What is absolutely unique about you?
Melinda
Category: Fun
Today in History January 2, 2022
Welcome to the Weekend Edition of Today in History. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the post. Have an awesome weekend.
Welcome to the first Today in History of 2022.
1965
Joe Namath spurns NFL to sign record deal with AFL’s New York Jets
On January 2, 1965, quarterback Joe Namath spurns the NFL’s St. Louis Cardinals to sign with the American Football League’s New York Jets. The contract, reportedly for $427,000, is the most lucrative signed by a rookie in any sport. The deal with Namath, a star at the University …read more
1788
Georgia votes to ratify the U.S. Constitution, becoming the fourth state in the modern United States. Named after King George II, Georgia was first settled by Europeans in 1733, when a group of British debtors led by English philanthropist James E. Oglethorpe traveled up the …read more
1811
First censuring of a U.S. senator
Senator Timothy Pickering, a Federalist from Massachusetts, becomes the first senator to be censured when the Senate approves a censure motion against him by a vote of 20 to seven. Pickering was accused of violating congressional law by publicly revealing secret documents …read more
1492
The kingdom of Granada falls to the Christian forces of King Ferdinand V and Queen Isabella I, and the Moors lose their last foothold in Spain. Located at the confluence of the Darro and Genil rivers in southern Spain, the city of Granada was a Moorish fortress that rose to …read more
2009
Rare Bugatti found in British garage
On January 2, 2009, media outlets report that a rare unrestored 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante Coupe has been found in the garage of a British doctor. A month later, on February 7, the car sold at a Paris auction for some $4.4 million. The black two-seater, one of just 17 57S …read more
Melinda
Fun Facts That Will Amaze You
I’m so glad you are enjoying Fun Facts. I learn something new each week, even if it’s weird.
The most common wild bird in the world isn’t the sparrow or blue jay—it’s the red-billed quelea, which live in Africa and have an estimated population of 1.5 billion. (audubon.org)
The heart of the blue whale, the largest animal on earth, is five feet long and weighs 400 pounds. The whale in total weighs 40,000 pounds. (nationalgeographic.com)
For comparison, an elephant’s heart weighs around 30 pounds. And a human heart? A mere 10 ounces.
Elephants can’t jump. (smithsonianmag.com)
Octopuses have three hearts.
I love hearing your comments!
Enjoy!
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share *One by U2 & Mary J Blige *My Fav
I’m so glad you’ve joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
We have one life, we have to do what we should. One life…….we get to carry each other.
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share; the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the ‘Weekend Music Share‘ banner in your post, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Melinda
Friday Quote 12/31/2021
Have a great weekend!
So glad you stopped by today and look forward to hearing your comments.
Melinda
Happy New Year
2021 has been a challenging year, to say the least, but we’ve come out the other side and we’re stronger for it. I don’t know what 2022 holds, no of us do but I know that we all have the ability to control our destiny.
Happy New Year, 2022 is upon us and we can make it a great year.
Sending Good Karma to you for all of 2022!
Melinda
Solstice Holiday Sangria
Kombucha gives a nice fizz to this holiday sangria. Bonus: It’s full of probiotic bacteria that may help maintain a healthy gut.
Amber Turpin
Ingredients
Ingredient Checklist
- 1 (750 milliliter) bottle Spanish dry red wine, such as tempranillo
- 1 cup blood orange juice
- ½ cup brandy
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 2 oranges, preferably blood oranges, sliced
- 1 (12 ounce) bottle ginger kombucha
- Ice
Directions
- Step 1Combine wine, orange juice, brandy and sugar in a large pitcher. Stir well, then add orange slices. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 1 day.
- Step 2Add kombucha to the sangria and serve over ice.
Tips
To make ahead: Refrigerate sangria base (Step 1) for up to 1 day.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 cupPer Serving: 202 calories; protein 0.4g; carbohydrates 16.8g; dietary fiber 0.1g; sugars 12.2g; fat 0.1g; vitamin a iu 85.2IU; vitamin c 22.5mg; folate 13.6mcg; calcium 14.5mg; iron 0.9mg; magnesium 19.5mg; potassium 240.9mg; sodium 11.1mg; added sugar 8g. Exchanges:
1 1/2 alcohol equivalent, 1/2 other carbohydrate
Enjoy!
Melinda
Just Pondering
Where do you go to disconnect from your thoughts?
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday*Griffy
Thanks for stopping by today, I appreciate your comments each week.
Before haircut (yawning)
She’s sad after getting a haircut and only getting one snack.
Melinda
Today in History December 26, 2021
Welcome to the Weekend Edition of Today in History. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the post. Have an awesome weekend.
1946
Bugsy Siegel opens Flamingo Hotel
Mobster Bugsy Siegel opens the glitzy Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada on December 26, 1946.
Well-known singer and comedian Jimmy Durante headlined the night’s entertainment, with music by Cuban band leader Xavier Cugat. Some of infamous gangster Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel’s Hollywood friends, including actors George Raft, George Sanders, Sonny Tufts and George Jessel were in attendance.
1985
World-renowned primatologist Dian Fossey is found murdered in Rwanda
On December 26, 1985, primatologist and conservationist Dr. Dian Fossey is found murdered in her cabin at Karisoke, a research site in the mountains of Rwanda. It is widely believed that she was killed in connection with her lifelong crusade against poaching. An animal lover from …read more
1941
FDR establishes modern Thanksgiving holiday
President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs a bill officially establishing the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day. The tradition of celebrating the holiday on Thursday dates back to the early history of the Plymouth and Mass
1973
“The Exorcist” opens in theaters
On December 26, 1973, The Exorcist, a horror film starring the actress Linda Blair as a girl possessed by an evil spirit, makes its debut in theaters; it will go on to earn a reputation as one of the scariest movies in history. The Exorcist was based on William Peter Blatty’s …read more
2004
Tsunami devastates Indian Ocean coast
A powerful earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, on December 26, 2004 sets off a tsunami that wreaks death and devastation across the Indian Ocean coastline. The quake was the second strongest ever recorded and the estimated 230,000 dead made this disaster one of the 10 …read more
Melinda
Jingle Bell Rock by Bobby Helm
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
You Make It Feel Like Christmas Gwen Stefani Feat. Blake Shelton
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
Officially Christmas by Dan & Shay
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
It Was A Masked Christmas feat. Jimmy Fallon, Ariana Grande and Megan Thee Stallion**Funny!
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
Mis Deseos/Feliz Navidad by Michael Bublé Duet With Thalia
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
José Feliciano – Feliz Navidad with Daryl Hall (Live From Daryl’s House)
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
Hallelujah* A Must Listen!
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
Merry Christmas by Elton John and Ed Sheeran
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
The Chipmunk Song-Christmas Don’t Be Late
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday*Sun and Moon
Thanks for stopping by today, I appreciate your comments each week.
Melinda
The Mood-Boosting Benefits of Pets
Being a pet owner carries a lot of responsibility, but you can’t underestimate the benefits that come from pet ownership too. Whether you’re a dog owner, a cat lover, or a parent to a furry rodent or scaly reptile, you’ll find that there are endless unexpected advantages that arise from adding a pet to your family and the impact on your mood is just one of them.
To find out how a pet can change your outlook, take a look at these four mood-boosting benefits of pets now:
Photo by sergio souza on Pexels.com
Stress Reduction
Stress or anxiety can have a major impact on your mental health but spending time with your pets is known to reduce your stress response. In fact, some studies have even shown that petting a dog can reduce your blood pressure, which highlights just how effective pet ownership can be when it comes to alleviating stress. When you feel less stress, your mood naturally lightens, and your outlook is enhanced. In turn, this makes you feel more proactive and in control, which further helps to reduce anxiety and stress.
Ease Loneliness
Feeling lonely or isolated is often a precursor to low moods or depressive symptoms. After all, humans are social creatures and crave interaction. When the opportunity to meaningfully engage with others is reduced, it doesn’t take long for your mood to decline too. Fortunately, pets are a great source of companionship. Not only will they become a beloved family member, but your pet may also give you a reason to engage with other people too. Walking a dog, visiting stables, or even joining online groups to talk about pet care can be a great way to connect with people and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Promote Relaxation
An unrelenting schedule can leave you feeling burnt out and overwhelmed, which naturally impacts your mood. When you have a pet, however, you need to meet their needs and provide them with the environment they need to thrive. As well as giving your pet an appropriate amount of exercise, you’ll need to ensure that they have time to relax too. From snuggling up with your puppy on big dog beds or making time to chill out with your cat, encouraging your pet to relax gives you the opportunity to unwind too. Of course, relaxation is an instant mood-booster, so you can look forward to feeling happier and more content as well.
Create a Routine
Nearly all pets thrive when they have a routine in place. This might mean feeding your pet at the same time each day, providing them with exercise regularly, or simply devoting a certain portion of the day or evening to them. When you’re experiencing low moods, it’s easy to let the structure go out of your day, which is why pet ownership can be such an effective way of boosting your mood. When you have a reason to create a routine, you’ll feel the emotional benefits of this added structure too.
Are You Ready to Become a Pet Owner?
There are numerous benefits to having pets but it’s important to consider the practical implications of pet ownership too. However, if you have the time and space to provide a loving and nurturing home to a pet, you’ll find that they make a wonderful addition to any family.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Blue Christmas by Elvis Presley
Happy Holidays!
Melinda
10 At Home Winter Activities
If this winter looks a bit different than seasons past, here are a few at-home ideas to keep your spirits bright. Try them by yourself or with family-it doesn’t take much to bring a little cheer indoors when the weather outside is dreary.
Drink something hot
Build a blanket fort
Plan a movie night
Eat waffles for dinner
Soak in a detox bath
Put a puzzle together
Collect pinecones to make firestarters
Wear festive sweater
Make a wintery wreath
Listen to a cozy playlist
Enjoy!
Melinda
Merry Christmas
It may be hard to get in the spirit with all the wild weather, the media, and COVID going on but it’s a blessed time of year. It doesn’t matter what religion you are, it’s a great time to get into the giving spirit and enjoy time with family and friends.
Yes, it will look different again this year but here’s the thing, it’s going to look different every year. COVID isn’t going away anytime soon. It forces us to decide what is quality and worth the time. We’ve had to get creative in taking care of our mental health and helping others with theirs.
It’s all about perspective, we have a choice.
Have a blessed week.
Melinda
Today in History December 19, 2021
Welcome to the Weekend Edition of Today in History. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the post. Have an awesome weekend.
1843
“A Christmas Carol” is published
On December 19, 1843, Charles Dickens’ classic story “A Christmas Carol” is published. Dickens was born in 1812 and attended school in Portsmouth. His father, a clerk in the navy pay office, was thrown into debtors’ prison in 1824, and 12-year-old Charles was sent to work in a …read more
1972
Last lunar-landing mission ends
The Apollo lunar-landing program ends on December 19, 1972, when the last three astronauts to travel to the moon splash down safely in the Pacific Ocean. Apollo 17 had lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, 10 days before. In July 1969, after three years of preparation, the …read more
1917
National Hockey League (NHL) opens its first season
On December 19, 1917, Montreal teams win the first two NHL games played. In a 7-4 win over the Ottawa Senators, the Canadiens’ Joe Malone scores five goals. In his team’s 10-9 win over the Toronto Arenas, the Montreal Wanderers’ Harry Hyland also scores five goals. For nearly …read more
1984
Britain agrees to return Hong Kong to China
In the Hall of the People in Beijing, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang sign an agreement committing Britain to return Hong Kong to China in 1997 in return for terms guaranteeing a 50-year extension of its capitalist system. Hong Kong–a …read more
1997
“Titanic” sails into theaters
Director James Cameron’s epic drama Titanic, the story of the real-life luxury ocean liner that struck an iceberg and sank on its maiden voyage in 1912, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,500 passengers and crew, opens in theaters. Titanic catapulted its young stars Leonardo …read more
Melinda
Just Pondering
Can you treat yourself with softness when things are hard?
Melinda
How to be Happy! — Guest Blogger Happy Healthy Me – a Journey
‘The thing everyone should realise is that the key to happiness is being happy by yourself and for yourself’ – Ellen DeGeneres If you were asked the question ‘what is your ultimate goal in life?’ what would you say? For me, and I am sure for many people, it would be happiness. We all want […]
How to be Happy! — Happy Healthy Me – a Journey
Fun Facts That Will Amaze You
I’m so glad you are enjoying Fun Facts. I learn something new each week, even if it’s weird. I love hearing your comments!
Canada is south of Detroit (just look at a map)
The original name for the search engine Google was Backrub. It was renamed Google after the googol, which is the number one followed by 100 zeros. (about.google)
The oldest-known living land animal is a tortoise named Jonathan, who is 187 years old. He was born in 1832 and has lived on the island of St. Helena in the Atlantic Ocean since 1882. (guinnessworldrecords.com)
Bats are the only mammal that can actually fly.
Wombats are the only animal whose poop is cube-shaped. This is due to how its intestines form the feces. The animals then stack the cubes to mark their territory. (bbc.com)
Enjoy!
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share *It’s Begining To Look A Lot Like Christmas by Michael Buble
I’m so glad you’ve joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share; the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the ‘Weekend Music Share‘ banner in your post, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Melinda
Friday Quote 12/17/2021
Have a great weekend!
So glad you stopped by today and look forward to hearing your comments.
Melinda
lookingforthelight.blog 