National Espresso Day(recipes included)

National Espresso Day

November 23, 2021

Did you know there was a day set aside just to celebrate Espresso? Neither did I. 

Espresso is, originally, a type of coffee that is made with a special machine in which the hot water is pressed quickly over the coffee grounds, creating a richer, thicker, and creamier drink.

The word espresso is a borrowed word referring to coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee. The method of quickly pressing is similar to doing what English call "express" or the Italian word "espimere".

The first espresso machine was invented by Luigi Bezzera in Italy, in 1901. His objective was to shorten employee breaks and speed up productivity.

Ok y'all. I am starting this post with one of those I was today years old moments!

How have I gone 41 years, and be an admitted coffee addict, and I did not know you could have an actual Espresso machine in your house!

I mean, I knew there was a special machine and technique, but I did not realize there were different sizes, types, and prices!

When I think of an espresso machine/maker, my mind instantly goes to some massive contraption in a busy little cafe'. All the levers, and gadgets, and the steam!

While doing my research for this post, by simply googling the word espresso, a ton of espresso machine/makers came up under Google shopping!

I mean tons! Big, little, pricey, affordable, electric, stove top...

How did I not know this? I never thought there was such a thing that a middle class household could afford or have the counter space for!

I'm so hooked. I have been now searching, researching, and deciding which one I want! I love the idea of the mini version of an actual café looking espresso machine, like this one,

Farberware traditional espresso maker

or if I want something a little more vintage looking to go better with my kitchen.

Primula stove top 6 cup espresso maker

I have an electric stove, so either choice would technically be using electric, although the first choice claims to have a cup of espresso in under one minute. That leaves the question, speed over aesthetic. For me anyway.

Now that I know we will be adding one of these, you know I had to go over to Pinterest and find some easy and yummy recipes.

And...before I share those, let me just let you in on another little secret. I had no idea that a cappuccino, mocha, macchiato, and lattes, are all  types of espressos, and are made using an espresso machine(jaw drop)

Please tell me I'm not the only one.

Now, I'll share a few recipes with y'all.

Honey Cinnamon Latte

Paris black Chocolate Macchiato

Vanilla Espresso Martini

Y'ALL, I cannot with these recipes! This could quickly become a problem. LOL

As if I need another excuse to live by the name CoffeeWastedMomma!

I'm gonna be unstoppable!

Join me and let's compare. Does anyone already own one? Do you have a favorite recipe?

I would LOVE to know! 

Now, Go celebrate National Espresso Day!

How to Build Confidence in Our Children

National Youth Confidence Day

is

October 20th 

Confidence by definition is,

• The feeling or belief that one can rely on someone or something; strong trust
• The state of feeling certain about the truth of something
• A feeling of self-assurance arising from one's appreciation of one's own abilities or qualities.
• Similar to: trust, faith self-assurance, belief, credence, conviction, reliance

I feel such a need to write this post. I am a mother of three girls, and I have seen how quickly their confidence can whither. It may be for a few hours, days, or weeks. I know how it feels to have one event or test crush every ounce of confidence you had.

I am a firm believer in building each other up! Spread kindness and acknowledge someone's strengths and accomplishments, no matter how small.

Having confidence isn't about boasting or being arrogant, and I think somewhere along the way, it has been given that vibe. We've lost the true definition and replaced confidence with words like diva, cocky, and sassy. We've allowed bad behavior and disrespect to be diluted and made to look "cute" or given an excuse for it.

"Boys will be boys."

"She gets it from me."

"She/he won't take any crap."

I'm just using these as examples.

I want to use this post as an example, or guide, to get back to building the confidence in our youth in a positive way.

 Now, I'm not saying every kid, parent, or adult is going around encouraging or flaunting bad behavior.

I just think we can all use a boost in the right direction. A positive reinforcement to pass on to the younger humans. 

Be an example.

"Children will follow your actions before they repeat your words."

Here I have listed a few books that help parents encourage and teach self-confidence.

Being Me: A Kid's Guide to Building Confidence and Self-Esteem by Wendy L. Moss

Empowering Teens to Build Self-Esteem by Suzanne E. Harrill

Bully Busters and Beyond by Phil Nguyen

Raise Your Child's Self-Esteem!:99 Easy Things to Do by Nancy E. Krulik

Positive Self-talk for Children!:A Parent's Guide by Douglas Bloch

There is so much sadness, hurt, uncertainty, and meanness in the world right now. It is heartbreaking.

 I know I want to build my children up as much as possible. Many people need that reassurance every day.

 I like being reassured and acknowledging my own accomplishments.

I like knowing I have support and a cheering team.

Who doesn't need a confidence booster every once in a while?

Can you imagine how humanity could change if we gave out just one compliment or encouraged someone every day?

It takes less energy to be kind than it does to be mean.

For me, I feel better about myself(more confident) when I am showing kindness or complimenting others.

Sometimes, as parents, we forget to build up our children. Sometimes, we unintentionally break down their confidence.

I know I am guilty. We get busy, tired, or distracted. We get aggravated and frustrated. There are times, we don't even think twice about something that is important to them.

Little things to us, may be huge to them.

Let's build up their confidence. Even in little ways.

Here are some great ways to enforce this.

I really want to continue this post and lean more into positive affirmations. Not only for youth, but for anyone.

It isn't just the younger ones that need these.

Let's build each other up and spread healthy confidence in each other!

Happy Youth Confidence Day!

Go give someone a compliment!

National Coffee Day!

National Coffee Day!

It's gonna be a great day!

Hi y'all.

I really love doing these "Fun National Holiday" posts. It's just fun to celebrate and learn something new.

You know this will probably be one of my favorites.

National Coffee Day began on September 29, 1983, in Japan as a way to promote fair trade and to raise awareness for the plight of coffee growers. 

The beginnings of coffee:

It is believed that in Ethiopia, Kaldi, a goat herder, noticed his herd having an energetic manner and being unable to sleep after eating berries from a certain tree.

It is said that Kaldi shared his finding with an abbot, who proceeded to make a drink from the berries, and discovered he could stay awake longer hours during prayers.

Coffee moves east:

After word spread of this energizing drink, "coffee" spread to the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, Egypt, Turkey, and, Syria in the 15th century. This is around the time that coffee houses, known as qahveh khaneh which were used as entertaining and meeting houses.

By the 17th century it had been brought to Europe, quickly became popular and spread across the continent.

Some were feared or were suspicious of the beverage and referred to it as "bitter invention of Satan".

Coffee quickly replaced the breakfast beverage of beer or wine, and people became more alert and able to focus on their work.

By the mid 1600s there are reported to have been over 300 coffeehouses in London alone!

Modern day coffee:

Coffee was brought to what is now New York, by the British around the mid 1600s, although it didn't gain popularity as quickly here.

It wasn't until 1773, when the colonists revolted against a heavy tax on tea imposed by King George III. The revolt, known as the Boston Tea Party, would forever change the American drinking preference to coffee. 

By the 1800s coffee was produced and shipped all over the world.

The first coffee maker, made in 1818 was the percolator. Invented by a Persian metalsmith. His percolator design is still used today.

Here's my favorite part!

In 1886, Joel Cheek, began making Maxwell house. He named the brand after the famous hotel.

The first espresso machine was made in 1901 by Luigi Bezzera.

In 1971 the first Starbucks opened in Seattle, Washington.

In 2020 studies showed that Folgers Coffee was named the most popular brand among Americans.

We know that today we can choose from a wide variety of coffee drinks. You can get it hot or cold. Regular or decaf. Breakfast, mild, medium, Columbian blends.

There are frappés, lattes, iced coffee, espressos, cappuccinos. There are even coffee flavored energy drinks, but I'm still unsure why. Coffee is already a caffeine.

Oh, and the creamers, sweeteners, and more! There are a ton of ways to enjoy your coffee.

On a regular day, I'm a Maxwell House, bold blend, with half-and-half.

If it's from a coffeehouse, usually I'll go for basic iced coffee, one shot sweetener, and cream.

I do occasionally get one of the seasonal or fancier choices, usually something mocha or white chocolate, but I have to be careful. I mean, I am the #coffeewastedmomma

So, I have to limit myself...

I do.

This is the coffee maker that I own, and we love it. My daughter and I love the single brew/Kerig for our "fancy coffees", and I love the programmable 12 cup side. My husband leaves at 5am, so having his coffee already to go when he is, works great!

Plus, he only takes about 8 or 9 of the cups, so when I get up at 6am, the other 3/4 cups are still hot and ready for me. It has a two-hour time after brewing, and then the burner shuts off automatically.

Hamilton Beach Flexbrew Coffeemaker

My daughter has really been wanting one of the iced coffee makers, but we've not found an affordable one. Also, I'm not sure if we would use it enough to make it worth it, or we'll use it way too much!

Either way, I'm holding out on that purchase for now.

What is your favorite coffee maker?

I love going to Pinterest to find new, easy recipes for coffee drinks. Especially now, with the holidays coming around, and all the warm flavors being more available.

How do you like your coffee?

Do you have a favorite drink recipe you'd like to share?

Does anyone buy coffee beans and grind them at home?

I would LOVE to do this more. I do own an antique coffee grinder, but it is a more decorative piece than functional.

Any recommendations on a new one?

Here is a bit of my coffee obsession. I love collecting coffee mugs. The wackier, the better.

Hope everyone enjoys their day!

Celebrate National Coffee day!

Make sure to comment your favorite or choice of coffee for today!

Constitution Day 2021

 The History of Constitution Day

We The People...

 Origins and fun facts

There is quite a history and a lot of changes to what is today's Constitution Day.

Originally called I am an American Day, which began being celebrated every third Sunday in May 1940.

This was started by the suggestion of a NY news tycoon, William Randolph Hearst and was presented by President Harry Truman, setting aside this date to honor the American people, with those just immigrating into the United States.

With Hearst's popularity and efforts through the United States Immigration and Naturalization, in 1944 he sponsored a 16-minute film titled, I am an American. It became a hit.

In the next 5 years, the governors of the existing forty-eight states had issued state proclamations in agreement with the national holiday.

In 1952, Olga T. Weber petitioned to have the date changed to September 17th, in honor of the date the constitution was signed. She went all the way up to the United States Congress, and in 1953, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it. Changing the name to Citizenship Day and moving it to September 17.

Louisville, Ohio was the first city in the United States to celebrate Citizenship Day on September 17, 1952.

Louise Leigh studied the Constitution in her courses and was inspired to spread her knowledge and love of the Constitution. In 1997 she founded a nonprofit organization called Constitution day, Inc. to spread recognition of this important national holiday. Through her efforts, Constitution Day became an official holiday alongside Citizenship Day in 2004. 

The Constitution of the United States of America

We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

It is the supreme law of the United States of America. This founding document originally comprising seven articles, delineates  the national frame of government.

The Constitution was written during the Philadelphia Convention-now known as the Constitution Convention.

The purpose of it was to create a government that had enough power to act on a national level, but not so much power that fundamental rights would be at risk.

The signing took place on September 17, 1787 at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

There were 39 delegates, representing 12 states, at the signing.

When the Constitution was signed, the United States population was 4 million.

The oldest person to sign was Benjamin Franklin(aged 81 @signing)

The youngest was Jonathan Dayton(26) of New Jersey

Patrick Henry was elected as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, but declined.

The word "democracy" does not appear in the Constitution

Daniel Webster, of Massachusetts, was called the "Expounder of the Constitution"

Thomas Jefferson nor John Adams signed the Constitution, as they were both serving out of the country.

George Washington and James Madison are the only two presidents to sign the Constitution.

It took 100 days to actually "frame" the Constitution

Pennsylvania is misspelled in the Constitution. (Pensylvania)

Those are a few of the fun facts I learned today. You can go through them all here:

Constitution Fun Facts

I'm always fascinated by history. No matter our feelings or beliefs, on any matter, I feel knowledge is still our best asset.

Today, we celebrate Constitution Day.

I choose to be proud of the dedication, work, and thoughtfulness of the Founding Fathers.

Although, I may not agree 100% with all the Constitution, it is one of the greatest documents.

It may have been just the beginning. We don't know how they felt about the timeline or changes to be made. For them, it was a starting point. It was a document to give order and peace to The United States of America.

Our country has come a long way in 234 years.

Enjoy your day!

Blessings.

National Vinyl Record Day

 National Vinyl Record Day!

How cool is that?

I've always been pulled back into my childhood when I think about vinyl records. Being born in 1980, to me, it was the time of change between 8 tracks and records. Although, that really isn't factual.

8 tracks actual came out in September 1965, and records were out way before that. Almost 100 years before that.

My mom had/has a TON of records. Have you ever seen a picture or scene in a movie where the girl is laying in her room with records everywhere? Piled or strewn around as she listens. Yup! That was my mom,...and my sister and me.

The first record ever made wasn't even made of vinyl. Nope, it was made from shellac. Many inventors had been trying for years to find a way to record sound and be able to play it back.

Thomas Edison actually did record himself saying a piece of the nursery rhyme, Mary Had a Little Lamb, on a phonograph in 1877.

10 years later in 1887, German inventor, Emile Berlinger created the first device that recorded and played back sound on a lateral-cut flat disc, the forerunner of the modern record.

He founded the United States Gramophone Company in 1894.

It really is fascinating. Whether you speak German or not, it is pretty cool to hear the first recorded record.

CLICK HERE

In 1948, Columbia Records released the first actual record made from Vinyl.(Shellac records stopped being produced completely in 1960)

Vinyl is Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC)

This was a huge upgrade. Prior to vinyl, shellac records could only hold/record 1 song on each side. Approximately 5 minutes of music. Vinyl made it possible to record whole albums of songs.

Can you imagine being a teenager during this time?

It would be like in the 90's when we didn't have to rewind or fast-forward our cassettes. We could just choose a number of the song we wanted on a CD and play it right where we wanted it to start.

These kids would be mind-blown!

There are now, 7 main types of records.

LPs-long playing

10 inch(long playing microgroove records)

7 inch-singles

12 inch-albums(single cut at 45 RPM)

EP-extended play(somewhere between single play and LP)

Flex Disc(flexible, super thin disc)

Dub Plate(popular with DJs)

From 1887 until the 1960s records and record players were improved and standardized, with 33 and 45 RPM records supplementing most other formats in the years after WWII.

What we see today is pretty much been the standard record since around 1970.

Even with records remaining and being considered durable, we've still been through 8 tracks, cassettes, CDs, and MP3 players.

Surprisingly, in 2020(wasn't a total bust), vinyl record sales actually surpassed the sale of CDs.

Surveys have shown it isn't Gen X or Boomers doing the majority of buying, either. It actually is Millennials doing all the vinyl record buying!

Retro is in, I guess. I'll take it. 

Again, there is something totally nostalgic about a vinyl spinning out our favorite tunes.

A couple of the biggest selling albums today are,

Michael Jackson-Thriller

The Beatles- Abbey Road Anniversary Edition

If you don't have a record player, there are tons of options available from new, vintage or used.

Shut. The. Front. Door!

Check out this vintage looking gramophone!

Vintage Gramophone @HomeDepot

Gorgeous!

I would love it!

I could also go for something more modern and retro, like this

Crosley Journey Turntable in Turquoise

Both are beautiful, and I can see myself listening to records for hours!

What is your favorite style?

Do you still own any "Vinyl"?

I hope you've enjoyed learning as much as I have. Happy National Vinyl Day!

National "Get Out of the Doghouse" Day!

 National Get Out of the Doghouse Day!

Why do we use this phrase, and where did it even start?

I'm so glad you asked. I'm going to fill you in soon. I have always been one of those people that like to know the how's and why's before I share any information. I have to at least try to dig into the history or facts about what ever it is. 

 E.g. Why do people say someone is "piss poor" or that it is "raining cats and dogs"?

Those are a couple of fun ones I looked up. You'll have to do your own digging on those and maybe some others.

Now, back to today's fun saying.

"Get Out of the Doghouse"

It is celebrated every year on the third Monday of July.

The phrase is known to be used when someone(spouse, friend, other), is in trouble or out of favor with the other. It is used as a punishment for their transgression. A shaming tactic.

I'm sure we all know what it means or how it is used, but do you know why we say it or where it started?

Would you believe it began in a classic children's book we all know, fairly well, I'd say?

It all started in 1911 in the story of Peter Pan, written by J.M Barrie.

That's right!

In chapter 16, Mr. darling is feeling guilty that the children flew away, and he consigns himself to the "doghouse" or kennel, as is the case in the book.

Quote:

"When the children flew away, Mr. Darling felt in his bones that all the blame was his for having chained Nana up, and that from first to last she had been wiser than he. Of course, as we have seen, he was quite a simple man; indeed he might have passed for a boy again if he had been able to take his baldness off; but he had also a noble sense of justice and a lion's courage to do what seemed right to him; and having thought the matter out with anxious care after the flight of the children, he went down on all fours and crawled into the kennel. To all Mrs. Darling's dear invitations to him to come out, he replied sadly but firmly:

"No, my own one, this is the place for me.""

This may be why we associate the phrase more toward men. Who knows?

This is where the phrase or the idea originated, but the first actual printed "in the doghouse" verses Mr. Darling consigning himself to the kennel; actually can be found in James. J. Finerty's 1926 glossary of the language of criminals, Criminalese, in which being "in the doghouse" is described as being "in disfavor"

Not a big gap between Children's class literature and Criminal language.

Funny how that happens. 

The next confirmed print of the term is found in 1933 in an Iowa newspaper, Waterloo Daily, in which the "poor French ambassador" is being described as "still in the doghouse."

Books used for references:

Peter Pan: With original 1911 illustrations

How to Stay Out of the Doghouse by Josh Rubin

Scholastic Dictionary of Idioms

I think the phrase has definitely become more popular, and widely used, over time.

We've probably all said it once or twice, whether we put someone there, or were there ourselves.

I hope you've enjoyed today's post and our fun facts about our National Fun Holiday.

National Different Colored Eyes Day!

 National Different Colored Eyes Day!

Y'all! I am so, so super stoked to do this one! 

If I had a dollar for every time someone has looked straight at me and asked, "Do you know your eyes are two different colors?"(Here's your sign!)

I would be one rich momma! Yup!

Yours truly!

This day was meant for me!

The medical term is actually Heterochromia. It means a variation in color of the iris. The word is derived from Ancient Greece where "heteros" means different and "chroma" means color. 

Heterochromia is determined by the production, delivery, and concentration of melanin(pigment). It may be inherited, or caused by genetic mosaicism, chimerism, disease, or injury.

According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information center, most cases of heterochromia of the eye occur sporadically in people with no family history of the condition.

Most cases are present from birth and are called genetic heterochromia.

People who develop it later on in life due to illness, injury, or medication are considered acquired heterochromia.

There are 3 types of Heterochromia.

Central heterochromia:

It is when the irises match each other but have a ring of different color around the pupils. Although not as striking as the other two types, central heterochromia is the most common type. For instance, someone with blue eyes may have an inner brown ring around the pupil.

Segmental heterochromia:

It is also known as heterochromia iridis, occurs when a patch of different color appears in one iris. Most common is blue eyes, with one having a brown speck or patch in the iris. This type is usually the most noticeable do to the drastic difference from one eye to the other due to the patch of color showing in only one eye.

Complete heterochromia:

It is also known as heterochromia iridum, occurs when the two irises are completely different colors.

This is the rarest type and most likely to be genetic and born with the condition. Less than 200,000 Americans have been found to have complete heterochromia.

(This is the type that I have)

There are quite a few celebrities that actually have heterochromia. Some are extremely noticeable, as in David Bowie(complete), while another like Simon Pegg's(segmental) are not as extreme.

A few more to list are:

Mila Kunis

Jane Seymour

Dan Aykroyd

Joshua Henderson

Kiefer Sutherland

Elizabeth Berkley

and 

Christopher Walken

There are several more you can read about and learn the types they have, which were born this way and which acquired it from injury or other.

Celebrities with Heterochromia

I learned that even with all of these well known people, and myself having heterochromia, it is still considered a rare condition. 

Heterochromia affects less than 1% of total human population!

I know some of you are thinking...because, I have heard this a million times.

"Wow, I've seen dogs with that!"

Yes, I'm sure we've all seen a dog or cat with different colored eyes. It definitely is more common in animals. I just didn't want to get into a whole other part of DNA and genetics with this post. You can learn more about heterochromia in animals by clicking the link a little farther down the page.

Since, I do actually have this, I wanted to learn more and share what I found.

You can always do some extra digging to find out more.

Here are just a couple refs. I pulled up.

American Academy Ophthalmology(AAO)

Heterochromia in Animals

I hope you've enjoyed today's post and maybe even learned something new.

I know I found a few statistics I didn't know and a few celebrities I wasn't aware had heterochromia.

Do you know anyone with this condition?

I'd love to hear about it.

Share pics/email or just comment and let me know!

Here's my little selfie collage!

National Sugar Cookie Day!

 Ohhhh, Sugar Sugar... Cookie

Today is National Sugar Cookie Day!

To celebrate National Sugar Cookie Day, I thought I would share a little about myself and my family before getting into our history and fun facts' part of the post.

I don't know about anyone else, but sugar cookies are a staple food in my family! We have a secret Mamaw recipe. Don't ask for it, I won't give it out, but I guarantee you, if you come over on ANY holiday, there will be sugar cookies to taste!

I'm not even kidding. My Mamaw has 3 of those Christmas variety popcorn tins absolutely full of cookie cutters. She also has given a few to the grandkids to use in their homes. I could easily guess, she has 100s of cookie cutters.

If she is rockin' her shower cap and whips out the rolling pin, it is on!

Go time!

It is such a special time for all of us. Not only is it fun and yummy, it is a great time to be with family. It is also a pretty good skill to know. Baking!

Well, I didn't exactly master that one. If it was my job to bring cookies to the school party, you'd be getting store bought. I just cannot do it! I, either end up with one huge pancake cookie or they are dry and burnt.

I'll leave the baking to the family pros and stick with the easy, cheater kind if we aren't having a family cookie party soon.

Pilsbury Ready to bake* Sugar Cookies

The sugar cookie is believed to date all the way back to the mid-1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania.

German Protestant settlers created round, crumbly and buttery tasting cookie that came to be known as the Nazareth Cookie. The sugar cookie is, basically, what I call the "original cookie". It really is amazing just as it is. Warm, sweet, and just soft enough to melt in your mouth.

Don't look at it as a plain, basic cookie. Look at it as the base or starting point of a ton of cookies!

Take your "basic" sugar cookie dough and add to it.

Add peanut butter= peanut butter cookie

Add chips=Chocolate chip cookie

Add cinnamon=Snickerdoodle

Add oats and raisins= Oatmeal/raisin cookies

You get the idea. One other way to jazz up your sugar cookie is icing it.

Today, sugar cookies have become an art form, with making and decorating for people of any age.

Cookie decorating dates even farther back than the sugar cookie. It seems around the 14th century, Switzerland had cookie molds that they used to impress biblical designs into cookies.

If you are the type to put "icing" on your cookie, it may be fun to know that icing actual came before frosting.

Icing was first used around 1683, while frosting was first attested in 1750.

I am a fan of old-fashioned buttercream icing.

It could be, just nostalgia, but it will always be my favorite.

What type do you prefer? Frosting, icing, buttercream, cream cheese, whipped.

If you aren't a baker, be sure to click the highlighted link above to grab some easy break and bake sugar cookies!

Do you have a certain holiday that brings out your baking skills?

I'd love to hear about it. Any tips for the non-bakers out here?

Have a great day and go celebrate National Sugar Cookie Day!

National Bikini Day!

 National Bikini Day!

Hello, and welcome to our next National Fun Holiday.

I actually found out a ton of interesting things about the bikini. I was trying to figure out the best way to give you all this information and keep it in order. Since I found bits and pieces all over, I didn't want to give it to you that way. I've decided to do this post in a written timeline sort of way. Bear with me, we'll get there!

When asked, when did the bikini start or How old is the bikini most people, myself included, probably assume around the mid 20th century.

Well, we aren't completely wrong.

Let's get started on this timeline.

5600 BC~ Evidence of bikini-style women's clothing has been found that far back. Illustrations of women wearing these garments during sporting or competitive events in the Roman era have been found in several locations, the most popular being, Villa Romana del Casale.

I'm not great with numbers, so I hope I'm putting these in the correct order. biggest first, lowest later? Is that right? Until AD?

1400BC~two-piece garments worn by women for athletic purposes are depicted on Greek urns and in paintings.

Active women of ancient Greece wore a breastband called a mastodeton, which continued to be used as an undergarment into the middle ages. Bottom garments were called subligaria. Which is similar to the "high waisted" brief style.

286-305 AD~ During an excavation in the 1950/the 60s there was a mosaic artwork floor discovered depicting 10 women in athletic style garments in an obvious competition. 

It has actually been dubbed, "Bikini Girls".

Nowhere in history, to this point indicated "bikinis" were made or used for swimming or sunbathing. they were more likely a sporting uniform garment.

Jumping forward. I honestly couldn't find anything else until the 1900s. 

1946~

Now, we get to the actual BIKINI!

July 5, 1946, in Paris, the bikini made its debut.

French designer Louis Reard named this new two-piece swimsuit after Bikini Atoll, where the USA conducted atomic tests. Thinking it would make an explosive statement. (He wanted to name it "atom") True story, although I don't think it would have become as popular.

Europe enthusiastically donned the new two-piece swimsuit, other countries, including the United States, weren't quite ready for such an immodest garment.

Several countries actually banned the buying and wearing of any such garment.

There are still a few that it is illegal to, even today.

Actress Carole Landis

1954~

 French film The Girl in the Bikini starring Brigitte Bardot, showed one of the first bikinis ever seen on television. Bardot has been credited with popularizing the bikini and making it a classic summer style.

1960s~

By the 1960s the United States and other countries had gone bikini bonkers!

Beach-themed movies poured out in abundance!

~Where the Boys Are

~Gidget Goes Hawaiian

~Bikini Beach

~How to Stuff a Wild Bikini (I'm a bit scared to ask about this one)

~Dr. Goldfoot and the Bikini Machine

~For Those Who Think Young

~The Horror of Party Beach

~Clambake

~Blue Hawaii

~Beach Blanket Bingo

~A Swingin' Summer

~Ghost in the Invisible Bikini (Y'all, I can't make these up.)

I'm sure there are a ton more! It is clear that the United States lost all public modesty in the 1960s!

~1988

By then, the original designer had died, and his company had folded. Still, the bikini made up 20% of swimwear purchased that year.

~1990s

With people becoming more conscious about UV rays and skin cancer, the more modest "tankini" or fuller tops became popular. 1997, Malia Jones appears on the cover of Shape Magazine wearing the halter top two-piece bikini for rough waters. Setting, a short-lived hype.

~2000s

People seemed to move away from the risks and bikinis again became skimpy and revealing

~ the 2020s

Most popular bikini styles for today's women

Tie front/High waist

One strap top/Hipster bottoms

Squareneck top/Standard Bikini bottom ~ this one is my personal favorite.

Today, you can find just about any type of bikini.

Skimpy, sporty, modest, thong, string, strapless...

They say there is a swimsuit for every girl and every body type.

I have a few styles that I'm comfortable in, but it definitely is a struggle. Our bodies sometimes change as quickly as fashion. (or the image of our bodies, more likely)

Anyway, I say

~WEAR THE BIKINI~

Have fun. Be comfortable. You go do your thing!

I really do have so much fun getting pulled down the rabbit hole with these posts!

#historynerd

Please, like, love, comment, share!

I love feedback. 

To celebrate National Bikini Day!!!

It's going to be 92F here in Ohio today!

I definitely will be rockin' my bikini, hangin' out in the kiddie pool today!

International Joke Day!

 Today is

International Joke Day!

Knock, knock.

Who's there?

Water.

Water who?

Water you asking so many questions for, just open up!

A joke by definition is a display of humor in which words are used within a specific and well-defined narrative structure to make people laugh and are not to be taken seriously.

Jokes come in a variety of styles, themes, and subjects.

Riddles, knock knock, Yo momma, wit-wordplay, what do you call a... , the blonde, the rabbi, satire, puns, why did the chicken cross the road...

There probably is a joke about everything! From corny to raunchy, there is some type of humor for everyone.

Want to hear the oldest "Yo Momma" joke? (Ancient Rome, between 63BC to 14AD)

"The Emporer Augustus was touring the Empire, when he noticed a man in the crowd who bore a striking resemblance to himself.

"Intrigued he asked: Was your mother at one time in service at the palace?'

"No your Highness,' he replied, 'but my father was.'"

Ouch! Burn!

Have you ever wondered how jokes got started? Who was the first to have a sense of humor?

Historic researchers have dated the earliest written joke back to 2300B.C., during the Old Babylonian period. 

The joke goes, "Something which has never occurred since time immemorial; a young woman did not fart in her husband's lap."

Y'all men have been telling fart jokes and cracking on their wives since 2300B.C.!

Guys, you weren't funny back then, and you still aren't! (usually) Ha!

The oldest joke book dates back to the 4th or 5th century AD.

Philogelos (Greek for love of laughter), is a collection of 265 jokes. The book is not attributed to a single writer, but many.

You know the phrase, that's the oldest joke in the book?

Well, it's not THE oldest joke, but one of the top 10 oldest jokes actually is

"An intellectual came to check in on a friend who was ill. When the man's wife said that he had departed, the intellectual replied: 'when he arrives back, tell him that I stopped by.'"

and it's in the book!

During the 15th century, the printing revolution spread across Europe following the development of a movable type printing press. Printers turned out "jestbooks" along with Bibles to meet both lowbrow and highbrow interests of the people.

Did you know jokes are good for your health?

It's true.

Laughter really is the best medicine!

Laughing is a natural stress relief. Laughter can lighten your mental stress, but it also causes physical changes.

Some short term results are:

1. stimulating your organs by intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulating your heart, lungs, and muscles

2. Releases endorphins

3. Activates and relieve your stress response helps regulate your heart rate

4. Soothe tension. laughter stimulates circulation and aid muscle relaxation

Long term effects:

1.Improve your immune system. Positive thoughts can release neuropeptides that help fight stress.

2. Relieve pain. Laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers.

3. Increase personal satisfaction. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations

4. Improve your mood. Many people experience depression, sometimes due to chronic illness. Laughter can help lessen your depression and anxiety and may make you feel happier.

There you have it! The history and benefits of jokes!

If you're looking for new material or just to brush up on some old ones, check out a couple of these joke books.

Crazy Kids' Jokes

Naughty Adult Joke Book #1-10

What is your sense of humor "type"?

Corny, witty, dry?

I'm definitely a corny joke type. Although I can handle a good "adult" joke at appropriate times.

What is your favorite joke?

Be sure to comment and share with us. 

Have a Happy International Joke Day! Make someone laugh!

I will leave you with this one.

"What do you call a three-humped camel?"

Pregnant

Not the best, I know. Send me a better one!

National Waffle Iron Day!

 National Waffle Iron Day!

Not to be confused with National Waffle Day, which is August 24th

I want to start off by saying, this post subject is one that I really got into researching. I'm a geek for useless(and not-so) facts!

I love discovering history. 

Who was the first to...

How was X started.

Where was the first X

I have so many questions!

I found the history of the waffle iron quite fascinating.

Culinary historians believe what is now called waffles and the iron to make them can be dated back to ancient Greece

Chefs roasted flat cakes called obelios between metal plates attached to long wooden handles over a fire and they weren't as sweet as a modern waffle.

Around the 14th century, wafer irons were flat, sometimes circular, and usually made to imprint elaborate patterns, including coat of arms, landscapes, and religious symbols.

Over time, these wafers became thicker and were more of the modern waffle. Early waffle irons were hot, heavy, and dangerous.

Many people suffered serious burns due to lifting and trying to turn the hot irons.

In 1869, Cornelius Swarthout patented a new and improved stove-top waffle iron!

His invention looked nothing like modern electric models. Fashioned to sit on wood or gas stoves, the cast-iron plates were joined by a hinge that swiveled in a cast-iron collar.

Quote from his patent "

The nature of my invention consists in providing a handle, connected with and forming part of a waffle-iron, by means of which the same may be readily turned over without danger of slipping and without the possibility of burning the hand. It also consists in providing a device, by means of which the upper covering portion of a waffle-iron may be raised, so as to expose the interior, for filling, or for removing the waffle when done without danger of the cover slipping back, and without burning the hand."

The next big upgrade was in 1911 when General Electric developed a prototype of the first electric waffle iron. They didn't start production until 1918.

From then on, waffle irons have been upgraded and improved.

We've come a long way with the waffles.

In doing the research, I found a ton of antique waffle irons on both Ebay and Amazon.

I have to say, this little one is my favorite. Modern technology with a retro charm.

Dash No-Drip Waffle Maker 

or even this one

Double Hearts Waffle Maker

I hope you've had as much fun as I have learning all about the history of the waffle iron.

How do you like your waffles?

1. Traditional, butter, syrup and/or powdered sugar

2. Freshened up with fruit and whipped topping

3. Trendy with the chicken and waffles crowd

National Onion Rings Day!

 It's National Onion Rings Day Y'all!

(I promise, not all the National Day posts will be about food. I hope!)

I gotta be honest with you all. Up until about seven or so years ago, I would've been all... "Uh, ew! Onion rings?!"

I have no idea why. It just wasn't my thing. I'd always choose fries. I mean seriously, who wouldn't if given the choice? ("Would you like french fries or onion rings?")

Fries, definitely, fries!

Right?

Okay, so now I may choose onion rings, but I'm still pretty picky about them.

It has to be the right texture, size, and flavor.

It's either a yes or a big Nope for me. I definitely prefer an actual onion ring versus the minced onion.

There are a few local places that can really persuade me with their recipes.

Jolly's is a local root beer drive-in joint that has some pretty good, golden crispy, just salty enough onion rings. 5/5 for them!

Mad Mike's burgers is another local place that has some pretty good ones. I'd have to go 4/5 for them. Only because they are one of those that have jumped on the "onion rings go on a burger" wagon, and I'm just not feeling that.

Red Robin is my big chain choice for onion rings.

I'm going to have to call out Sonic and Burger King as my No-Go onion rings.

I don't know if it's the whole pre-made, packaged bit or what, but I just can't do them.

Sorry, not sorry.

I've also found a wonderful, keto-friendly recipe for Air Fryer Onion Rings!

London has some great recipes. Make sure to check her page out.

If you don't own an air fryer yet, go grab this one!

Seriously, this is amazing. Easy to use, easy to clean, and it is a 6 in 1!

You can use it as an air fryer, broiler, roaster, dehydrator, baking, and also reheating foods.

Start out using it to celebrate National Onion Ring Day. Tomorrow, try something new!

Let me know how it goes! I'd love to hear feedback and share pics!

Do you have a favorite dipping sauce? I'm pretty basic with Ketchup. What should I try?

National Fudge Day!

 It's National Fudge Day!

I know I missed a few days last week, but I'm trying to focus posts on either things I know about or things I'm interested in learning about. Or, just something that looks fun!

I do know about fudge!

I think of fudge as something nostalgic. It reminds me of Mamaw's kitchen, being at fairs or flea markets, going on vacation, and watching the confectioners churn chocolate those huge brass vats!

Fun Facts(Wiki):

Fudge originated here in the United States in the late 19th century.

Its popularity was partly due to the decreasing costs of refined white sugar, and partly because it was easily made at home without any special equipment.

 Mackinac Island Fudge, located on Mackinac Island, Michigan was the first candy shop established!

Founder, Rome Murdick was also the first to use a marble slab to make the fudge. This not only gave the fudge a unique flavor but also let customers watch it being made!

I think one of the things that attract people to fudge is its diversity.

You can start with any base(chocolate, peanut butter, or vanilla) and add in just about anything to jazz it up. Try adding crushed cookies, fruits, nuts, coconut, marshmallows, baking chips, candies, even liqueurs, and anything else that sounds yummy in a piece of fudge!

I went over and grabbed a couple recipes for you to check out.

For those that want quick and easy.

Easy 2 Ingredient Fudge!

For the more adventurous.

41 Delicious Fudge Recipes

If you're like me and love fudge but have no desire to actually make it...

Go here! 

Great selection of fudge! Yummm!

Make sure to comment and let me know how you are celebrating National Fudge Day!