Brother Little Sister Big Sister Gifts for Sister in Law Cool Sister Birthday Gifts Sisters Christmas Gifts

No two sisters are alike. From love interests to cars, sisters will disagree. And food, cleaning, and children require interventions. However, we rely on each other while privately envying a sister’s style, ability or grace. A sister understands when no one else does, sometimes when even you don’t. So, sister time provides vital healing.

Whether your sisters harrassed you from day one or found you later in life, this day brings you back together. Cherish the memories and make plans to create new ones. Reconnect or patch up any misunderstandings. Sisters are forever.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SISTERS DAY

If you don’t have a sister, celebrate the friendships of sisterhood by having a girls’ night out! Other ways to celebrate sisters include:

Watch a sisterly movie like Sisters, Hannah and Her Sisters, Soul Food, Little Women, Frozen, or The Other Boleyn Girl.
Make memories together by taking a road trip with your sisters.
Get a professional photo taken of you and your sisters to cherish forever.

Post on social media using #NationalSistersDay to encourage others to do the same.

Blanket to Sister Birthday Gifts from Sister Ultra-Soft Flannel Throws Blankets Sister in Law Sisters Warm Quilts for Bed Couch Travel Beach 50 * 60in

NATIONAL GIRLFRIENDS DAY

July 31, 2026June 15, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

On August 1st, National Girlfriends Day encourages women across the U.S. to get together and celebrate their special bond of friendship.

Girlfriends fall into many categories. While many grew up together, others meet through work or college. Still, others share a bond much deeper; sisters and mothers meet the definition of girlfriends, too.

Though these types of relationships cross our minds frequently, we often fail to set aside time to spend with each other. The day promotes the laughter and joys girlfriends bring. Rarely do girlfriends let another go it alone. Not only do they enjoy spending time together, they support each other, too. While laughing and sharing secrets, girlfriends offer advice, and celebrate successes. When it’s time for a glass of wine, a chat over a cup of coffee or to go for a long walk, girlfriends are there.

Friendship is one of the most special connections in life.

Whether we have one or many, girlfriends make life better, fuller, and complete. These are the friends that can make you laugh at life’s silliest things. A girlfriend is who you turn to when life is not so kind. In its simplest form, National Girlfriends Day celebrates the unlimited ways life is better with our girlfriends in it.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL GIRLFRIENDS DAY

The announcement of a National Girlfriends Day was created by mother-daughter authors Kathleen Laing and Elizabeth Butterfield in 2002. They selected September 20th for their celebration along with the publication of their book Girlfriends Getaway.

However, two other claims to National Girlfriends Day on August 1st appear, too. The first is Mistress Susan at savionaire.com who started celebrating in 2003. The second is website team Allie Savarino Kline and Sally Rodgers of sisterwomen.com who started celebrating in 2006.

Explore More…

National Friendship Day
International Friendship Day
National Girlfriends Day
National Boyfriends Day
National Best Friends Day
Words with Friends Day
National Pen Pal Day
Say Something Nice Day
National Make a Friend Day
Send a Card To a Friend Day
Girls Night Out
Girls Night In

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalGirlfriendsDay

Today, let your gal pals know just how much they mean to you and how special they are in your life. Whether you go out for lunch or a drink, reminisce about the past or your future dreams. Give a small token of appreciation or mail a note. Maybe pick up the phone and make plans with your girlfriends. Be sure these relationships don’t become neglected.

Whatever you do, reach out often to stay in touch. Post on social media using #NationalGirlfriendsDay.

Gifts for Women, Mom, Wife, Girlfriend, Sister, Her - Happy Birthday, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Mothers Day Gifts - Lavender Spa Gift Basket Set#NationalGirlfriendsDay — Gifts for Women, Mom, Wife, Girlfriend, Sister, Her – Happy Birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day Gifts – Lavender Spa Gift Basket Set

Sending Sunshine Gifts for Women, Care Package for Women, 9 Pcs Sunflower Gifts, Get Well Soon Gifts Basket, Unique Birthday Gifts Box with Inspirational Blanket Candle for Women, Her, Mom, Wife#NationalGirlfriendsDay — Gifts for Women, Mom, Wife, Girlfriend, Sister, Her – Happy Birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day Gifts – Lavender Spa Gift Basket Set

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

College Life

July 31, 2026July 16, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

While some students attending college will stay at home. The vast majority will be moving into a dorm room, first apartment, or another living arrangement; some close by, others across the country, I’ve compiled a list of things you will need. Some of these are obvious, some not so much. Make sure you double-check the amenities of your new home. Get great savings on everything you need. Students can get a 6 months free trial of Amazon Prime. Just click here.

One last note. If you are traveling make sure you have your important papers in a safe, easy to access place. Take pictures on your phone and put in secure hidden storage. Things like Drivers license, insurance papers, bank information, school administration paperwork, and dorm assignment papers. You might need a copy of your birth certificate or your social security card. You should also have a master list of credit card numbers, insurance policy numbers, important emergency contact numbers, and vehicle plate and vin number. Everyone should have this information in a safe place. Travel or disasters natural or man made can happen anywhere or time. This information will make everything easier to deal with. We keep a second copy.

School Needs

Laptop or 2 in 1 laptop\tablet
Hotspot device or ethernet cable
Headphones
Powers strip
Extension cord(s)
Printer, Ink, Paper(some places provide this. Check with yours).
USB Flash drives
Tv
Speakers
Chargers and portable charger
Backpack
Day Planner
Calculator
3 Hole Punch
Index cards(I like mine in color for each subject but plain whitewill work)
Highlighter pens
Folders
Notebooks
Pens and Pencils
Post-it Notes
Scissors
Sharpies black, assorted colors
Scotch Tape

Dorm Life

Bedside fan
Bulletin board with a whiteboard
Desk lamp ,extra bulbs if not led
Full length mirror
Curtains, Curtain rods(will make it feel more like home).
Closet Shoe Hanger(might want 2 or 3, these are great for organization beyond shoes)
Laundry basketor Tote
Door Stop
Extra-tall bed risers(most dorm beds are now adjustable)
Underbed storage
3 drawer storage
Comforter or duvetwith cover (full-size bedding will make it more comfortable. It will look and feel more like home)
Extra-long bed sheets
Pillowsand pillowcases
Mattress topper
Bed bug cover
First Aid kit
Bedside desk
Bedrest pillow

Dinning

Brita filter, or pitcher with filter(save money not buying bottled water)
Microwave
Mini refrigerator
Plastic silverware, plates and bowls
Ziplock bags(for both organization and storing snacks)
Food storage containers
Chip clips and more
Mugs
Water Bottle
Coffee pot or electric kettle (save money brewing your own. You can also get things like Starbucks Via or Folgers singles) Cappuccino mix is a good choice if you like cream.

Decorating

Cleaning Stuff

Bathroom

Personal Items

Other Stuff you will need

Rain boots
Umbrella(s) I keep one in my bag, one in the carand at least one at home.
Gym Bag
Computer Lock
Duct Tape
Weekend Bag
Wrinkle release spray
Combination lock
Humidifier
Command Hooks
A Safe for Valuables
Streaming Device
Medicines – Rx and basic over the counter (You do not want to make a trip to the store if you wake up sick.)
Emergency sewing kit

Off to College shopping — College shopping

FAMILY FUN MONTH

July 31, 2026July 16, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 5 Comments

Each year, Family Fun Month is celebrated throughout the month of August. It is the opportune time to enjoy family with extra fun and activities.

Minute of Fun Party Game - 237 Minute to Win It Challenges for Duels, Teams, Parties, Teens, Family, Friends, Party Games, Kids, Adults, Home, School, Travel 2-12 Players Mom's Choice Awards Winner — Minute of Fun Party Game – 237 Minute to Win It Challenges for Duels, Teams, Parties, Teens, Family, Friends, Party Games, Kids, Adults, Home, School, Travel 2-12 Players Mom’s Choice Awards Winner

SKYJO by Magilano - The entertaining card game for kids and adults. The ideal game for fun, entertaining and exciting hours of play with friends and family. — Minute of Fun Party Game – 237 Minute to Win It Challenges for Duels, Teams, Parties, Teens, Family, Friends, Party Games, Kids, Adults, Home, School, Travel 2-12 Players Mom’s Choice Awards Winner

Make some time this month for family fun. Have a movie night, make your pizza, family game night, make your own ice cream, or sundaes. These simple activities bring us closer.

My parents were considered very old fashioned when we were growing up. We are at least one meal together, it was prepared together and we ate together. Conversation flowed about the day, school, upcoming plans, and what movie it game were we engaging in next.

Those conversations yielded values, appreciation, respect, the value of a dollar, and a lack of reliance on technologies. We learned life skills without knowing it. How to cook, communicate, problem solving, compromise and fairness. If you had asked any of us at the time I’m quite sure we were oblivious, but those lessons have seen us through more than one life challenging event.

So laugh, love and live! As the years go by you’ll always have those memories. So no matter what else comes along the path of life no one can take that from you.

You may want to :

Order pizza, better still make your own. Everyone can join in, and watch a movie.
Go camping
Take a vacation
Go for ice cream or make your own Vanilla, Banana split, or Ice Cream Soda
Enjoy a backyard campfire. Don’t forget the S’mores. Everyone loves roasting marshmallows!
Build a backyard fort
Family bike ride
Day trip to a Zoo or Aquarium
Fishing
Hiking
Day at the park. Find a National Park in your neighborhood.
Make a talent show
Cook meals together try some easy ones like Tacos or Spaghetti
Have a karaoke night
Family Game night, no not on tv. Break out Clue, Life, Dominos, Uno, Skip-Bo, or a jigsaw puzzle.

HISTORY

The origins of Family Fun Month have not been determined. Who cares? Use this as a great chance to make lasting memories. If 2020 has taught us anything it should be to remember who is important to you and never take the time you have for granted.