Apr 14 - Pecans

No matter how you pronounce the word National Pecan Day means pecan pie & that was the plan. Headed to Williamsburg to Pies & Thighs only to discover they have a Butter Pecan Crunch Doughnut.....I am still full :)

A member of the hickory family, the pecan is native to central and southern United States. “Pecan” is an Algonquian word, meaning a nut requiring a stone to crack. They are an excellent source of copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc and vitamin E.  Pecans can help reduce LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol levels in the blood.  They are rich in dietary fiber.

Pecans make great snacks all on their own, but they also make terrific garnishes to other foods such as desserts, salads or the main meal.  Sweet or savory, pecans can add a little glamor to a dish or be the star of the show.

source:http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-pecan-day-april-14/

Apr 13 - Jefferson

Today honors the birth of the third President of The United States, Thomas Jefferson, who was born April 13, 1743. He is most known as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson was a stalwart of democracy.  While not much an orator, his pen cut quite a swath of ink through correspondence, documents, journals and manuscripts.



Jefferson was not only a lawyer but a scientist of agriculture, paleontology, and astronomy. Immensely curious,  he kept detailed records of the weather and eventually established weather observers across his home state of Virginia.
Jefferson served as minister to France, Secretary of State in President Washington’s Cabinet and ran for President for the first time in 1796 only to be elected Vice President to his opponent, John Adams due to a flaw in the Constitution.
Four years later the same fault in the document caused a tie within the same party between Aaron Burr and Jefferson with Jefferson assuming the Presidency.


To celebrate meant a trip to 57 Maiden Lane, which he rented while serving as Secretary of State in New York City in 1790.

History: By Presidential Proclamation 2276 on March 21, 1938, Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed April 13 as a day to celebrate the birth of Thomas Jefferson.  Then again on April 11, 2007, Presidential Proclamation 8124 by President George W. Bush commemorated the same day at Thomas Jefferson Day.


Also if you are Hamilton fans: All Things Hamilton shares the details of a dinner Jefferson at 57 Maiden Lane with Alexander Hamilton and James Madison to finalize the deal for what has come to be known as the Compromise of 1790










Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-thomas-jefferson-day-april-13/

Apr 12 - Licorice

Have to say I am a fan of this - National Licorice Day though I know not everyone like the flavor and it fell on a day when I had to pop to Irish store in Queens so obviously it had to be All Sorts :)




















This day was created by the Licorice International in 2004 to celebrate black licorice, its history, health benefits and world renown.  Enjoy black licorice in twists, stem shaped candies, licorice ropes, jelly beans, jewels and many others.


Of course, the designation has evolved as people consign all types and flavors of licorice to celebrate the day.

Like me and my Liquorice allsorts which consist of assorted liquorice sugar candies sold as a mixture. These confections are made of liquorice, sugar, coconut, aniseed jelly, fruit flavorings, and gelatine. They were first produced in Sheffield, England, by Geo. Bassett & Co Ltd who had taken over Barratt's (makers of sherbet fountains/sweet cigarettes), and Trebor (makers of mints) before themselves being taken over by the Cadbury's consortium.
Allsorts are produced by many companies around the world today. They are most popular in Britain, the Isle of Man, continental Europe (especially in the Netherlands where it is called Engelse drop, meaning English liquorice), and Canada.


Bassett's use the story of their creation in their marketing. In 1899 Charlie Thompson, a sales representative, supposedly dropped a tray of samples he was showing a client in Leicester, mixing up the various sweets. After he scrambled to re-arrange them, the client was intrigued by the new creation. Quickly the company began to mass-produce the allsorts and they became very popular.

The Bassett's company mascot is Bertie Bassett, a figure made up of liquorice allsorts, which has become a part of British popular culture. The character's origins lie with advertising copywriter Frank Regan, who used the sweets and a number of pipe-cleaners to construct what was the original version of Bertie. One of the sweets in the modern day allsorts mix is a liquorice figure shaped like Bertie.

Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-licorice-day-april-12/ and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liquorice_allsorts

Apr 11 - CHEESE AGAIN :)

This is my favorite kind of day cheese but not just any kind , melted cheese its National Cheese Fondue Day 😃


 So back to where my love of fondue began Vintners on 9th with an old friend that I met there and have shared many fondues, thanks for coming out on a school night Gina :)

Fondue is a dish of melted cheese or other ingredients, served in a communal pot (caquelon) over a small portable stove (réchaud).  Bread is then dipped from long-stemmed forks into the cheese.  Cheese fondue consists of a blend of cheeses, wine and seasoning.
A 1966 book published in Zurich, under the name “Kass mit Wein zu kochen” is known for having the earliest known recipe for cheese fondue.  It calls for grated or cut up cheese to be melted with wine and for the bread to be dipped in it.
The first known recipe with cheese and wine was published under the name “Cheese Fondue” in 1875.
The success of fondue may be contributed to the introduction of cornstarch to Switzerland in 1905, which made it easier to make a smooth and stable emulsion of the wine and cheese.








Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-cheese-fondue-day-april-11/

Apr 10 - Sibs

It's National Siblings Day and while I didn't get home this week and mange to find a good embarrassing photo of us all but I did find one from a few years ago when we were all together  😉

Looking forward to hanging with one of the siblings in a few days !!!


HISTORY
National Siblings Day was founded by native New Yorker, Claudia Evart in 1995 to honor and celebrate siblings.  After losing her two siblings early in life in separate accidents, she knew how important siblings could be in our lives.
Claudia created the Siblings Day Foundation (SDF), a tax-exempt organization, whose goals included the establishment of National Siblings Day.  Claudia selected April 10 in honor of her late sister, Lisette’s birthday.  Visit the website for more National Siblings Day information at  http://www.siblingsday.org/.








source:http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-siblings-day-april-10/

April 09- Unicorns

I tried to find one but not happening and while this isn't a national day in the US in honor of tartan week it is National Unicorn Day which is actually celebrated in Scotland!!!

The mythical creature is a symbol of nobility and power and has been the nation's favored beast since the 14th Century. Some of Scotland's most historic buildings have statutes and images of unicorns:

National War Museum at Edinburgh Castle

The Queens Gallery in the Palace at Holyrood House

At the Fountain in the Courtyard at Linlithgow Palace

This photo is the only water based unicorn on the HM Frigate in Dundee, Scotland's only surviving example of a wooden warship. For a life sized sculpture head to Cromarty on the Black Isle to the Stables, a converted Georgian building which now houses a gallery & studio.


Of course for the real thing , join Quests & Retreats for a Unicorn Quest exploring the landscapes and forests of Dumfries in search of the mysterious creature!!!


 For my hunt it is finally a trip The Cloisters to see the Mystic Hunt of the Unicorn  tapestry. Photos, if allowed, to follow...

Source: http://www.thenationalstudent.com/Travel/2017-03-30/celebrate_national_unicorn_day_in_scotland.html

Apr 08 - Empanada

Well again this did not go to plan it was a theme for this whole weekend, didn't get to original place downtown and really wanted to stay local but Empanada mama was destroyed in a fire and isn't quite open yet, I will be there as soon as it does to fulfill this day!!

As you can see the sign is up so we are getting close to a reopening!


Empanadas are a stuffed bread or pastry that is baked or fried.  The name empanada comes from the Galician, Portuguese and Spanish verb em pandar, meaning to wrap or coat in bread.
Empanadas are made by folding the dough or bread around a seasoned stuffing. The filling usually is made from meat, cheese, vegetables or fruits but may be made with other ingredients.
A cookbook published in 1520 in Catalan, the Libre del Coch by Ruperto de Nola, mentions empanadas filled with seafood.
In the Southern and Southwestern United States, empanadas are called Creoles.  They are a half-circle flaky crust filled with seasoned pork, beef or chicken and cheese.  In the Southeastern United States, empanadas are referred to as a “fried pie” and are a pastry filled with fresh or reconstituted dry fruit such as apples, apricots, peaches or sweet potatoes and then fried.  In New Mexico, it is a winter tradition to make sweetmeat empanadas for Christmas.  They are made with ground pork, sugar, pinon nuts, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, sealed in a tortilla-like dough and then deep fried in lard.






Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-empanada-day-april-8/

Apr 07 - Beer

Now this is a fun day - original plan was to be at the airport on way home but not meant to be and I ended up working late and not getting to where I wanted to so a day behind on all but beer was had so that is all that counts right!!!

One of the world’s oldest prepared beverages, beer possibly dates back to 9500 BC when cereal was first farmed.  It is recorded in the written history of ancient Iraq and ancient Egypt.
Beer is the world’s most widely consumed alcoholic beverage.  Following water and tea, it is the third most popular drink overall.


HISTORY
On April 7, 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt took the first step toward ending Prohibition and signed a law that allowed people to brew and sell beer, in the United States, as long as it remained below 4.0% alcohol by volume (ABV).  Beer drinkers celebrated and were happy to be able to purchase beer again for the first time in thirteen years.


Research found this day was created as National Beer Day by Justin Smith, a Richmond, Virginia Craft Beer Examiner, and his friend Mike Connolly from Liverpool, England.   April 7th was chosen because the Cullen-Harrison Act was signed into law and became active on this day.  In 2009, Smith and Connolly created a National Beer Day Facebook page. From this page, they invited friends to join, and word has spread to many sources that April 7 is National Beer Day

Source:http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-beer-day-april-7/

Apr 06- More Caramel

Not quite as big a fan but its National Caramel Popcorn Day - yet again the popcorn truck was not close by and Penn Station is just not happening so the local store it was

While I associate this with ball parks / sporting events as that is where I usually see it did the job last night for a little chill out and Netflix evening.


Combining popcorn and molasses began in the early 1800s. Caramel was common as well, and with the production of Cracker Jack, the popularity was ever increasing.  


Some history on Cracker Jack.

Apr 05 - Caramel

This one came at the perfect time of year - National Caramel Day coming up to Easter combines to of my favs chocolate and caramel in the shape of a bunny :)

Caramels are made by adding milk and fat to a sugary syrup that has been heated and continuously stirred until it reaches a light brown color.  As early as the seventeenth century, American women were using caramelized sugar and water to make candies.  It was a rather economical candy to produce.  Around the year 1850, someone discovered that by adding milk and a fat product to the cooked sugar mixture that a soft, chewy candy would be produced.  This candy very quickly became popular.


Caramel is used to make a variety of desserts either as a featured ingredient, flavoring or topping. Depending on the consistency it can be used as a syrup or as the glue holding together nuts and popcorn. In a more pliant form, it makes great caramel apples.  Cooked to a higher temperature the caramel can become brittle and is perfect for just that kind of candy making.


The longer caramel cooks, it takes on a deeper color and a darker flavor until the sugar becomes bitter and is no longer palatable.


Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-caramel-day-april-5/

Apr 04 - Carrots

In keeping with my trying to work this system better I am skipping cone day and going with International Carrot Day, don't see a national carrot day here in US - carrot cake day however is in Feb

 Fun Carrot Facts courtesy of Web MD


1. First Use
People first grew carrots as medicine, not food, for a variety of ailments.


2. They're How Old?
Carrots can be traced back about 5,000 years through historical documents and paintings. No one knows exactly when the first carrots appeared, because many people mistook them for parsnips, a close relative of the carrot.


3. Nutrition Facts
A medium-size carrot has 25 calories, 6 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of fiber. The veggie is an excellent source of vitamin A, providing more than 200% of your daily requirement in just one carrot. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, a natural chemical that the body changes into vitamin A. The deeper orange the carrot, the more beta-carotene you’re getting.


4. Carrot Colors
We think of carrots as orange, but they can also be white, yellow, red, and purple.


5. A Surprising Hater of Carrots
Mel Blanc, the voice of cartoon character Bugs Bunny, reportedly did not like carrots.

Apr 03 -Rainbows!!!!

It is National Find A Rainbow on this lovely sunny rain free day!!!


But none the less rainbows it is and as I am Irish that obviously means a pot of gold at the end:


"The Irish leprechaun's secret hiding place for his pot of gold is usually said to be at the end of the rainbow. This place is impossible to reach, because the rainbow is an optical effect which depends on the location of the viewer. When walking towards the end of a rainbow, it will appear to "move" further away (two people who simultaneously observe a rainbow at different locations will disagree about where a rainbow is). Also, a rainbow is in fact a full circle, we usually only see the half arc of it due to our positioning in respect to it; if you were to be positioned higher up (such as on a tall building or an airplane) then you could view it's actual full circle. So in reality there is no end to a rainbow, just as there is no end to a circle. Therefore, that 'end of the rainbow' is in other words an impossible/non-existent place." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leprechaun

A photo from home above and an Irish prayer below:

An Irish Prayer

May God give you... For every storm, a rainbow, For every tear, a smile, For every care, a promise, And a blessing in each trial. For every problem life sends, A faithful friend to share, For every sigh, a sweet song, And an answer for each prayer

April 02 - PB&J

Ok not a huge fan of this combo  - National Peanut Butter & Jelly Day so didn't want to waste my lovely bread from yesterday on it so I did some research and was pretty impressed with this....

Yes that is right, it is a peanut butter and jelly macaroon, really nothing else to say on this one 😎

April 01 - More carbs

Another month and more food, I am def worried I may not be able to continue for the year unless I can find more non food based ones - my wallet and waste line are seriously suffering 😁

This was relatively easy National Sourdough Bread day and finally a visit to Sullivan St Bakery which is so close it is dangerous I now how good the bread actually is!!!!

So freaking good but even worse while I was there these came out fresh to tempt me.....

But back to the sourdough pullman thanks to the article below sent by a good friend, Alisha, it seems it is actually the best bread to eat so no guilt necessary 😀

Check it out http://thenutritionwatchdog.com

Mar 31 - YAY

Another month down and what a great one to end with, National Tater Day. Now I am all about the potato, I am Irish after all and the stereotype fits.

Couldn't face tater tots for breakfast this morning but managed every other meal... Some baked potato chips with lunch

Fancied it up for after work some with a goat cheese and potato parfait, as one does

But I just didn't feel like I had lived up to the true meaning of potato day so it had to be curry cheese fries :) Thank you to the Irish Pub for having proper curry ...

Check out this article on the case and effects of the potato famine on Ireland.

Mar 30 - Pencils

Another, random why do we really need it holiday, National Pencil Day.

Now I will be honest I do prefer to write with a pencil  and seems I am in good company:


Notable pencil users (Wikipedia)

• Thomas Edison had his pencils specially made by Eagle Pencil. Each pencil was three inches long, was thicker than standard pencils and had softer graphite than was typically available.
• Vladimir Nabokov rewrote everything he had ever published, usually several times, by pencil.
  
• John Steinbeck was an obsessive pencil user and is said to have used as many as 60 a day. His novel East of Eden took more than 300 pencils to write.
  
• Vincent van Gogh used only Faber pencils as they were “superior to Carpenters pencils, a capital black and most agreeable.”
  
• Johnny Carson regularly played with pencils at his Tonight Show desk. These pencils were specially made with erasers at both ends to avoid on-set accidents.
  
• Roald Dahl used only pencils with yellow casing to write his books. He had six sharpened pencils ready at the beginning of each day and only when all six became unusable did he resharpen them.

 Hymen Lipman received the first patent for attaching an eraser to the end of a pencil on this day in 1858. The majority of these writing utensils made in the United States are painted yellow.  It is believed that this tradition began in 1890 when the L & C Hardtmuth Company of Austria-Hungary introduced their Koh-I-Noor brand, named after the famous diamond.  This pencil was intended to be the world’s best and most expensive pencil.  Other companies then began to copy the yellow color so that their pencils would be associated with the high-quality brand.


source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/2017/03/29/march-30-2017-national-pencil-day

Mar 29 - Not even sure why

Ok really I am so coming up with a national day coz this one seems a stretch ... National Little Red Wagon Day.

For nearly 100 years, Radio Flyer has been bringing smiles to kids of all ages and creating warm memories that last a lifetime. As a brand, Radio Flyer has always supported unstructured outdoor play and its positive impact on children. With their 100th anniversary on the horizon, Radio Flyer would like to establish a day that not only celebrates kids’ imaginations but the vehicles that help them explore it – their wagons.

This iconic toy is one of the most enduring toys of all time. For generations, children have led little red wagons down Independence Day parade routes, carried out infinite imaginary missions and voyages of childhood fantasy. It is not unusual for a little red wagon to be handed down from one generation to the next, treasured like a family heirloom.  The adventures are enjoyed by all, regardless of age.

National Little Red Wagon Day was founded by Radio Flyer in honor of their upcoming 100th anniversary which is this year.
The Registrar of National Day Calendar declared National Little Red Wagon Day in 2016.

And to celebrate well a little music of course, thanks Miranda :)

For those that want more substantial history on the red wagons check out the history of  Radio Flyer.

Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-little-red-wagon-day-last-wednesday-in-march/

Mar 28 - More Food

National Something on a Stick Day - sure why not.  




No street fair today which is a shame as am sure I could have come up with something from there but I have to say first thought was obviously ice cream, so I went with it picked up some for this rainy day and went home to enjoy!!

Was pretty tasty but have to say the choice at home is so much better and you can buy individual ones - a box of three is never a good idea :)

Mar 27 - Joe

Hmm not sure why Joe gets a day but today is National Joe Day!!! Did not manage to have a cuppa Joe with Joey here in the office - figured next best thing just go to Joe's café for it instead ??

The original plan was to have Spanish paella for that holiday but everywhere I looked that had the good stuff was a serving for two only, who knew, so have some good spots in mind for a bite with one of the crew at some stage this year !!!!

Mar 26 - Spinach

The only way I am eating spinach for National Spinach Day is creamed, with steak. Was slightly lazy and ordered in some from PJ Clarkes to a friends house and was pretty darn good.

An annual plant,  spinach is native to central and southwestern Asia. Thought to have originated in ancient Persia, Arab traders carried spinach into India, and then it was introduced into ancient China where it was known as “Persian vegetable   The earliest available record of the spinach plant was found in Chinese, saying that the spinach plant was introduced into China via Nepal.
During her reign as queen of France, Catherine de Medici was well known to have enjoyed spinach so much that it was served at every meal.  To this day, dishes made with spinach are known as “Florentine” reflecting Catherine’s birth in Florence.  Spinach is:

• Eaten raw or cooked and is available fresh, frozen or canned.
• One of the best sources of iron.
• An excellent source of calcium, folic acid, fiber, protein, calcium and vitamins A, C and K.
• Is loaded with cancer-fighting antioxidants
• Believed to help improve cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health.

Types of spinach:
Savoy:  dark green color with curly leaves; usually sold in fresh bunches.
Flat or Smooth Leaf:  broad, smooth leaves;  mostly grown for canned and frozen spinach as well as soups, baby food and processed foods.
Semi-savoy:  a hybrid variety with crinkly leaves:  is sold fresh and processed.

• Following China, the United States is the world’s second largest producer of spinach.
• California, Arizona and New Jersey are the top spinach producing states in the United States.

Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-spinach-day-march-26/

Mar 25 - Waffels

Well this was not my original plan but so much more cost effective!! I will get to Delmonico's one day for Lobster Newburg and the already missed Baked Alaska Day but for today International Waffle Day was perfect:

Surprisingly I never had waffles from this food cart but they were so good - hot and sticky for the sugar - a perfect start to the day :)




Now in research there is a waffle day in the US on August 24 this seems to originate from the Swedish one but seeing as I had Belgian Waffles I figure this works and am sure I will find something else to do on Aug 24 !!!

Mar 24 - Raisins

  Maybe I should do movie night tonight coz its National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day today so treats sorted now what movie should I watch - well I have all day to think about it !!!

In some countries, chocolate covered raisins are known as Raisinets. Raisinets were the earliest and one of the most popular brands of the product.  Currently made by Nestle, they are the third largest selling candy in United States history.  The Blumenthal Chocolate Company introduced the Raisinets to the United States in 1927, and then in 1984, the brand was acquired by Nestle.  There are also a large number of other brands of chocolate covered raisins on the market. 

Raisins are an excellent source of calcium, potassium, iron, fiber and vitamin B.  When you combine the raisins with dark chocolate, you have a great tasting, healthy snack.  


Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-chocolate-covered-raisin-day-march-24/

Mar 23 - Chia

Today is the first official National Chia Day so obviously I must do it!!!
App it was submitted by Mamma Chia in February 2016 by the policies set forth to designate a National Observation Day, this proclamation has been certified by the Registrar at National Day Calendar.


So the first thing I thought of for this was the Avocado toast with Chia seeds, citrus salt and extra virgin olive oil  at Le Pain Quotidien. Just healthy all around :)

This day recognizes the tiny, yet powerful chia seed that has earned its reputation as being one of the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet. Revered by the Maya and Aztecs for their amazing healing powers and natural energy, chia seeds have become a trusted staple for people around the world and can be enjoyed in many foods and beverages!
High in Omega-3s, antioxidants, fiber and complete protein, chia seeds are neutral in flavor and can be added to virtually any recipe to boost the nutritional profile.
Nutrition Facts:

• 8x more Omega-3s than salmon
• 25% more fiber than flaxseed
• 30% more antioxidants than blueberries
• 2x more potassium than bananas
• 6x more calcium than milk

Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-chia-day-march-23/

Mar 22- Goofing Off

Ok so wasn't able to do a full day for National Goof Off Day but I did double back on my way back to work yesterday from a doc's appointment and walked at a more leisurely pace than any sane New Yorker would consider.


I grabbed myself a hot apple cider and wandered thru Union Square Farmers Market even stopping at a stall or two to check out and even got to chat with some of the chefs picking up their supplies. Then it was back to subway and full speed ahead but what a great way to start my day......

Mar 21 - Baguette

Dear lord its National French Bread Day - why I don't care but what a great excuse to have just bread for dinner:)

This photo really doesn't do the bread justice but a trip to Maison Kayser by Columbus Circle after work and life is just better !!


French bread, also known as a baguette, is a long thin loaf made from basic lean dough. It is defined by its length and its crisp crust. Over time, French law has established what is and what is not a baguette.  Beginning in 1920 a labor law prevented bakers from starting their day before 4 a.m.  Bakers adjusted by shaping their loaves of bread, so they baked more quickly and evenly.  As a result, the long, narrow loaves were found to be convenient for slicing and storing. 
The French are known for their high standards where culinary arts are concerned.  To preserve quality in their bread, laws were passed requiring minimum quantities of certain quality ingredients in each loaf of bread.




source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-french-bread-day-march-21/

Mar 20 - Spring

Today is the First Day of Spring so of course I took the day off work and took a drive out of the city while it didn't go quiet to plan I did buy a fun colorful cushion to kick off the season  and started on a major spring clean ;)

March 19th - Nurses

Today is National Certified Nurse  Day - so a shout out to all the hard working men and women you know that work long hours to take care of us.

Certified Nurses Day

Mar 18 - Cookies

Ok so I will be honest there was no way I was shopping for or baking these cookies the day after St Patricks Day - seems I did decide to stop into bar on way home ......... I did look in a cookie place by me and nope not one in sight.

So in spirit I did celebrate National Lacy Oatmeal Crisp Cookies in that I did look up a recipe and in a couple weeks when I am casting and have access to a proper kitchen I will bake

Lacy Oatmeal Crisp Cookie Recipe


Update to come :)

Mar 17 - Home

Well this is an easy one - St Patrick's Day and here in the US - National Corned Beef and Cabbage Day!!

 Now while I would prefer bacon and cabbage it is not easy to find so I really have no choice. Also I refuse to face any of the pubs in the area tonight so thankfully the cafeteria at work has it on today no parsley sauce though :(

As most know corned beef is not something we eat in Ireland and def not on St. Patricks Day - very interesting article on the history by The Smithsonian Mag : Is Corned Beef Really Irish

Also check out the book 97 Orchard: An Edible History of Five Immigrant Families in One New York Tenement reviewed here  NY Times Review.

Mar 16 - Hearts

Artichoke Hearts that is :) Have to thank National Artichoke Hearts Day for leading me to a fun spot in the hood.


I have passed this pizza place so often but never went in but as it was the only place serving artichoke pizza in this weather it was the only option and what a find: Kiabacca, 639 10th Avenue

This was an amazing pizza - All Choked Up a white pie with artichoke hearts, spinach, pancetta, feta, fresh mozzarella, garlic infused olive oil.


As for artichokes themselves well according to the California Artichoke Advisory Board, artichokes are a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C, folate and magnesium.  The antioxidants in artichokes are very good for your liver and help promote healthy skin.  Artichokes are also high in fiber, calcium and protein while low in calories.  For all of these reasons, along with being fat-free and cholesterol free, artichokes are truly a healthy and delicious food to celebrate, though maybe not in the way I had them especially with a cider or two on the side  !!!!

• The total antioxidant capacity of an artichoke flower head is one of the highest reported for vegetables.
• The fleshy base of the artichoke is perhaps the most enjoyably edible part of this oddly-shaped vegetable. 
  
•  You can find artichoke hearts that are packed in vinegar, oil or marinade and canned.
• They make for a great low sodium snack and lend themselves well to other snacks like artichoke dip, as well as a pizza topping.
  
• Toss them in the skillet for a savory sauté.
• They might just turn into a healthy addiction!
• California is known as the artichoke capital of the world.  They supply nearly 100% of North American fresh artichokes.

source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-artichoke-hearts-day-march-16/

Mar 15 - Shoes

Great cause today - National Shoe the World Day


Each day over 500 million children, teens and adults around the world do not have a pair of shoes to wear, and despite the terrain and the climate, they have to walk barefoot everywhere. It is a struggle each day that we cannot begin to imagine.  Having to live a daily life without protection on your feet can lead to a lifetime of problems including pain, injury, cuts, sores, infections, parasites, banning from schools and other places and the list goes on.




I just donated to  Soles4Soles for this great cause. Or maybe visit  Toms and buy yourself a pair, one for one.

This day was created to bring awareness, to everyone across the nation, of the incredible need to help those people around the world that do not have shoes to wear and then to take action in helping.


National Shoe the World Day was inspired by Donald Zsemonadi and the United Indigenous People in Fontana, California in March of 2014.




Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-shoe-the-world-day-march-15/

Mar 14 - Crisps

The perfect lunch for National Potato Chip Day - so glad I dragged myself to Queens yesterday coz despite the weird looks from my co-workers you cannot beat a Tayto Crisp Sandwich :)

On August 24, 1853, an unhappy restaurant customer, complaining that his potatoes were too thick and soggy, kept sending them back.  Chef George Crum decided to slice the potatoes as thin as possible, frying them until crisp and added extra salt.  To the chef’s surprise, the customer loved them, and they soon became a regular item on the restaurant’s menu under the name of “Saratoga Chips.”
Alternative explanations of the beginning of potato chips date them to recipes in Shilling Cookery for the People by Alexis Soyer (1845) or Mary Randolph’s The Virginia House-Wife (1824).  There are many references between these dates to sliced potatoes being fried in grease but whether they were fried to a crisp is not clear.  
What is clear is that by the late 1870s, the term “Saratoga Chips” was being widely used as a standard menu item on train cars, hotel restaurants and street carts.  The name carried on into grocers when the chips were made in larger batches by bakeries.  They shipped them by wagon to the restaurants and groceries by the barrel, and the groceries would then sell to private families by the pound.  Folks were instructed to bake the chips in a hot oven for a few minutes, and they would be as crisp as if fried that same day.  


The Tayto founder: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/1361491/Joe-Spud-Murphy.html


source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/2017/03/13/march-14-2017-national-pi-day-national-potato-chip-day-national-learn-about-butterflies-day-national-childrens-craft-day/

Mar 13 - Tortes

Of course there is a National Coconut Torte Day and it is on the eve before the blizzard. I really did try and find one but by the time I hit my fourth store and saw the lines and lines of people and empty shelves I figured maybe I should just go to Queens and stock up for tomorrows holiday instead  :)


While there I did manage to find something coconut based which was as good as I remember :

Coconut covered marshmallow snowball - better than a torte any day!!!!

March 12 - Cookies

Not just any cookies - its National Girl Scout Day so obv Thin Mints :)

Girl Scouting in the United States of America began on this day, March 12, 1912, when Juliette Gordon Low organized the first Girl Scout troop meeting.  At this first troop meeting in Savannah, Georgia, there were 18 girls present.  For these girls, Juliette Gordon Low organized enrichment programs, service projects, and outdoor activities and adventures.  Since the time of the first meeting, Girl Scouts has grown to over 3.7 million members.








source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-girl-scout-day-march-12/

Mar 11 - Apples

Its National Johnny Appleseed Day so obviously cider right!!!

He was born John Chapman on September 26, 1774, in Leominster, Massachusetts to Nathaniel and Elizabeth Simons Chapman. Not much is known about his early life other than his mother died when he was two. His father packed up Johnny and his sister (an infant brother had died the previous year) and moved to Springfield, Massachusetts. His father served as a Minuteman and fought at Bunker Hill.
Then in 1797, Chapman shows up in northwestern Pennsylvania propagating his apple seeds and working his way steadily into the frontier of West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana and eventually as far west as Illinois and Iowa and as far north as Michigan and Wisconsin.
In his wake, he left orchards and the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg, a Swedish spiritual leader whose books he would buy with whatever payment he might receive for his endeavors. In turn, Johnny would give the books away as he traveled and planted.
Mostly, though, he planted his seeds and seedlings for free along with his wisdom, his broad-brimmed pasteboard hat keeping the sun from his eyes as he went. Often shoeless, he traveled mostly by foot and sometimes by horseback or canoe. His appearance was nearly as noteworthy as his accomplishments, but so was his kindness. There was always a place at the table if Johnny Appleseed were to come visiting.
There are many stories told that the man would travel many miles to nurse an ailing orchard when word would reach him of its poor condition. Bringing the trees back to health would be his chief endeavor while dispersing wisdom, care and kindness as he did.
Across the Midwest, landmarks pepper the countryside honoring the man that brought fruit to the frontier. Warren County, Pennsylvania lays claim to Johnny Appleseed’s first tree nursery.
Mansfield, Ohio honors the man with a monument in South Park.  The last known Chapman tree still lives! In rural Ashland County, Ohio, the tree struggles to survive but half of it still manages to bloom in the spring. 
In his hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts there is an entire park named after the man who nurtured the land and made apple trees bloom across a young nation.
Johnny Appleseed Day is celebrated on either March 11 or September 26. The September date is Appleseed’s acknowledged birth date. The March date is sometimes preferred due to the planting season. While there is some vagueness concerning Appleseed’s death and burial, it is known he became ill in early March and passed soon after.
National Johnny Appleseed Day is celebrated in many elementary schools across the country.


Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-johnny-appleseed-day-march-11/

March 10 - Packed Lunch

This was a relatively easy one seeing as I bring my lunch most days which is a huge money saver in NYC .. was a little shocked at the cost of my crab roll yesterday and you just cant beat the good old ham and cheese sandwich :)

March 09 - Crabs !!!!!

  Its ok we are talking crustaceans here and not one I usually go for I am def more of a lobster fan but in honor of National Crab Meat Day I rallied and hit up Luke's Lobster  for a yummy Crab Roll for lunch  ...

March 08 - Peanuts again

I believe this is Peanut month which might explain all the national peanut days and this is another one I can support National Peanut Cluster Day

I mean I really could have made - this peanuts and chocolate pretty simple but also so much easier to buy a bag - maybe one day I will have to actually make one of these dishes!!

March 07 - Cereal

Big fail on Kellogg's part, the cereal store here In Times Sq. which was the perfect spot to celebrate National Cereal Day is a temporary Pop Tart store????




So back to the original plan and very apt seeing as Oatmeal is where is all began!!

 Ferdinand Schumacher, a German immigrant, began the cereal revolution in 1854 with a hand oats grinder in the back room of a small store in Akron, Ohio. His German Mills American Oatmeal Company was the nation’s first commercial oatmeal manufacturer.  In 1877, Schumacher adopted the Quaker symbol, the first registered trademark for a breakfast cereal.




Granula, the first breakfast cereal, was invented in the United States in 1863 by James Caleb Jackson, operator of Our Home on the Hillside, which was later replaced by the Jackson Sanatorium in Dansville, New York.  The cereal never became popular since it was inconvenient as the heavy bran nuggets needed soaking overnight before they were tender enough to eat.




The cereal industry rose from a combination of sincere religious beliefs and commercial interest in health foods.  Dr. John Harvey Kellogg experimented with granola.  He boiled some wheat, rolled it into thin films, and baked the resulting flakes in the oven; he acquired a patent in 1891.  In 1895 he launched Cornflakes, which overnight captured a national market.


Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/2017/03/06/march-7-2017-national-cereal-day-national-pancake-day-ihop-national-crown-of-roast-pork-day-national-be-heard-day/

March 06 - Cookies

Seems like these are in everything these days, ice cream , chocolate bars, cakes but going with the classic to honor National Oreo Cookie Day...

And of course what better place to eat it then in Chelsea market where the National Biscuit Company (today known as Nabisco) first developed and produced the Oreo Biscuit in March 1912. Located on Ninth Avenue between 15th and 16th Streets. Today, this same block of Ninth Avenue is known as "Oreo Way.

March 05 - Doodles

Another perfect one for today - a quick trip to the store and home for a movie and snack coz it's  National Cheese Doodle Day ....

Sounds easy right, well 6 stores later and not a single Wise Cheese Doodle to be found, now I know I have seen them around but it feels like 20 degrees out there so cheese puffs will have to do 😬
I am assuming they taste the same but a taste test will be likely next time I find cheese doodles!

March 04 - cake

Well I tried to avoid food again today but I just couldn't find a G.I. to hug and trust me that was my first choice 😏  Instead a trip to Starbucks for a long time fav that is so high in Weight Watchers points I was only able to have a tiny tasting but it was so worth it - lemon pound cake on National Pound Cake Day ...yummy

Mar 03 - Unplugged

So this is starting a little later in the day than planned -for National Day of Unplugging, as I am on the computer / phone for work wasn't really possible but the deal is from 5.30pm onwards no texts, no Facebook, no instagram and no TV / Google am going to continue with my book and have a chilled evening.




So obv no picture can be posted either :)

March 02 - Books

Love this - its National Read Across America Day and World Book Day at home so perfect day to find a cozy spot and catch up on some reading :)

Each year, National Read Across America Day is celebrated on March 2nd, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. However, if it falls on a weekend, it is observed in the school systems on the school day closest to March 2nd.  This day is a motivational and awareness day, calling all children and youth in every community across the United States to celebrate reading. It was reading that was created by the National Education Association & the first National Read Across America Day was held on March 2, 1998.



Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-read-across-america-day-dr-seuss-day-march-2-unless-weekend/

March 01- Pigs!!!!

Another month down and a promise to post each day / night . Starting March off with pigs.....


Now this is a day used to recognize the importance of domesticated pigs, a highly clever and intelligent animal.  They are a household pet to some that can be trained and taught tricks.
In Dublin in 1772, a trained swine called the Learned Pig told time, counted and other such tricks to entertain crowds in the streets. 


Pigs have been popular storybook characters for generations. From A.A. Milne’s Piglet to E.B. White’s Wilbur, pigs have an endearing and flavorful quality about them that makes us love them.


There are hundreds of different breeds, most of which are descended from the Eurasian Wild Boar. 
 The female is called a gilt and can produce 10 piglets in a single litter. 


They also produce bacon, ham, baby back ribs, spare ribs, sirloin, pork belly and oh, so many more delectable barbecue items it would be a shame to not honor the swine on this day of all days.


Now is it wrong to honor such a wonderful animal by eating it - I am a huge bacon fan but have to say feeling a bit guilty about it today especially seeing as it is also Ash Wednesday!!




So a donation it is:  Pigs Peace Sanctuary came up straight away and I am a huge Seattle / Pacific Northwest fan

Source: http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-pig-day-march-1/

Feb 28 - PANCAKES

And not just any pancakes as close to home as possible to celebrate Pancake Tuesday / Shrove Tuesday / Fat Tuesday. So happy with this one as I do go every year for crepes with Alisha - somewhat of a tradition at this stage and tonight is no different!! And yes crepes are pancakes - they taste closer to the ones at home then the typical pancakes here in the US :)

A little lesson: Shrove Tuesday is a day of celebration as well as penitence, because it's the last day before Lent. Lent is a time of abstinence, of giving things up. So Shrove Tuesday is the last chance to indulge yourself, and to use up the foods that aren't allowed in Lent. Giving up foods: but not wasting them. In the old days there were many foods that observant Christians would not eat during Lent: foods such as meat and fish, fats, eggs, and milky foods. So that no food was wasted, families would have a feast on the shriving Tuesday, and eat up all the foods that wouldn't last the forty days of Lent without going off.

The need to eat up the fats gave rise to the French name Mardi Gras; meaning fat Tuesday. Pancakes became associated with Shrove Tuesday as they were a dish that could use up all the eggs, fats and milk in the house with just the addition of flour.

Source: http://www.thisischurch.com/christian_teaching/shrovetuesday.htm

Feb 25-27 Oops

Opps I swear I thought I posted these - I think I need to add the app to my phone ....


Feb 25:
This was an easy one National Chocolate Covered Nut Day, first choice was chocolate covered almonds but then this is kind of the same think cept better and with fruit:)

Feb 26:
I cant tell you how happy I was when Kirsty reminded me of this dish to celebrate National Pistachio Day as I really wasn't in the mood for a bowl of them. So great excuse to check out the Eataly located downtown and have the best pasta ever w/ pistachios of course !!!!

Feb 27:
Again another day out of peak season right up there with the apricots and plum pudding but none the less it is National Strawberry Day, for those interested June is the best time of the year!! I prefer mine in a dessert, ice cream, short cake, Eton mess , in a glass of champagne :) But that I will save for summer....