Ashley and Brad Show

News; birthdays/events; do you unplug your appliances after every use?; word of the day. News; game: I should have know that yes or no?; there are definitely some jobs A.I. shouldn't do!; Uber drivers are complaining about micro trips. News; game: battle of the sexes part 1; game: battle of the sexes part 2; has your car ever been hit by an errant piece of sports equipment? News; if you or A.I. could hack a waiting list system...would you?; how many 'lazy days' do you need per year?; goodbye/fun facts....National Julienne Fries Day--invites everyone to celebrate the delightful, thinly cut potato sticks. These elegant fries, known for their extra crispiness, offer a unique texture and flavor experience. They've been around since at least 1722 in Francois Massialot's Le Cuisinier Royal et Bourgeoi for the oldest known written reference to the julienne cut although revolutionary French chef and restaurateur Georges Auguste Escoffier often gets the credit.  The julienne cut involves cutting food into long, thin strips, often resembling matchsticks. You can find julienne fries at restaurants, you can make your own, or you can buy matchstick potatoes in a can at the grocery store!

News; birthdays/events; how would you feel if airlines started charging for overhead space?; word of the day. News; these body language gestures/actions can impact your popularity; what are the Christmas trends for 2026?;  game: music that came from Germany. News; with 'tipflation' out of control....here are some people you never have to tip; everyday activities can have some really intersting medical benefits; game: mindtrap. News; pro athletes often get into sports broadcasting when their careers have run their course....but not this bball player; game: 3 word movie descriptions; goodbye/fun facts....Play in the Sand Day--head outside to play on a beach (beach volleyball, ultimate frisbee, sand sculpting), or at a park, or in the backyard to enjoy the summer sunshine, while playing in the sand. Plus it gives us a  chance to connect with the earth and unleash creativity. Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung's 1914 development of sand play therapy further underscored its therapeutic benefits. Fast forward to the 1950s, and the toy industry had begun to capitalize on the popularity of sand play. It started producing a range of toys designed specifically for this purpose. But not all parents love the idea of loose sand all over the house...so luckily today is also kinetic sand day....which is a soft, moldable sand made from natural ultra-fine sand and 2% silicone oil and unlike regular sand, this product sticks to itself, allowing users to create shapes without making a mess.

News; birthdays/events; how do you 'transistion' to your at-home self after a long day out?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; Buzzfeed list of some "non essential" essesentials you should keep in your car. News; what similiarities do you see between you and your parents?; do you remember your childhood phone number or first driver's license plate number?; would to take a helicopter to run errands? News; game: calendar trivia; if you could swap lives with anyone famous for the day...who and why?; goodbye/fun facts....National S'mores Day--gather around a campfire or firepit --this treat originated in the U.S.A., s'mores are the perfect blend of gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and crisp graham cracker. The first mention of this great American camping treat was in the 1920s in a book of recipes published by Campfire Marshmallows...at that time, the recipe was called a 'Graham Cracker Sandwich' and suggested the treat had already been made popular by the Boy and Girl Scouts. Later, in 1927, the Girl Scouts published a similar recipe in "Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts" but they called it 'some more.' Finally, in the late '30s to late '50s, various recipes gave the name as we know it today, s'mores. ​While 41% of people surveyed in a recent study enjoy s'mores most during the summer, the 20% die-hards enjoy them year-round.

News; birthdays/events; what happened to recess?; word of the day. News; what not to do if you hear a noise downstairs in the middle of the night (according to police); 14% of people who work from home...work from this unusual place;  game: Mindtrap revisited. News; have you ever been asked to produce your digital receipt when leaving a store...does it offend you?; animal fallacies...do toads really give you warts?; game: just under $1,000 pyramid. News; what would you do with an unexpected day off?; game: music jeopardy; goodbye/fun facts....Particularly Preposterous Packaging Day unpacks our collective frustration with excessive or difficult-to-open packaging...from oversized boxes for tiny items to impenetrable plastic clamshells. Amazon is the world's largest online retailer, often criticized for excessive packaging on small items. They have invested in 'Frustration-Free Packaging' initiatives to reduce waste and improve the customer experience. British cosmetics retailer, Lush,  known for its ethical sourcing and 'naked' packaging philosophy, offering many products without any packaging at all to reduce environmental impact.  TerraCycle is a private U.S. recycling company that collects and repurposes hard-to-recycle waste, including many forms of complex product packaging that traditional recycling systems cannot handle".

News; birthdays/events; would you live in a pineapple under the sea?; word of the day. News; favorite toy growing up says a lot about your adult personality; game: outburst; does combing 2 sports make them more watchable? (i.e. frisbee-golf) News; do you use your parents house as a storage facility...do your kids do the same to you?; game: music jeopardy; can you take a teenager seriously when they have adult jobs? News; do you leave music on for your dog when you leave the house? (spoiler alert: Ashley does); game: mindtrap; goodbye/fun facts....National Fresh Breath Day was started as a way to promote oral hygiene so that we are never embarrassed by how our breath smells! The day hopes to encourage more people to take their oral health seriously. We're supposed to brush our teeth at least two times a day, floss, and regularly visit the dentist. In 1780 William Adis creates the first mass produced modern toothbrush....before that ancient egyptians used twigs with leaves attached or they could chew on pulverized eggshells and bones. Today is a reminder to evaluate your oral hygiene and make any necessary adjustments.

News; birthdays/events; what's the "mini hill" you're willing to die on?; word of the day. News; game: what year was it?; when you buy tix to an event...rain or shine...and it rains, do you still go?; Only Fans isn't just what you think...it could help fund a reasearch lab. News; game: one chord songs; funny stories of the biggest lies parents told their kids; dirty jobs...could you do one? News; game: Brady Bunch trivia; "no influencer" signs are popping up in stores and restaurants around the country; goodbye/fun facts.... National Dash Cam Day highlights the vital role of in-car cameras...they help with road safety, act as objective witnesses, deter theft, and potentially save you money on insurance. Dash cams were actually introduced in 1939 when a police officer brought a hand-crank camera onboard a Victoria streetcar to capture the ride for the motion picture screen. By 1980 dashcams are financed for widespread usage in law enforcement. Today, only a small percentage of cars come with built in dash cams...but anyone can buy a dash cam system to mount and use with any car!

News; birthdays/events; our phones have DND...but how do you let someone at work know that you're in DND mode?; word of the day. News; game: what year was it?; funny 1st world problems; do you bring your own candy to the movies? what about your own crockpot? News; game: name that harmonica tune; do you notice how much more you spend on the weekends in the Summer vs any other season?; is KFC getting into the steak lane? News; game: mindtrap; 70% off all Americans travel with snacks; goodbye/fun facts....U.S. Coast Guard Birthday day commemorates the founding of this vital military branch on August 4th 1790. This day honors the brave men and women who safeguard our nation's waterways, enforce maritime law, and perform critical search and rescue missions. Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, established the Revenue Cutter Service on August 4, 1790. This service was the precursor to the modern U.S. Coast Guard. In 1915 they changed their name from the revenue cutter service to the coast guard and in 2003 The U.S. Department of Homeland Security took over jurisdiction following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. If you think it's an easy job....The qualifying criteria is so tough that 50% of applicants fail every year.

News; birthdays/events; going back to school...getting the kids ready; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; dept of transportation typos (scool crossing etc) News; Ashley TJ Maxx SFA; if you had the means...would you hire family members?; besides drinking it...things you can do with beer. News; did you know that you can send money to the government to pay off our national debt?; game: calendar trivia goodbye/fun facts....National Friendship Day celebrates the vital, loving connections we share with our platonic companions. It's a day for us to reach out, express gratitude, and strengthen the bonds that make our life richer...today you can take a friend out for coffee today or call/text a friend just to let them know how much they mean to you. Humans are the most social beings on earth: we need to relate to others--our sociological needs motivate our behavior, encouraging us to make interpersonal relationships and connect with others on a deeper level. In 1998 the United Nations named Winnie the Pooh as the world's Ambassador of Friendship. 

News; birthdays/events; would you switch your date night to a 'hookie day'?; word of the day. News; game: common knowledge; unspoken grill rules; first dating stories cringy. News; game: I should have known that yes or no?; the time you naturally wake up reveals your personality; would you hire mysterious people to come to your funeral? News; game: general trivia; what item is your household running out of?; goodbye/fun facts....World Ranger Day. Around the globe, park rangers are on the front line in the fight to protect our natural heritage. World Ranger Day offers a chance to support their vital work. It's estimated there are more than 100,000 reserves, parks and protected areas around the world. Rangers will usually work with other volunteers and staff members in order to maintain bridges, stiles, gates, and footpaths. They are also the eyes and ears of the national park authority, spending most of their time out and about. Documentary filmmaker Sean Willmore made it his mission to bring real-life stories of the plight of park rangers into the public spotlight through the lens of a camera. He spent nearly a year interviewing rangers in 23 countries, uncovering and recording inspirational stories of service and sacrifice for the documentary film, "The Thin Green Line." Park rangers serve as law enforcement officers, environmentalists, cultural historians, and sometimes all three of these roles.

News; birthdays/events; how often do you join then cancel services?; word of the day. News; freak accident story with a happy ending; chores that might not exist in the next 10+ years; game: Movies trivia. News; Items born out of necessity; do you go to theme parks if you don't have kids?; game: Schwarzenegger taglines. News; game: 80s 90s trivia; if you had to pick vanilla, chocolate, or strawberrry ice cream...which one? Edy's/Dreyer's survey; goodbye/fun facts....national chili dog day. The hot dog has come a long way since German immigrant Charles Feltman first sold 'frankfurters on milk buns' from his snack stand in 1867. In the 1870's Chili shows up in the U.S. for the first time in San Antonio, sold by a woman by the nickname of "Chili Queen".  In 1916 a former Feltman employee, Nathan Handwerker, opens his own Coney Island hot dog stand and sells hot dogs for a nickel instead of a dime. Chili dogs perfectly embody the melting pot of American cuisine, blending influences from various cultures into something uniquely American....today, on the top 5 list of hot dog condiments...chili comes in at #4.

News; birthdays/events; should teachers have to spend the first few weeks of school dealing with the 'Summer slide' or would this new option be a good idea?; word of the day. News; game: name these songs from 1986;  first class problem....what would you do?; how many people on the grounds crew does it take to handle a situation? News; game: TV catch phrases; have you ever been stuck somewhere for hours like a stuck roller coaster or elevator? a maintenance worker got trapped inside a giant sign for 4 hours!!; we talked yesterday about having a great idea but never acting on it...what about people who do something...but their idea is ridiculous!! (funny story) News; game: baseball player nicknames; would you want to live to 150?; goodbye/fun facts....national chicken wing day. Also known as buffalo wings, hot wings, or just wings, each of us eats about 290 per year. While a chicken has two wings per bird, it produces four of these tasty morsels when we split the wing into 2 pieces. Although Blue Cheese is the standard for dipping with Buffalo Wings, more people tend to prefer Ranch Dressing with their wings. It all started in 1964, bar co-owner, Teresa Belissimo, was trying to make a late night snack for her son and his friends at Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. She then put them on the bar menu the next day and the rest is history

News; birthdays/events; a fun way to get your family to eat leftovers; word of the day. News; pickle flavored everything has been the latest craze...can you guess what flavor is next?; game: Brad reads song lyrics; when is good enough..."good enough"!!! News; almost half of us say we have a great idea that can be turned into something (but most of us never do anything about it)...why?; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; is it a good idea to have var/replay/ai technology in sports? News; behavioral changes to help fight dementia; game: songs from 1986; goodbye/fun facts.... National Waterpark Day...whether you like the thrilling rides, giant wave pools, and lazy rivers there is something for everyone to enjoy. In 1923 Herbert Sellner designs a ride with water toboggans that would slide down large inclines and skim across bodies of water....but the person credited as the 'Father of the Waterpark,' George Millay (1929-2006) was an American entrepreneur who founded SeaWorld in 1964 and later opened Wet 'n Wild in Orlando, Florida, in 1977. His vision for a dedicated park solely focused on water rides revolutionized the amusement industry.  Today, there are waterparks all over the U.S....indoor parks, outdoor parks...and you can enjoy it all without dealing with hassle and expensive of a backyard pool.  

News; birthdays/events: Spiderman is real!! (at least acting like a superhero is a real thing!); word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; when someone "guarantees" a product...does that really mean anything anymore? News; lease or buy (NOT talking about cars) but lots of other products do this...good idea?; as a kid what was your favorite part of back to school....and now as a parent?; lots of extreme sports out there...why is this 'sport' now being included? and could you do it? News; what TV show puts you in a good mood? (even if you haven't seen it for a long time); game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Crème Brûlée Day. This exquisite French dessert is a custard made up of a mixture of vanilla-infused cream, egg yolks, and sugar that is crowned with a perfectly torched sugar crust...most people assume creme brulee was invented by the French...but it was around since medieval times...the French just perfected it!  In medieval times...Crema Catalana, a custard topped with caramelized sugar, is reportedly served regularly in Spain. Then by the 1400's Burnt cream dessert — branded with the official college crest on top — begins to be served at Trinity College in Cambridge, England...but the first printed version of the creme brulee appeared in a 1691 edition of a French cookbook...hence the credit to the French. It's all about the sugar crack!

News; birthdays/events; game: 10 worst songs of the 80s according to Rolling Stone magazine; word of the day. News; "couture controversy" at work...is this taking casual dress too far?; game: Mind the gap part 1; some 'curb appeal' features really irk the neighbors. News; how much post vacation prep do you do before you go on vacation?; game:Mind the gap part 2; Crayola colors have influenced some new Jones Soda flavors.  News; accidental product misuses...have you ever done this?; worst pizza toppings; goodbye/fun facts....National Day of Motoring celebrates the thrill of the open road--it encourages everyone to take their cars on a journey and explore new destinations. Most of us just use our cars to get from point A to point B without enjoying any part of the trip. Today...Plan a scenic drive, visit a national park, or simply enjoy a cruise with friends and family.  Use today as a reason to slow down, explore new roads, and rediscover the simple pleasure of being behind the wheel--- the freedom of motion. You may even find great deals and rebates on car accessories from auto retailers.

News; birthdays/events; is it ok to hold up a lunchtime drive thru line to hand out food to the people in the car?; word of the day. News; biggest box office flops; don't you love when celebrities/icons are super nice in real life? (funny story); game: outburst. News; what's the 'Batman effect'?; if you constantly got upgraded because an employee thought you were someone famous...would you say anything?; game: what disco beat is this? News; what's the last thing you misplaced...how long did you 'waste time' to look for it?;  game: name these guitar riffs; goodbye/fun facts....national lemon day. Lemons are believed to be native to South Asia, although some say they may have originated in Northeast India. Citron, which is similar to a lemon, was found in a Persian garden near Jerusalem said to be at least 2,500 years old. Today, lemons are found all over the world as part of our culinary creations and for medicinal uses. Drink a beverage with lemons, bake with lemons, and clean with lemons, too. And yellow is considered the most optimistic of all colors--it's associated with the brightness of the sun during the summer months. 

News; birthdays/events; lots of people from other countries came to the U.S. recently...here are some things Americans wish the U.S. would do like Europe; word of the day. News; game: Brad reads song lyrics; are you ever "too old" to wear certain styles?; would you rather re-live a bad year in your life and make it better or re-live the best year of your life? News; game: common knowledge questions; when you go out to dinner with a friend of the same gender do you sit across from them or next to them (at a 4 top table)?; when it comes to food that has a bunch of choices in a category (like potato chips) how do you find a favorite? News; game: word ladder; would you pay to go into a cooling booth?; goodbye/fun facts....Spoonerism Day honors the delightful linguistic quirks known as spoonerisms. These accidental transpositions of initial sounds in words, like 'flutterby' for 'butterfly,' or calling jelly beans" "belly jeans". It's celebrates on the anniversary of the birth of Rev. Dr. William Archibald Spooner. This British clergyman as well as long-standing fellow and lecturer at Oxford University was well-known, even infamous, for being absentminded and getting his tongue twisted when speaking. Spooner was no dummy, though...quite the contrary. His thinking was so quick that his mouth couldn't keep up. Long before Spooner was born, the Greeks had a term for this sort of impediment — metathesis, which refers to the act of rearranging items. So next time you mix up words and phrases...your brain is probably just working super fast!

News; birthdays/events; how long does it take you to 'recover' when your team loses?; word of the day. News; dangerous office personalities; game: music from 1978; new emojis.  News; funny story of the day; game: song lyrics read by Brad; back to school bargains. News; what your phone background says about you; game: movies trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Junk Food Day is the perfect day to treat yourself--you get to eat anything you want in any amounts that you want, too.  In the 1970s is when junk food started to get a bad name when microbiologist, Michael Jacobson, actually coined the phrase. His aim was to try and curb our appetite for high preservative, high salt, and high sugar foods, which we were eating at a worrying rate. A lot of people think Americans inveneted junk food but actually junk food has it's roots in Europe. In 1860 the first fish and chips shop opens in Oldham, England--then in 1869 Berlin-based Max Sielaff invents the first automat, which serves simple food and drinks. In 1902 Joseph Horn and Frank Hardart bring an automat and, along with it fast food, to New York City. Enjoy a cheat day today because tomorrow it's back to a healthy diet.

News; birthdays/events; deep "would you rather?" question; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; what is something that truly impresses you? News; worst candy bar list...do you agree?; would you ever have a friend call in a job on your behalf? (for a sick day or to quit for you); how to pick the best bbq for your needs...is this an item would replace if you thought it would make you eat healthier? News; license plates are given out randomly but if you got one you found offensive would you try to get another one? game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....international chess day. The origins of chess are a matter of debate. Multiple theories attribute the beginning of this game to countries like India, China, Russia, and Central Asia. A popular theory credits the Indian war game — 'chaturanga' — as the inspiration for chess. A version of chaturanga or a later variant called 'shatranj' made its way into Europe through Persia, the Byzantine Empire, and the Arabian Empire. Chess's popularity can be attributed to the fact that it was associated with wealth, knowledge, and power. By 1835, the Standardized Chess Set was created by an Englishman, Nathaniel Cook. For those who have never played (or it's been a long time!), try going out and learning how to play. Ask a friend to give lessons, or get some instructions online. There are definitely some great chess shows like Queen's Gambit and the documentary Judit Polgar called Queen of Chess.

News; birthdays/events; Brad's I play Rocky S.F.A. story; word of the day. News; how do you handle it when you show someone a pic on your phone but they start swiping through your pics?; there are people rental companies (rent a bridesmaid, rent a friend, and now rent a bbq buddy); game: Walt Disney trivia (71st anniversary of Disneyland) News; funny thoughts (from the internet); common driving superstitions (Mental Floss list); game: lead singers read their autobiographies. News; game: movie password; if staying in is almost as expensive as going out...what's your preference?; goodbye/fun facts....national peach ice cream day. The peach, this juicy fruit that grows on a medium-size tree, is native to China and was taken to the New World by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. Commercial cultivation and a favorable climate has made this fruit the second largest fruit crop produced in the United States (after apples). Like other ice cream flavors, the creation of peach ice cream also has an intriguing story behind it. It all started when Auguste Escoffier, a French chef, created a new dessert for a dinner party. The sweet dish was a fascinating ice sculpture of a swan that was resting on vanilla ice cream and was topped with peaches and sugar. If you have an ice cream maker...you can certainly make your own since peaches are in peak season until early August....or you can find peach ice cream from your favorite ice cream maker or ice cream shop.

News; birthdays/events; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; word of the day. News; what sm 'oddly satisfying' videos are you watching?; we love 'nostalgia' vacations...what are your favs?; game: password. News; do you take freebies even if you don't want/need them?; should seasonal items be kept in the back of the store?; if you could manipulate time with a smell...what would it be? News; grocery store mistakes; game: people in 3 words; goodbye/fun facts....national corn fritters day--they make great additions to Summer barbecues and backyard gatherings. The main ingredients include corn, meal, egg, milk, and butter. While they may have originated in the south, corn fritters can easily be changed up with peppers, onions, or herbs to give them regional and seasonal flair. Native Americans have been using maize, which is ground corn, as food for thousands of years – long before explorers from Europe came to the New world. In Pre-Columbian Americas, corn-based products were considered staple foods. When European settlers came to America, they started to make their own variations of cornmeal-based dishes-The corn fritter was invented in the southern US...which is known for having a lot of deep fried foods. Corn is the number one crop grown in the United States, and we produce more corn than any country in the world. If you have never tried the Indonesian version of corn fritters before, why not give this recipe a try for something different...their's is much more savory and you find lots of different recipes online.

News; birthdays/events; an interesting way to pay for expenisve dinners at a Michelin starred restaurant; word of the day. News; another installment of: "Americans think very highly of themselves"; game: name these films based on their movie score; if you go to a party/event etc and someone shows up wearing the same outfit...how do you react? News; what was the worst concert you ever attended?; game: common knowledge questions; if you see someone "scary" walking towards you...do you cross the street? News; how do you remember people's birthdays?; game: name these movies by these quotes; goodbye/fun facts....national give something away day--you've no doubt heard the sayings: It's better to give than to receive, and one man's trash is another man's treasure--today is the day to do just that. Almost all of us have perfectly good items sitting in a closet or basement might want to take this opportunity to do a bit of purging and give some of those things away. And it's a win-win: decluttering your space is a benefit to you, and the things you give away will be a benefit to someone else. More than 10% of Americans rent offsite storage and 25% of people with two-car garages don't have room to park cars inside them. We spend $1.2 trillion – in America alone annually on nonessential goods...so go through your stuff and see how much of that unused stuff you can give away.

News; birthdays/events; Jonah the dog gets his own special day; word of the day. News; game: Guitar solos; what would you like in an adult Happy Meal?; State Fair food. News; game: I should have known that; things that can 'make or break' your Summer;  have you ever ruined something that you just got? (car, computer etc) News; game: everybody knows; spiteful ways people got revenge on bad roommates; goodbye/fun facts....World Chimpanzee Day was established by the folks at the Jane Goodall Institute. Celebrated on this date because it is the anniversary of the day when Dr. Jane Goodall first stepped foot into the Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania, on July 14, 1960. The work done by Dr. Goodall provided amazing insight into the unique communities in which these intelligent creatures dwell.  In 1961, a chimpanzee named Ham became the first hominid to travel to space. His mission tested NASA's Mercury spacecraft and helped ensure human safety for future flights. Chimpanzees are extremely intelligent primates, using special gestures, facial expressions and sounds in order to communicate with each other. They are one of the few animal groups that use tools to get things done. Today all four of the subspecies of chimpanzees are on the endangered list. You can find lots of chimp documentaries to learn more.

News; birthdays/events; feel good story of the day; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; how long will you wait for your s.o. to get ready before you start getting aggravated? News; when you get a raise/promotion...how do you celebrate?; can a person be "too honest" when it comes to a job interview?; what food or drink from your childhood do you wish you could have everyday? News; finders keepers losers weepers; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national beans n franks day. This classic dish is similar to pork 'n' beans, but substitutes sliced hot dogs for the pork. Baked beans date back to the Civil War era and were among the first canned convenience foods in the United States. ​Combining hot dogs with baked beans became popular in the 20th century, offering an affordable and filling meal. Home cooks love to put their own spin on the dish...they often elevate the canned base by adding brown sugar, diced onions, mustard, barbecue sauce, and custom spices....and adding different types of hot dogs: turkey, chicken, or even veggie dogs.

News; birthdays/events; do you know what the "label of truth" means? (funny ketchup story); word of the day. News; if you're an autograph seeker, do you prefer someone signing a piece of paper or some of memorablia?; another internet dividing question: when it comes to tipping--do you tip on the original amount or the discounted amount if you're using a coupon?; game: what year was it? News; do you have season 2 fatigue?; game: songs that feature sax; apparently we have unleashed "the ranch monster" News; travel expert reveals how to get the most out of your "staycation"; game: guess these celebrities in 3 words; goodbye/fun facts....French Fries are one of many foods whose name is most misleading, as the origins of this fat fried food seem to be in Belgium. The story of their creation can be found in a family manuscript dated 1781, which reveals that potatoes were originally cut into the shape of fish and served in lieu of the fish normally caught in a series of small villages in Belgium and why they're called French is often attributed to a popular theory that troops coming over during World War I got their hands on Belgian Fries. However, there is another more popular and accepted theory to their name is that Thomas Jefferson brought the dish to the U.S.A. While serving time as an ambassador, Jefferson spent a lot of time in France and went on to serve "potatoes served in the French manner" at a White House dinner in 1802. Whether you prefer them thin, thick, curly, or crinkle-cut, this is the day to celebrate with your favorite dipping sauce.

News; birthdays/events; do you make your kids deal with the consequences--even when they're 'adults'?; word of the day. News; instead of taking pics on your next vacation, try this.; a new EV on the market...it's a blank "slate"; game: Tom Hanks trivia. News; have you felt like a movie perfectly captured your actual life? (list); did you ever see something at someone else's house that made you never want to go back?; game: Outburst. News; what does the new 'dream home' look like? (new study/list); game: name these drum intro songs;  goodbye/fun facts....National Sugar Cookie Day finds its origins in the roots of the sugar cookie, which in its turn can be traced back to the 1700s among the Nazarene's of Pennsylvania. In those days it was specifically known as the Nazareth Sugar Cookie, as it was the only recipe of its kind...Most sugar cookies are made with a mixture of sugar, vanilla, eggs, butter, flour, and either baking soda or baking powder....Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in some recipes yields a softer, denser cookie because it contains a touch of cornstarch. Chilling the dough before baking is key. It prevents spreading, ensuring sharp edges and well-defined shapes. 

News; birthdays/events; what kind of 'crawl' would you be interested in?; word of the day. News; game: Kevin Bacon movies; would you exercise for free things?; funny list: words/phrases you use when you can't remember what something is called. News; game: Song titles that follow A-B-A; should more companies have a "product graveyard"?; T and T wedding...even if you don't care...aren't you interested in the officiant? News; game: general trivia; if you woke up in your 10 year old childhood bedroom and have all the knowledge you have now...what's the first thing you'd do?; goodbye/fun facts....national cucumber salad day. This is the ultimate summer celebration dedicated to the fresh, crisp, and undeniably delicious world of cucumber salad. So grab your mandoline and prep your favorite dressing. By early July, gardens across the country are beginning to overflow with cucumbers. It's the peak of the "dog days of summer" and the last thing anyone wants to do is turn on a hot oven. Cucumbers are often dismissed as just crunchy water because they are 95% water but they contain flavonoid and tannin compounds to help block harmful free radicals. They are rich in vitamin K and silica, which help with bone health. The day honors Logan Moffitt, the viral "Cucumber King" of TikTok whose recipes sparked a global culinary craze.

News; birthdays/events; destination dupes; word of the day. News; do you eat vegetables? favorite/least favorite; game: name that movie that happened with Summer in the theme; could you handle these real life scenarious? News; internet divided...if your kids are destructive at a restaurant...should you be responsible for the damage?; game: Brad reads 70's lyrics; MLB and NFL stadiums have all kinds of new food choices each year...FIFA got in on that too? News; Europe has done well with a 4 day work week...and now they have a new workplace change...what do you think about this? game: just over $1,000 pyramid; goodbye/fun facts....National Day of Rock 'n' Roll celebrates and captures the essence and impact of the music genres. Rock 'n' roll has not only shaped musical trends but also reflected and influenced significant cultural shifts. Rock 'n' Roll began in the late 1930s from African-American music and contained combinations of jazz, rhythm and blues, gospel, and country music. By the 1940s, instruments like the saxophone and piano were added to the sound, intensifying the appeal. It wasn't until the 1950s that rock 'n' roll hit the mainstream music scene. It pushed technological boundaries in music production and performance, giving rise to iconic sounds and styles that defined generations. 2 of the industry's greatest...Gibson Established in 1902 by Orville Gibson---Gibson is renowned for its electric guitars, particularly the Les Paul and Fender--Founded in 1946 by Leo Fender--Fender is one of the world's leading guitar manufacturers. Its iconic Stratocaster among it's best known and most used guitars.

News; birthdays/events; we want businesses open 24/7...good idea?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; do you secretly love your commute? News; overlooked food that tastes great grilled; should we be hiring more grumpy and lazy workers?; have you ever had bad dreams/nightmares that seemed really real! News; joke day...Brad dad jokes; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national handroll day.

News; birthdays/events; 64% of shoppers do this...do you?; word of the day. News; game: citizenship test; what makes you proud to be an American? what song makes you feel patriotic? (Hollywood Reporter list); do you prefer actual fireworks show, drone shows, or staying at home away from the crowds? News; game: name these 'American' songs; feel good story of the day; July 4th food survey...bbq, best hot dog brands, etc. News; game: patriotic word ladder; the e-book turns 55 tomorrow!; goodbye/fun facts....national chocolate wafter day...Probably the most prominent example of chocolate wafers is the now famous Kit Kat bar, a delicious combination of chocolate and wafers that are popular in America. But those are just the wafers that are covered in chocolate. Founded in 1898, Nabisco is an American manufacturer of cookies and snacks, famous for its iconic brands. Their Famous Chocolate Wafers are a staple for many no-bake desserts, especially the classic icebox cake. Bakers also swear by chocolate wafers as an ingredient in cakes and cheesecakes, and crushed wafers add an interesting texture to pies and tarts. Another version of the chocolate wafer that we consume regularly is the chocolate waffle cone. Creameries serve ice creams in these waffle cones....which is my personal favorite so I think I'll head out to an ice cream shop today!

News; birthdays/events; we talked about cliches in movies (baguette in grocery bag, etc)...but what about TV commercials?...how many of these do you notice?; word of the day. News; game: mindtrap; phrases that annoy you (list); do you decorate your porch for July 4th? News; game: songs with "Rose" in the title; 2026 TV hall of fame shows; if you could only eat 1 fruit/1 vegetable all Summer long...what would it be? News; game: guess that tune of which Brad reads the lyrics; prevent motion sickness songs; goodbye/fun facts....Made In The USA Day spotlights American manufacturing and encourages consumers to prioritize domestically produced goods, supporting local jobs and strengthening the national economy. It also recognizes and supports the hard work, innovation, and quality that define American manufacturers. Labels on products that signify the country of origin are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). While these labels are mandatory for imported goods, only some products made in America — for example, automobiles, furs, textiles, and wool — must have the labels. But what exactly makes a product eligible for the 'Made in the USA' stamp? Well, when "all or virtually all" of the product is made in the United States, the brand can ask for a 'Made in the USA' label and the product becomes 'American-made.'

News; birthdays/events; why don't we "coupon" as much as we used to...what about digital coupons?; word of the day. News; signs that your house is a target to get robbed; how much would you pay for peace and quiet?; how long do you need to wait to discuss a show's "spoiler"? News; game: mind the gap 1; game: mind the gap 2; how likely are you to "play with fireworks"? News; game: just under $1,000 pyramid; remember Garanimals? (Ashley thinks some adults still need that) but what if A.I. could help dress you?; goodbye/fun facts....national U.S. postage stamp. Did you know that the postal service in the United States began with the delivery of stampless letters? And the recipient had to pay for it-- Luckily, not long after, new systems and inventions started to streamline the process, and it became easier and cheaper to send mail. The United States government post office first issued adhesive postage stamps of the value of five and ten cents on July 1 1847. And in 1855, the use of stamps was made mandatory. Initially, stamps would usually feature the face or bust of a former American president or another historically significant statesman. That all changed in the 1890s when the post office realized that selling stamps as collectibles could increase revenue. Founded in 1923, Mystic Stamp Company is one of America's largest stamp dealers, offering a vast inventory of U.S. and worldwide stamps, collecting supplies, and expert advice. They cater to both novice and experienced philatelists.

News; birthdays/events; throwback music is the #1 thing that triggers happy memories...what on your top 3?; word of the day. News; the movie theater business model could be gone before we know it...what do you think they should do?; game: outburst; do you make weekly meal prep calendars...are you super inspired to try new meals? News; how much work do you do "off the clock"?; game: word ladder; hidden costs of vacation. News; people are surprisingly sensitive about how tall they are...and we start shrinking well before we think we do!; game: I should have known that..yes or no?; goodbye/fun facts....World Snorkeling Day invites everyone to glide just under the surface and discover the hidden wonders below. With a mask, a breathing tube, and a pair of fins, the ocean becomes a living window where reefs, rock gardens, and waving sea grasses create a scene that feels both wild and surprisingly close. Explore a live reef stream or interactive marine tour online. Some aquariums provide excellent videos of tropical ecosystems, while marine educators often host guided "reef walks" explaining what viewers see and why it matters. Plus Watching fish, turtles, and corals frequently encourages greater care for those delicate environments, because damage becomes difficult to ignore once seen firsthand.

News; birthdays/events; do you judge people on what they eat? HALF of us do!!; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; Ashley's friend doesn't like new technology because she can't manually adjust the time. News; frugal habits that make sense at home but send the wrong message at work; Gen Z job "requirements"; things your parents warned you about that actually came true (did you think eating your veggies and saving money was a good idea as a kid?) News; even the guy who invented Chat GPT says 'beware'!; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Almond Buttercrunch Day--almond butter crunch became popular in the early 1900s when confectionaires began experimenting with different ways to make toffee. Popularity grew during WWII when families would send the treat to soldiers on the front. Made primarily from butter, the treat was affordable to make and easily transported in packages. Plus, the shelf life lasted a long time. Some people refer to butter crunch as toffee, but there are a few differences between the two. Toffee is a traditional confection made by caramelising sugar with butter, then cooling it...Buttercrunch recipes started evolving when confectioners swapped brown sugar for white granulated sugar and added nuts for extra flavour and texture. Almonds became an especially popular type of nut to use in butter crunch. 

News; birthdays/events; some products at the grocery store are a HUGE waste of money (funny list); word of the day. News; game: is Ashley as smart as a 5th grader?; do you have any secret code words/phrases that you use with your s.o.?; if you could ban anything at the beach...what would it be? News; game: 80's song lyrics; the new way to have a water balloon fights; are you a mulitple? or is it weird when you find out your friend is one? News; game: movies trivia; 3 months of Summer...what are you hoping to accomplish?; goodbye/fun facts....chocolate pudding day...the soft, spoonable, custard dessert...originally it was egg that provided the thickening agent that made a pudding into a type of custard...however, we owe the instant process of this dessert to Alfred Bird, an English chemist and food manufacturer who, in 1837, invented egg-free custard powder for his wife, who was allergic to eggs. This innovation paved the way for modern instant puddings, making creamy desserts accessible to a wider audience without the need for eggs or complex cooking. His invention revolutionized dessert preparation. By 1918 the My‑T‑Fine brand begins selling what is described as the first boxed pudding mix. Today they are available for vegans too....using alternative milks, avocado, and even peanut butter.

News; birthdays/events; when was the last time something really embarassing happened to you at work?; word of the day. News; if you found a cure for something (like hair loss or graying hair) but it's a 'stinky solution'...would you still try it?; what are your favorite smells of Summer?; game: think n sync. News; misconceptions that we have about each other (genders) what would you add to this list?; sleeping on your stomach isn't so good for you...how do you keep from rolling on your tummy...if you're sleeping?; game: songs with 'heat' or 'hot' in the title or lyrics. News; we talked the other day about going to H.S. reunions...do you know whatever happened to your H.S. crush?; game: everybody knows; goodbye/fun facts....National Strawberry Parfait Day--this elegant and delicious layered dessert is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It's a 3 layer dessert...the creamy layer: yogurt, whipped cream, custard, pudding, mascarpone, or ice cream---the strawberry layer: fresh sliced berries, macerated berries with syrupy juices, or a quick strawberry compote--and finally a crunchy layer: granola, toasted nuts, crushed cookies, ladyfingers, cake cubes, cereal, or even toasted coconut. Because they are so popular, special tall glasses were invented for serving parfaits so that they are also a visual treat. Of course you can use any berry you like...but strawberries are at the peak of their season and fresh strawberries provide about 50 calories per cup yet deliver high amounts of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and polyphenols. 

News; birthdays/events; things we did as kids that would actually be considered 'bad parenting' today; word of the day. News; game: songs with dance or dancing in the title; has anyone ever revealed your 'big news' accidentally/prematurely?; amusement park or water park for the Summer? News; what's the best customer service you've received recently?; game:battle of the sexes 1; game:battle of the sexes 2. News; do you prefer social media over actual class reunions?; best movie snacks; goodbye/fun facts....national pralines day..French sugar industrialist, Marshal du Plessis-Praslin (1598-1675), originally inspired the early pralines. At the Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte during the 17th century, du Plessis-Praslin created his first pralines, made with almonds and individually coated in caramelized sugar. The French settlers brought their recipe into Louisiana, an area of the United States where both sugar cane and pecan trees were plentiful. During the 19th century, New Orleans chefs substituted pecans for almonds, added cream to thicken the confection, and thus creating what is known throughout the Southern United States as the praline. A trip might be in order to truly appreciate the pralines American origins. Learn about the history of pralines on a walking tour in New Orleans' French Quarter, the birthplace of pralines in the United States.

News; birthdays/events; if you found out a neighbor was 'stealing your wi-fi'....what would you do? (funny story); word of the day. News; if food/beverages in the grocery store had a QR code to find out more about the product (nutritionally) would you scan it?;  game: celebrity autobiographies; do you show up as 'the most put together version of yourself' of does it depend where you're going/what you're doing? News; unrealistic 'everyday life' habits portrayed in movies; game: 3 word celebrity descriptions; do seasons make you SAD? (Seasonal Affective Disorder) News; restaurants are putting up signs that say "if you can't afford to tip then don't eat out"...agree??; game: general trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Hydration Day is all about the power of a simple drink—water. This day reminds everyone how essential hydration is, not just for comfort but for keeping the body working at its best. Without enough water, everything feels harder. Muscles tighten, headaches creep in, and focus slips away. Dehydration can also increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Even mild dehydration can leave you sluggish and out of sync. The body relies on fluids to regulate temperature, digest food, and keep joints moving smoothly. Elevate your hydration by adding lemons, strawberries, or cucumbers and let them steep in your water. This not only enhances taste but also makes drinking more enjoyable. ​and don't forget to keep your pets hydrated too!!  Fresh water every day is essential for them too!!

News; birthdays/events; TSA warning to World Cup fans...but Ashley has a suggestion; word of the day. News; there are 4 different types of introverts; game: quiz; game: feud. News; toddler had a very unusual theme for his 3rd birthday party; is there a question you are tired of being asked?; what are you doing for July 4th? News; bunk bed injuries...have you ever hurt yourself in a bunk bed?; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national eclair day...Eclairs are a particular pastry made from a dough called pate a choux that is piped it into an oblong shape using a pastry bag. Once baked, the eclair is light and crispy on the outside and hollow on the inside making it the perfect avenue for transporting creamy vanilla or chocolate creme. In some regions of the United States, Long Johns are marketed under the name eclairs. However, the two are not quite identical. Long Johns are made with donut pastry and typically filled with vanilla pudding or custard. The eclair, on the other hand, requires a little more effort and expense to make.

News; birthdays/events; how do you feel about sharing your food? kids and animals will tell/show you exactly how they feel about it!; word of the day. News; game: breakfast cereal slogan; favorite fairy tales...Shrek? Cinderella? Frozen?;  funny stories (Reddit list) of when people realized they were dating an idiot. News; game: Brad reads 80's song lyrics; if you could have one service performed at your house every day, what would you choose?; things that make us smile. News; game: sax song quiz; best mosquito repellent ideas; goodbye/fun facts....national Garfield Day. Garfield is a famous, fun-loving, fictional cat from the famous comic strip Garfield which was created by writer Jim Davies. The lazy lasagna-loving tabby cat was named after Davis' grandfather, James A. Garfield Davis. In the comic strip, a beagle named Odie makes a regular appearance as Garfield's co-character. Garfield launched on June 19, 1978. The strip chronicled the life of Garfield and it also introduced Garfield's owner, Jon Arbuckle and Jon's dog, Odie. The publication became syndicated in 2013 in roughly 2,580 newspapers and journals and holds the Guinness World Record for being the world's most widely syndicated comic strip. There have been several animated specials, a saturday morning show, and several movies!

News; birthdays/events; how well is your brain functioning? (real age test); word of the day. News; game: songs with 'hey' in the lyrics; Summer camps....revamped!!; interesting dilemma...(Ashley's friend) as humans we tend to judge others...especially when it comes to children (having them, how they are being raised etc) do you ever feel like you have to defend your choices to others (in-laws, friends, etc)? News; game: TV show catchphrases; The World Cup and how the Japanese are setting the etiquette bar high; what kind of a dad are you...in comparison to your dad (Men's Health survey/list) News; game: password; funny/odd/weird things you've memorized; goodbye/fun facts....International Picnic Day invites everyone to embrace the simple joy of al fresco dining. This global celebration encourages friends, families, and communities to gather outdoors, share delicious food, and create lasting memories. The picnic as we know it today didn't exist until after the French Revolution when royal parks opened to the public for the first time, popularizing picnics. By the early 1800's the concept of picnic spreads to Britain and the rest of the Isles, with an official Picnic Society meeting regularly near the Pantheon in London. So...pack your favorite snacks, find a scenic spot, and enjoy the fresh air....you might even make some new friends.

News; birthdays/events; do you prefer actual keys, keypads, fingerprint or iris entry?; word of the day. News; do you think animals can pick sporting event winners any better than people?; things that will die out when baby boomers are gone (Buzzfeed list); game: TV show catchphrases. News; according to this survey...this is what people forget to clean regularly (phones, TV remotes etc); have you ever considered going on game shows and entering sweepstakes as a side hustle?; game: I should have known that. News; game: 3 word celebrity descriptions; fun ways to celebrate Father's Day; goodbye/fun facts....National Mascot Day ---a vibrant tribute to the costumed characters who ignite enthusiasm at sporting events and beyond. Mascots have been around for over 130 years. The term was popularized in the 18th century when a French composer wrote the opera "La Mascotte." The work became so popular that it was translated into English as "The Mascot," meaning any animal, person, or object which brings good luck. Then on  November 11, 1882, according to a sports article in the London newspaper "The Era," a football match between Middlesbrough Association and a newly formed team named La Mascotte took place in which one player dressed up in a costume. This was most likely the first mascot in the sports world. Costumed mascots appeared in the mid-20th century, which allowed teams to choose any creature to become their ambassador. Nowadays, mascots stir up the fan base, entertain and also educate. They have filled all American landscapes. Mascots aren't just for sports...they are also commonly used to represent consumer products...like Mr. Peanut and the Enegizer Bunny. 

News; birthdays/events; have you ever had a dream/nightmare alter your life?; word of the day. News; game: TV show catchphrases; what's worth vip/premier pricing? (first class? vip parking? etc); what fun work perk do you get? News; game: what year was it?; could 'fake shopping' be the new cool thing to do?; if you found a famous person's belongings...would you keep it as a souvenir? return it? expect a reward? News; game: Movies trivia; feel good story of the day; goodbye/fun facts....international waterfalls day invites everyone to pause and marvel at these natural wonders.. Waterfalls have a way of stopping us in our tracks. From the roar of Niagara to the misty veil of Angel Falls, each cascade tells its own story. This day celebrates not just their beauty but also their role in our world. They provide fresh water, support wildlife, they draw visitors from all corners. Waterfalls connect us to nature's raw power and grace, they sustain ecosystems, and communities often rely on them for clean water and energy. And If travel isn't an option, stream waterfall videos or documentaries. Plenty of high-quality films offer stunning views and relaxing sounds.

News; birthdays/events; walk up or drive thru...what's your preference?; word of the day. News; grandma stand...Brad's pappaw would have been great at this! game: quiz; game: feud. News; if you find non venomous snakes on your property...do you just leave em alone?; items we regret throwing away; feel good story of the day. News; funny things people say to unsuspecting/gullible friends/family/co-workers; game: calendar trivia;  goodbye/fun facts....nature photography day. The natural world is full of so much gorgeous beauty and wonder, and it is important for us to embrace it as much as possible. In the 1860's American photographer Carleton E. Watkins hauls giant cameras into Yosemite Valley to make monumental "mammoth plate" views that become landmark images of wild American scenery....By 1940 Ansel Adams published a powerful black-and-white book filled with images  of Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. However, you don't have to be a professional photographer....just find something that is beautiftul to you! 

News; birthdays/events; how often do you update your devices?; word of the day. News; game: finish the name of these toys; have you seen the Japanese gorilla video? is it A.I.?!?!?; what's the last thing you accidentally broke at your house? News; game: battle of the sexes part 1; game: battle of the sexes part 2; what's your summer cocktail personality? News; have you ever gone home to use 'the facilities' because the public bathroom was so gross?; "how to" book from the 15-1800's...how did they do things?; goodbye/fun facts....national peanut butter cookie day. 3,500 years ago, indigenous peoples of the Americas, including Aztec and Inca cultures, ground roasted peanuts into a paste, creating an early forerunner to modern peanut butter used in sauces and foods. By 1916 Dr. George Washington Carver publishes the Tuskegee Institute bulletin "How to Grow the Peanut and 105 Ways of Preparing it for Human Consumption," featuring several recipes for peanut-based cookies and desserts.  Peanut butter cookies are incredibly easy to make: peanut butter, sugar, and eggs...and, yes, the fork marks on peanut butter cookies serve a critical functional purpose in addition to being decorative. Because peanut butter cookie dough is significantly denser, thicker, and higher in fat than many other cookie doughs, it does not spread naturally on its own in the oven.

News; birthdays/events; have you heard of the backwards beach trend? do you know people that do things out of order like this?; word of the day. News; senior give self care advice to the younger generations--what do you think about these suggestions?; what's your dad superpower? (funny list); game: TV show catchphrases. News; what are the most boring things you deal with every day?; The 40/70 % rule for making decisions; game: rock and roll biographies. News; baby center baby name trends 2026; game: famous moments in sports; goodbye/fun facts....national corn on the cob day. While corn on the cob day comes at the beginning of June, anyone from the corn growing belt in the US knows that the best time to get fresh corn on the cob is at the end of the summer. Some 7,000 years ago in Mexico---corn grew as a wild grass, though was eventually grown as a crop and harvested. Although the most common corn color is yellow, it can also be cultivated to be purple, green, blue-gray, red, white and even black. By the 1920's Corn on the Cob becomes a Fairground and Picnic Staple...and with the rise of automobile tourism and state and county fairs, vendors across the United States sell freshly boiled or grilled ears of sweet corn, firmly associating corn on the cob with outdoor festivals, barbecues, and Summer leisure. While it might seem rude, proper dinner etiquette for eating corn says holding the cob at each end with your fingers is appropriate. The United States is the largest single producer of corn on the planet, providing at least 40% of the world's corn harvest.

News; birthdays/events; what was the best and the worst Summer job you ever had?; word of the day. News; would you like a cash app accessory?; game: prison commissary price is right; funny habits many of us have done but probably wouldn't admit (how many on this list have you done?) News; when you were a kid, what was the best snack to find in your lunchbox?; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; best sunburn remedies. News; Father's day is coming up...do you know the backstory?; game: songs that ask questions; goodbye/fun facts....National Black Cow Day celebrates the delicious beverage also known as a Root Beer Float. That's right, the beverage made with root beer and vanilla ice cream is called a Black Cow. Frank J. Wisner from Cripple Creek, Colorado, invented the black cow. He was the owner of the Cripple Creek Cow Mountain Gold Mining Company. The story goes that one night he found himself staring out the window thinking about the line of soda waters that he was producing and as he was looking out the window, he went back to his bar and added a spoonful of vanilla ice cream to his favorite flavor of soda, Myers Avenue Red Root Beer. When he tasted it, he knew he had a hit. Wisner named the new creation Black Cow Mountain but the local children shortened the name to Black Cow. Some people even substitute vanilla ice cream with chocolate ice cream, making it a "brown cow."

News; birthdays/events; gas station food used to be joke...but now there is gourmet gas station food!; word of the day. News; game: sax and drum intro songs; do you purchase or rent digital movies? what's your dollar threshold?; should certain places (like funeral homes) have drab decor on purpose or should they be cheerfully decorated? News; game: Les Paul songs; kids in the 80's and 90's mowed lawns 4 times more than kids do today...what are some chores that you did as a kid that your kids have no clue about?; what's your guilty pleasure summer snack and/or summer driving song? News; game: songs with Summer in the title; 100 years: things that would horrify someone from 1926 living in 2026...and vice versa; goodbye/fun facts....strawberry rhubarb pie day. Rhubarb is a one of the first foods gardeners begin to harvest rhubarb in the middle of May and early June, and it finds its way into desserts and preserves. Native to China, rhubarb was originally grown and traded as a medicine....it's technically a vegetable...Originating in Europe (Germany and UK), the rhubarb pie was introduced to the United States in the late 18th century....rhubarb and strawberries make an amazing combination! While the strawberries are sweet, the rhubarb provides a deliciously sour complement that offers a balance and tasty complexity. 

News; birthdays/events; are there certain bands you want to see over and over...would you travel?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; 73 percent of Americans go back to their house for forgotten items when leaving on a road trip. News; roles that were so perfectly cast no one else could have played them; feel good story of the day; 3 words to live by...brief but great advice. News; here's an interesting way to help cope with stressful situations...would you try it?; game: calendar trivia;  goodbye/fun facts....Eat Flexitarian Day..for many people, a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle can be difficult to adopt because it's assumed that this limits many delicious foods—like beef, chicken, and bacon—and especially foods that satisfy savory cravings. Eating flexitarian is a great alternative and an opportunity for people to incorporate more plant-based foods that satisfy those cravings, with the option to enjoy meat or fish on occasion as well. It sparks curiosity by offering freedom. Studies link plant-rich eating with lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers...at the same time, eating less meat cuts greenhouse gas emissions and reduces resource use. Offering balance instead of all-or-nothing.

News; birthdays/events; most kids don't listen to their parents about saving money until they have some skin in the game....when did you get financial skin in the game?; word of the day. News; Uber list of strangest items left in Uber cars 2026 list; Summer cookout fat trap; game: drum intro songs. News; we've heard of people who live on cruise ships...but would you live in/on a floating city?; game: saxophone songs; Netflix's all time top 10 watched movies...how many of these have you seen? News; game: lead singers read their biographies; tips for keep your pets cool/safe in the heat of the summer; goodbye/fun facts....National Start Over Day is a chance to wipe the slate clean and begin again. Life throws challenges at everyone, and sometimes, the best thing to do is start fresh...whether moving on from a mistake, chasing a dream, or simply shifting focus--It's a powerful reminder no one moves through life without missteps, but dwelling on them only holds us back. This mental reset helps us to let go of old burdens and look ahead with confidence. It sparks hope, encouraging action toward something better. Failing is important because it allows you to give something another try. Trust the process of what you learn along the failure journey, change a few things, and start from scratch to make it a success. 

News; birthdays/events; right place, right time story; word of the day. News; would you let an A.I. robot clean your house?; strange Summer festival 2026; game: This is Jeopardy. News; easy bill splitting...because some restaurants won't split it for you; things you should never apologize for; game: Van Halen song intros. News; if you're not really a breakfast person but you want to lose weight would you do this?; game: General Trivia;  goodbye/fun facts....national cheese day...While there are certainly some people who do not like cheese or cannot eat it for health reasons, most other people would agree that it is one of the best ingredients for food recipes that was ever invented. There are so many different kinds and varieties of cheese available from cultures the world over. Chemical analysis of perforated pottery from 5000 BC in Kuyavia in present-day Poland shows residues of milk fats, indicating that early farmers were straining curds and making a simple cheese thousands of years before written records.  By the 8th century BCE Greek writers such as Homer and Aristotle describe sheep's and goat's milk cheeses, with the Odyssey depicting cheesemaking in caves... evidence that cheese was a staple food and trade product. So if you love cheese...try one of the more obsure/peculiar ones like: Gjetost Cheese ("yay-toast") from Norway or Drunken Goat Cheese from Spain.

News; birthdays/events; how would you feel if you had to hold hands and sing with your co-workers before meetings?; word of the day. News; game: minute mysteries; we talked about 22 minutes of wasted productivity (computer issues) yesterday...Ashley had 2+ hour tech issue yesterday; Would You Rather? during Summer. News; game: 3 word book descriptions; if you were being turned into an action figure...what 2 accessories would you have to come with?; cue the Macklemore music...thrift store shopping is back--bigtime! News; game: everybody knows; we're so used to instant text messaging...would you be willing to wait several hours or days for a text to arrive?; goodbye/fun facts....National Chicken Salad Day honors a deli favorite with deep New England roots. Chicken salad is believed to have originated in 1863, when Liam Gray of Town Meats in Wakefield, Rhode Island, combined leftover chicken with mayonnaise, tarragon, and grapes to create the now-classic dish. The recipe quickly became so popular with customers that Gray transformed his meat market into a delicatessen to keep up with growing product demand. Today, chicken salad remains a staple at family gatherings, Summer picnics, sandwich shops, and grocery deli counters across the country. Additional ingredients often include celery, onions, grapes, apples, nuts, herbs, and seasonings and because there are countless variations, it appeals to a broad range of culinary preferences and dietary needs.