Makenzie is currently a senior at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, pursuing a double major in Communications and Sports, Outdoor Recreation, and Tourism (SORT). She is also a leader of the cross country and track teams. After graduation, Makenzie intends to get her Master’s Degree in Business.
Growing up in East Tennessee, Makenzie spent most of her life outdoors. She experienced both traditional and adventure sports, including water and snow skiing, soccer, basketball, swimming, cycling, gymnastics, and running, just to name a few. During her school career, cross country and track became her competitive focus. She earned multiple local, state, regional, and a couple of national awards and recognitions. Some of those include course and school records, a state title, featured in Runner’s World Running Times Magazine, and received a full-ride scholarship to continue running in college. Not only was she a superb athlete, but she also excelled in school with a 4.0 all the way through.
Have Faith
More important than her persistence, passion for knowledge, and fitness, Makenzie attributes all of her successes to her relationship with the Lord.
“I’ve had some great accomplishments along the way, but I am not without my share of failures and struggles. There are things that I don’t understand how I made it through, but I know that God has given me grace and opportunities so that I can use my experiences to help others.”
By overcoming life’s challenges and being grateful for the new opportunities, Makenzie finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, seeing each day as a blessing. She wants to use her talents, passions, and opportunities to #CelebrateEveryDay and share with others how they can find fulfillment life, too.
Family, Friends and Food
When she is not training or studying, Makenzie enjoys many activities. A few of them include reading, doing Bible study, spending time with family and pets, and crafting. She is also a freelance writer and pet/house sitter. Makenzie also finds it gratifying to cook for friends and family. She enjoys spending time together.
“There is a reason Jesus often met with people around a meal table!”
She also loves to travel, searching out all the best local spots to eat, especially unique ice cream. We love having Makenzie as an Ambassador for National Day Calendar® and look forward to hearing all about her latest adventures.
Follow Makenzie Jones on any of these social media channels.
On January 19th, National Popcorn Day pops onto the scene with a crunch we all love to enjoy! The annual celebration recognizes a treat that satisfies munchies, day or night. Read more…
World Quark Day | January 19
WORLD QUARK DAY
On January 19th, World Quark Day officially celebrates quark and its many benefits. Quark is a European superfood staking its claim on supermarket shelves worldwide. Quark is a delicious high-protein, low-fat alternative to soft cheese and yogurt that can be used for baking, cooking, and blending. Read more…
Get to Know Your Customers Day | Third Thursday Each Quarter
GET TO KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS DAY
Get to Know Your Customers Day reminds businesses to reach out to patrons and get to know them better. The day is observed annually on the third Thursday of each quarter (January, April, July, October). Read more…
This version of Welsh Rarebit is an excellent way to use up the ends of a loaf of bread or serve with crackers as a snack.
Ingredients:
1 cup milk, evaporated milk or light cream 1 cup dry bread crumbs 1 cup grated Cheddar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon dry mustard 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 egg, slightly beaten Crisp toast or crackers 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
Instructions:
In a double boiler, melt cheese together with the milk and bread crumbs.
Once melted, stir in the spices and Worcestershire sauce.
Add the slightly beaten egg and stir well. Cook about one minute, stirring continuously.
Pour immediately over toast or crackers. Garnish with diced tomatoes. For added flavor, add corn beef slices, too.
Serve hot.
January 19th Celebrated History
1825
The United States Patent Office issues the first patent for a tin can in the U.S. to Ezra Daggett and Thomas Kensett.
1920
The American Civil Liberties Union is founded. The organization grew out of the 1917 National Civil Liberties Bureau founded by Roger Nash Baldwin and Crystal Eastman. Other founding members include Helen Keller, Morris Ernst, Garfield Hays, and Jane Addams.
1954
Frederick .M Jones receives patent No. 2,666,298 for his “Methods and Means of Defrosting a Cold Diffuser.” His invention improved refrigeration units of all kinds, especially trucks transporting frozen foods. Jones was also co-founder of the Thermo-King company.
1978
The last German-made Volkswagen Beetle leaves the production line in Emden, Germany. Volkswagen continues production of the iconic car in Mexico until 2003.
2001
Donnie Darko starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, and Mary McDonnell premieres at the Sundance Film Festival. Directed and written by Richard Kelly, the science-fiction drama was nominated for a Grand Jury Prize.
2013
Marlo Anderson founded National Day Calendar and began to Celebrate Every Day! The first holiday added to the calendar was National Popcorn Day.
January 19th Celebrated Birthdays
Edgar Allan Poe – 1809
One of America’s most recognized storytellers, Poe’s macabre style and imagination left an indelible mark on all who read him. Some of Poe’s best-loved poems and stories include “The Raven” and The Purloined Letter and The Tell-Tale Heart.
Oveta Culp Hobby -1905
In 1943, Hobby was named the first director of the Women’s Army Corps. President Dwight D. Eisenhower named Hobby to his Cabinet as the first Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1953.
John H. Johnson – 1918
In 1942, Johnson founded the Johnson Publishing Company. The company’s first publication was a monthly periodical named Negro Digest. By 1951, they would add two other magazines – Ebony and Jet. The Chicago publisher soon expanded and added books to its portfolio as well.
Carl Brashear – 1931
The naval officer served 31 years in the U.S. Navy. He was the first African American Navy diver. In 1966 during a recovery mission, an injury resulted in the amputation of his left leg below the knee. Refusing to retire, Brashear pursued and qualified as a master diver, becoming the first African American to achieve the status in U.S. Navy history.
Janis Joplin – 1943
The American folk-rock singer-songwriter gained an audience in the mid-1960s. Some of the songs Joplin is best known for include, “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” and “Cry Baby.”
Dolly Parton – 1946
The award-winning country music singer-songwriter gained her first critical attention in 1969 when the Academy of Country Music nominated Parton for Top Female Vocalist. Parton also pursued a successful film career including 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias, and Joyful Noise.
About National Day Calendar
National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.
At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!
On National Classy Day, we celebrate those who are graced with the ability to live their lives with class, passion, and who are driven to share it with others. On January 17th, honor those class acts and commemorate the birth of one of the most legendary comedians ever to walk the Earth. Read more…
National Bootlegger’s Day | January 17
NATIONAL BOOTLEGGER’S DAY
National Bootlegger’s Day on January 17th recognizes an era when bootleggers became legendary. Read more…
National Hot Buttered Rum Day | January 17
NATIONAL HOT BUTTERED RUM DAY
On January 17th, National Hot Buttered Rum Day warms us up during mid-January. Read more…
3 quarts boiling water 4 tea bags 3/4 to 1 1/4 cups sugar 1 can frozen lemonade concentrate 12 ounces vodka 1/4 cup blueberries 1/4 cup raspberries 8 strawberries 1 lemon thinly sliced
Instructions:
Steep tea bags for 5 minutes in boiling water that has been removed from the heat, covered.
Once the tea is steeped, remove tea bags and discard them.
Add the sugar, lemonade, and vodka. Stir well.
Chill for 3 hours. Prepare garnish by sliding berries and folded lemon slices onto a skewer.
Pour over ice and garnish with skewers.
January 17th Celebrated History
1871
Inventor Andrew S. Hallidie received the first U.S. patent for the cable car. His invention described in U.S. patent No.110,971 consisted of a series of pulleys and cables designed to transport a bucket or car along a track. In 1873, Hallidie oversaw the installation of the first cable car in San Francisco, California at Clay Street.
1928
The U.S. Patent Office issued patent No. 1656,522 for an automatic photo-developing machine to Anatol M. Josepho. He called it a Photomaton, and today it’s called a photo booth.
1929
Popeye the Sailor Man appears for the first time in the Thimble Theatre comic strip. The artist, E.C. Segar created the strip and the spinach-loving character.
1955
The USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, departed on its first voyage under the leadership of Commander Eugene P. Wilkinson.
January 17th Celebrated Birthdays
Benjamin Franklin – 1706
One of America’s most recognized Founding Fathers, Franklin was instrumental in several facets of the American Revolution. He was also a prolific inventor and man of science.
Al Capone – 1899
The most notorious gangster of the Prohibition era, Capone led the Chicago Outfit.
Betty White – 1922
The American actress and comedian’s enduring career spans more than 80 years. Her performances began in the days of radio and soon landed her first sitcom, Life with Elizabeth. Through the years, White has thrilled audiences on shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls, and Hot in Cleveland.
James Earl Jones – 1931
Considered one of the most respected actors on stage and screen, Jones’ career spans more than six decades. His resonant voice and powerful stage presence leave an indelible performance on every role he plays.
About National Day Calendar
National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.
At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!
Each year on January 8 we celebrate National Career Coach Day and recognize the important work of career coaches across the United States. Read more…
NATIONAL BUBBLE BATH DAY
On a cold winter’s day, relaxing in a nice warm/hot bubble bath sounds like the perfect way to commemorate National Bubble Bath Day. Is it no wonder we celebrate it annually on January 8th? Read more…
NATIONAL JOYGERM DAY
On January 8th, National JoyGerm Day annually reminds people across the country that by being positive and treating people with kindness, they can influence those around them and pass that positive attitude on to others. When we share good moods, we impact the lives of people around us, and those people become infected with that same positive joy and spread it to others. Read more…
NATIONAL ENGLISH TOFFEE DAY
On January 8th, National English Toffee Day celebrates a favored confection that’s been enjoyed across the country for generations. This sweet treat comes with some confusion concerning the difference between English toffee and just plain toffee. Despite the confusion, it’s an enjoyable confection no matter how you crack it. Read more…
NATIONAL WINTER SKIN RELIEF DAY
As winter kicks into high gear, National Winter Skin Relief Day on January 8 reminds us of all the ways we can keep our skin from withering under the harshest of elements. The dropping temperatures outside and rising thermostats inside sap the amount of moisture in the air. Our skin is first to notice. Read more…
NATIONAL SUNDAY SUPPER DAY
National Sunday Supper Day encourages families to gather around the table, enjoy a meal and a conversation together each year on the second Sunday in January. Read more…
National Argyle Day | January 8
NATIONAL ARGYLE DAY
National Argyle Day on January 8th celebrates the pattern derived from the tartan of Clan Campbell, of Argyll in western Scotland. The Scottish Highlanders have worn the design in kilts and plaids and patterned socks (known as a tartan hose) since the 17th century. Each year it is recognized and honored on this day. Read more…
Apple Strudel Prep: 15 minutes Cook: 45 minutes Total Prep: 1 hour Servings: 12
Ingredients:
Filling 5 cups sliced apples 1 cup raisins 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 Tablespoon flour
Dough 3 cups flour 1 cup shortening 1 egg yolk and white, divided 1/2 cup milk
Topping 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, mix apples, raisin, sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Set aside.
Cream together flour and shortening. Mix in the milk and egg yolk. Divide dough in half and roll out the first layer to fit into the bottom of jelly roll pan.
Add filling evenly to the pan. Roll out the remaining dough and cover the filling.
Bake at 375° for 45 minutes.
Dust with powdered sugar. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired.
January 8th Celebrated History
1790
George Washington delivers the first State of the Union address to Congress in Federal Hall in New York City.
1867
Congress overrides Andrew Johnson’s veto of a bill granting Blacks the right to vote in Washington, D.C. At the time, citizens of D.C. had no representation in Congress, though they did have a local governing body.
1978
BBC TV debuts the television series All Creatures Great and Small based on the autobiographical books by author James Herriot.
January 8th Celebrated Birthdays
Fanny Bullock Workman – 1859
The explorer spent most of her career climbing the Himalayas. One of her most notable achievements includes being the first woman to exceed 23,300 feet when she climbed Pinnacle Peak.
Elvis Presley – 1935
Known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Presley gained fame in 1955 with his first number 1 hit sing, “Heartbreak Hotel.” Before long, he was cast in his first film, Love Me Tender. Then, after serving in the Army, Elvis’ music career rocketed off the charts.
Stephen Hawking – 1942
The theoretical physicist redefined the way we think about the universe. Even with the devastating diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Hawking proceeded to redefine the Big Bang theory or rather bring it into focus. He also further studied and defined black holes. In addition, Hawking published several books, including The Theory of Everything and A Brief History of Time.
David Bowie – 1947
Born David Robert Jones, the English singer-songwriter gained popularity with his first hit song “Space Oddity” in 1969. Bowie also starred in several films including Labyrinth, The Prestige, and The Man Who Fell to Earth.
About National Day Calendar
National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.
At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!
World Health Esteem Month in January is a month to appreciate ourselves for who we are now and the small choices we can make to enhance our lives without making any resolution. Read more…
NEW YEAR’S DAY
Nearly the entire world recognizes New Year’s Day on January 1st. It’s also one of the most celebrated holidays of the year. Read more…
NATIONAL HANGOVER DAY
On January 1st, National Hangover Day nurses the aching heads of all of us who over celebrated New Year’s Eve each year. Read more…
NATIONAL BLOODY MARY DAY
National Bloody Mary Day serves up one of the world’s most popular hangover cures on January 1, the Bloody Mary. Read more…
1 packet active dry yeast 1/4 cup lukewarm water 1 1/2 cups warm milk 1/3 cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs, room temperature 5-5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Shortening for frying
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. When bubbles begin to form in the yeast mixture, stir in the milk and eggs. Cut the butter into the mixture. Gradually add flour and salt, scraping sides as you stir. When a dough forms, turn the dough onto a floured surface. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but not too much or donuts will be tough. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth. Form a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover and place in a warm place to let the dough rise.
When the dough is double in size, turn out onto a floured surface and knead. Divide dough in half and cover. Allow to rest 10-15 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix glaze ingredients. Add enough milk to create a thin, pourable glaze.
Line a baking sheet with parchment.
Turn one half the dough onto a floured surface and roll the dough into about 1/2 inch thickness. Dust donut cutter with flour and cut out donuts. Place on baking sheet. Cover and allow the donuts to rise until doubled in size.
Set a cooling rack on a baking sheet. Heat cooking oil in a deep-fryer or large pot to 350-375°F.
Drop donuts into the hot oil, 1-2 minutes per side. Using a slotted spoon, remove doughnuts and place them on the cooling rack.
Drizzle glaze over the tops of the doughnuts while the donuts are warm but slightly cooled.
January 1st Celebrated History
1818
Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor, & Jones publishes the novel Frankenstein: or The Modern Prometheus anonymously. Written by Mary Shelley, the author’s identity isn’t revealed until three years later when the second edition is published in Paris.
1892
The first immigrants pass through the doors of the Ellis Island Immigration Station. Ellis Island replaced Castle Garden as the new landing depot for immigrants entering the United States via New York.
1895
Entrepreneur C.W. Post of Battle Creek, Michigan introduces Postum Food Coffee. The Coffee substitute is made from wheat, bran, and molasses. Three years later he introduces Post Grape-Nuts cereal.
1939
The Hewlett Packard Company is founded in a garage in Palo Alto, CA by Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard.
1990
David Dinkins takes the oath of office becoming New York City’s first Black mayor.
1992
The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) mandated hospitals to include no-smoking policies indoors or risk losing accreditation. Loss of accreditations places hospitals at risk of losing Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement.
January 1st Celebrated Birthdays
Paul Revere – 1735
The American patriot is best known for his midnight ride to alert other patriots of British troops. However, a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow leaves out a few names, including William Dawes, Samuel Prescott, Israel Bissell and possibly one other. The last one, Sybil Ludington, leaves some doubt in the mind of historians as no record of her ride exists until much later.
Benjamin Leroy Holt – 1849
The younger brother of the founder of Holt Brothers Company, Benjamin Holt invented the first tractor to use tracks instead of wheels.
William Fox – 1879
In 1915, Fox founded the Fox Film Corporation. He would later establish the Fox West Coast Theatres chain.
Noor Inayat Khan -1914
After joining the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) during World War II, Khan was recruited as a Special Operations Executive (SOE) to be a radio operator for the resistance network in occupied Paris. Her mission was to send coded messages back to London. In 1943, the Germans captured her, and they later executed her.
J.D. Salinger – 1919
The American author is best known for the coming of age story The Catcher in the Rye.
James Sinegal – 1936
In 1983, the American businessman founded the warehouse retail chain Costco Wholesale Corporation.
About National Day Calendar
National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.
At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!
Answer the Telephone Like Buddy the Elf Day on December 18th encourages everyone to add some elf behavior to their day. Read more…
NATIONAL TWIN DAY
On December 18th, National Twin Day celebrates all the siblings who enjoy the unique connection because they share a birthday. Read more…
CHANUKAH
Chanukah also spelled Hanukkah and known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the re-dedication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah (Hebrew: חֲנֻכָּה, usually spelled חנוכה pronounced [χanuˈka] in Modern Hebrew, also romanized as Chanukah or Chanuka), is observed for eight nights and days. According to the Hebrew calendar, it starts on the 25th day of Kislev, which may occur from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. Read more…
NATIONAL ROAST SUCKLING PIG DAY
National Roast Suckling Pig Day on December 18th recognizes a savory dish that takes some planning to prepare. The results, however, are worth the effort. Read more…
3 tablespoons olive oil 3 onions, thinly sliced 2 1/2 cups beef broth 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce pinch of ground black pepper 6 slices French bread, toasted 2/3 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until tender and golden, about 20 minutes. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
Set oven to broil. Place 6 oven-safe bowls on a baking sheet. Spoon soup into each bowl. Place bread slices on top. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil on top rack until cheese begins to brown.
December 18th Celebrated History
1865
The U.S. Secretary of State William Seward proclaims the adoption of the 13th Amendment prohibiting slavery. The amendment was ratified by the states on December 6, 1865.
1917
Congress passes the 18th Amendment and sends it to the states for ratification. The era of the “Noble Experiment” of Prohibition would soon begin.
1958
Project SCORE (Signal Communication by Orbiting Relay Equipment) launched from Cape Canaveral. It was the world’s first communications satellite. Build by the U.S. Army Signal Research and Development Laboratory, the satellite contained a message from President Dwight Eisenhower that said, “This is the President of the United States speaking. Through the marvels of scientific advance, my voice is coming to you from a satellite traveling in outer space. My message is a simple one: Through this unique means I convey to you and all mankind, America’s wish for peace on Earth and goodwill toward men everywhere.”
1963
The Pink Panther starring David Niven, Peter Sellers, and Robert Wagner premieres in Italy. Directed by Blake Edwards, the comedy follows the misadventures of the inept Inspector Clouseau as he tries to catch a jewel thief.
1968
CBS airs the animated adaption of Dr. Suess’s How the Grinch Stole Chrismas for the first time.
December 18th Celebrated Birthdays
Walter D. Teague – 1883
Considered the “Dean of Industrial Design,” Teague’s pioneering influence helped establish the industrial design profession. He made his first forays into industrial design with Eastman Kodak, designing several cameras. From there, many more corporate clients followed including Boeing, Maxwell House, UPS, DuPont, and NASA.
Ty Cobb – 1886
The center fielder played 24 seasons in professional baseball, most of those years with the Detroit Tigers. Known for being an all-around baseball player, he could hit, run and field. He earned 11 batting titles during his career and held numerous records at his retirement.
Yvonne Cormeau – 1909
As an agent with the Special Operations Executives, Cormeau parachuted into German-occupied France to supply wireless communications back to London. She was almost arrested but managed to convince the Germans that her wireless was an x-ray machine. During her World War II service, she successfully transmitted more than 400 messages.
Benjamin O. Davis – 1912
During World War II, Davis organized and commanded the Tuskegee Airmen. In 1950, he became the first African American promoted to the rank of general in the United States Air Force. He was promoted to full general in 1998.
Jacques Pépin – 1935
The award-winning chef has been honored in his native France and by his adopted United States for his many contributions to the culinary world.
Steven Spielberg – 1946
The director has earned both critical and popular acclaim throughout his career. From E.T and the Indiana Jones series to historical dramas like Lincoln and Amistad, Spielberg never seems to disappoint the audience.
About National Day Calendar
National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.
At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!
April is the fourth month of the year and consists of 30 days on the Grеgоrіаn саlеndаr and іtѕ рrеdесеѕѕоr, the Julіаn саlеndаr. Itѕ nаmе is derived from thе Latin wоrd aperit, which means “tо ореn.” In the Northern Hemisphere, April is a part of the growing season. The sun warms the earth, awakening the plants and blossoms and leaves “open” bright and new. It is аlѕо bеlіеvеd thаt the mоnth’ѕ nаmе is named after the Greek gоddеѕѕ, Aphrodite (Aphros).
April wasn’t always the fourth month. Originally, the Roman calendar placed the month second, though it still соnѕіѕtеd оf 30 dауѕ. It became the fourth mоnth соnѕіѕtіng оf only 29 dауѕ when January wаѕ dеѕіgnаtеd thе fіrѕt month of thе уеаr around 450 BCE. Aрrіl became 30 dауѕ lоng again whеn Julius Cаеѕаr rеfоrmеd thе calendar.
Weather & Seasons
April is the second month of spring and оn the lірѕ оf many is the оld saying “Aрrіl ѕhоwеrѕ bring May flowers.” Thе сhіllу wіndѕ аnd damp wеаthеr аrе nоt yet done. Aрrіl then іѕ a hореful month ѕhоwіng the promise оf bеаutу in the nоt too distant future. In the Southern Hemisphere, fall begins.
The Eаѕtеr holiday most оftеn fаllѕ durіng April. Eаѕtеr is thе соmmеmоrаtіоn оf thе dеаth аnd resurrection оf Jesus. Mаnу оf thе rituals ѕurrоundіng іtѕ сеlеbrаtіоn hаvе a раgаn оrіgіn іnсludіng hіdіng easter еggѕ. Eggѕ are a ѕуmbоl оf fеrtіlіtу and nеw life.
April’s full moon is called the Pink Moon and represents the pink phlox flower that blooms in April. When the Pink Moon is also the first full moon of spring it is called the Paschal moon.
April is also a terrific month for sports. The official baseball season begins. Golf gets into the swing of things, too plus basketball and hockey are in the midst of their regular season. Professional soccer is heading toward season finales.
What’s Your Sign?
Those born in April are either an Aries (the Ram) or Taurus (the Bull). A diamond is April’s best friend…we mean birthstone. The birth flowers are daisy and sweet pea.
Five Fast Facts
1. April Fool’s Day may have оrіgіnаtеd іn Frаnсе whеrе Nеw Yеаrѕ Dау was сеlеbrаtеd during Mеdіеvаl times оn April 1st. When Grеgоrу XIII changed it back to January 1st іn 1582, mаnу people in rurаl areas dіd nоt mаkе thе сhаngе for ѕеvеrаl уеаrѕ. Thе соѕmороlіtаn сіtу dwеllеrѕ thought thеm fools fоr thіѕ rеаѕоn, аnd іt bесаmе the fаѕhіоn to tаkе advantage of thе nаіvеtе оf thе provincials оn this dаtе. The рrасtісе ѕрrеаd tо England аnd other Englіѕh speaking соuntrіеѕ.
2. April ѕtаrtѕ оn thе ѕаmе dау оf thе week as Julу аnd ends on thе ѕаmе dау of thе week аѕ Dесеmbеr іn соmmоn уеаrѕ. Durіng leap уеаrѕ, April ѕtаrtѕ on thе ѕаmе dау оf thе wееk аѕ Jаnuаrу.
3. Those born in April share their birthdays with:
4. Spring cleaning is associated with several cultures but its place in April comes from the Jewish tradition to prepare the home for Passover. It’s also part of the Christian tradition in preparation for the first day of Lent.
5. How many people do know named April? The name “April” is ranked Aрrіl іѕ аlѕо a рорulаr nаmе gіvеn tо a lоt оf реорlе. In the United States, the name Aрrіl іѕ thе 453rd mоѕt соmmоn nаmе. The United Kingdom ranks the name slightly higher at 278th most common name.
More important than her persistence, passion for knowledge, and fitness, Makenzie attributes all of her successes to her relationship with the Lord. 
