Ashley and Brad Show

News; birthdays/events; besides malls--ALL big box stores should have couches/chairs...Ashley sfa; word of the day. News; what discontinued item(s) would you like to see brought back?; if you found your dream forever home at the perfect price but it was located in a city with a weird/terrible name--would you still buy it?; game: Elton John songs. News; could you work at a super serious job? (pilot story); Ashley learned something silly about post it notes; game: guess that celebrity voice. News; top 5 smells Americans will try to get rid of (list); game: drum intro songs; goodbye/fun facts....national kickball day...kickball is a popular playground sport that has been around since the early 1900's. It seems that the game was founded in 1917 by Nicholas Seuss (no relation). The game got its start in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio where Mr. Seuss, was the Supervisor of Cincinnati Parks and Playgrounds. Originally called "Kick Baseball" the game was used by physical education teachers to teach school children the basics of the game of baseball, but with less equipment and fewer opportunities for injury. Though it got its beginnings in the US, kickball has grown in popularity around the world, due to its simplicity. It is especially enjoyed in South Korea, where it is known as "foot baseball". In Canada, kickball is often referred to as "soccer baseball", which actually makes sense because it uses the rules of baseball but it is played with the feet! 

News; birthdays/events; feel good story of the day...(lost phone recovered with a surprise); word of the day. News; great fundraiser idea...what would you bid on?; game: 5 second rule; remember the live Pokemon Go game about 10 years ago? there's a new IRL video game. News; how many favors will you do for someone before they become "too needy"?; game: mindtrap; are you an emoji communicator? what about work texts? News; have you hear the 'singing sanitation worker'? have you ever worked with someone that you were surprised could really sing?; game: general trivia; goodbye/fun facts....Day of the Mushroom celebrates the wide world of edible fungi, from the teeny tiny enoki mushrooms to portobellos..whether you're a farmer, cook, food lover, or just wanting to try something new--health-wise, mushrooms bring more than flavor. They offer vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants with few calories.  They breathe oxygen and offer a solid dose of nutrients. Even though mushrooms have been around since literally the beginning of time...it took time for Americans to accept and become accustomed to mushrooms. In the cookbook "The Virginia Housewife," mushrooms are mentioned for the first time in America (1824). Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup, a classic American staple for casserole recipes, was created in the 1930s. The 2019 documentary "fantastic fungi" is an incredible time-lapse journey about the magical, mysterious and medicinal world of fungi. 

News; birthdays/events; are you one of the 33%?; word of the day. News; game: IRS quiz; what would you like to hear when you're on hold? silence? music? repeating info about the company?; did your car come with features that you don't use (or didn't even know about)? News; game: McDonald's trivia; when it comes to picking your doctor/surgeon do you care about: age, gender, beside manner/personality?; surcharge/service fees. News; game: Nile Rodgers trivia; would you rather have 1 long meeting during the workday or 3 shorter ones?; goodbye/fun facts....international microvolunteering day. Most of us don't have huge blocks of time in our lives for volunteering...but microvolunteering offers an inviting alternative--It shines a light on small, practical actions that still add up to real-world good, even when life is busy and attention spans are short. It can be done online or in person, alone or alongside others, and often without the kind of long onboarding that traditional volunteering requires. The first step is to decide which causes matter to you most: education, public health, animals, the environment, or community support just to name a few. 

News; birthdays/events; things that happy people do that unhappy people don't; word of the day. News; Ashley has a lawn mullet...she's debating if she should get a lawnmower...; do you miss paper tickets for concerts, sporting events, etc or is digital fine?; game: I should have known that. News; if you have scars do you want them removed or do you consider them battle wounds?; list of funny things we have learned from our kids/nieces/nephews when they were toddlers; game: guess that lyric/tune.  News; have you ever had to "shhh" someone...where? church, the movies,etc?; game: outburst; goodbye/fun facts....national perfume day...Perfume has been around and used by people for many years. It's not only used to create pleasant smells on the body but also used to create a distraction from unpleasant smells. The word perfume is derived from the Latin words 'per fumum,' meaning 'through the smoke.' Incense was the first form of perfume and was commonly used for religious rituals by ancient Egyptians....in the middle ages people used perfume to disguise the smell of diseases like the plague...but since the late 1800's perfume saw the rise of luxury perfume houses such as Chanel, Guerlain, and Dior. Make sure to keep your perfume away from sunlight, spray on the pulse points of your skin (but don't rub it in) or spray the air and walk thru it.

News; birthdays/events; what are items that need to be in a 'junk drawer' so it can be classified as a 'junk drawer'?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; big changes could be coming to all this streaming mess...especially when it comes to sports/NFL. News; have you ever called for a home repair that was an embarassing simple fix? (Ashley did!); do you sing in the car with other people? (even if you can't sing) do you like dive bars and greasy spoons? what's your definition of places like these? News; Brad sfa phone story; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Peach Cobbler Day--if you have fruit or berries (whether they are fresh, canned, or frozen) and some kind of dough, you have a cobbler! British settlers adapt pie-style fruit desserts to frontier conditions, --unable to make traditional suet puddings due to lack of suitable ingredients and cooking equipment, the settlers instead covered a stewed filling with a layer of uncooked plain biscuits or dumplings, fitted together. When the dish is fully cooked, the surface has the appearance of a cobbled street. Today is all about peach! In the 1950s, the Georgia Peach Council began to promote Peach Cobbler Day in April. This was part of an effort to drive canned peaches sales, as April isn't the time of year for fresh peaches...peaches are very nutritious — they are a great source of vitamins A and C. 

News; birthdays/events; Finance Buzz list of why younger workers are often getting fired; word of the day. News; gen z says (this) is no longer relevant...agree?; game: outburst; Pew research study: would you rather time travel to the past or the future (or are you good here)? News; would you order a look-a-like of yourself to impress people or to attend events you don't want to go to?; game: mind the gap part 1; game:  mind the gap part 2. News; is there a brand name item that just doesn't have a good generic subsitiute?; bugs/mosquitoes coming out for the Spring/Summer...best way to deal with bites; goodbye/fun facts....Golfer's Day celebrates not just the game of golf but also the people who play and enjoy it. A possible source of origin of the word golf can be the Dutch word 'kolf,' which is a kind of stick or club, or it can be the Scottish word 'goulf,' which means to strike or cuff. Although some people believe that the word "golf" is derived from the phrase "gentlemen only, ladies forbidden." Nevertheless, golf originated in Scotland from a game played close to the royal capital of Edinburg. The earliest form of golf used to be played by hitting a pebble over dunes around tracks. King James IV of Scotland became the world's first golfing monarch. In 1764, the first-ever 18-hole course was constructed at St Andrews, which established the standard for the game. The United States Golf Association (USGA) was established in 1894, and by 1900 more than 1,000 golf clubs were formed throughout the U.S. and today there are almost 17,000 courses in the U.S. Currently, the most expensive golf course in the United States by green fees is Shadow Creek Golf Course in North Las Vegas, Nevada, which currently charges $1,250 per round during peak season.

News; birthdays/events; how "chicken little" are you?; word of the day. News; have you ever had an "Earnie Els" moment?; least active dogs; game: classic TV dialogue. News; list: funny/weird things your parents wouldn't let you do; have you mastered your workspace?; game: famous TV catchphrases. News; a man built a submarine so he could take his pet bird into the ocean; game: songs with counting in them;  goodbye/fun facts....national unicorn day...What mythological creature has been more beloved over the centuries than the delightful unicorn? As incredible symbols of purity and enchantment, unicorns are loved by both children and adults alike and are integral parts of many fairy tales and legends. They were spotted in early Mesopotamian artwork. In Greek mythology writers strongly believed that unicorns were running wild in a faraway distant realm... Greek physician Ctesias believed he actually saw them, however many of his peers argued that he wasn't seeing a unicorn, but instead was citing the Indian Rhinoceros. The Celts, Romans, and Persians also described a white magical horse with a single horn. The creature was said to represent strength, grace, and freedom.

News; birthdays/events; how is your 'financial literacy'?; word of the day. News; is golf a "real sport"?; game: is Ashley as smart as a 5th grader?; what would you give up to be "allergy free"? News; game: just under $1,000 pyramid; Hollywood is filled with "yes men"...do you want to be cheered all the time?; what makes someone seem "low class" or "high class" to you (regardless of their actual financial standing? News; game: guess the song by the drum beat then the bass line; what's the next big event coming up for you? looking forward to it or not so much? do you only look forward to the big things?; goodbye/fun facts....National Empanada Day recognizes a delicious pastry that comes in several different forms. The name empanada comes from the Galician, Portuguese and Spanish verb em pandar, meaning to wrap or coat in bread. The pastry made its first appearance during the Moorish invasions in Medieval Iberia. In 1520, a cookbook featuring Catalan, Arabian, French, and Italian food had seafood-filled empanadas listed as one of its recipes. It is widely believed that empanadas...and pierogis and calzones are all inspired by samosas — a triangular-shaped pie popular in Arab and South Asian cultures.  They can be sweet or savory...but one thing is for sure...they are delicious!

News; birthdays/events; remember "1-2-3 magic"---there is a new parenting trick that really seems to work!; word of the day. News; what's your attention span when it comes to movies or tv shows?; game: the word "boom" in popular songs; so many of us are constantly dehydrated--have you ever tried 'stacking your water'? News; according to Askmen website...these are universally understood 'dude rules'; game: Godfather movie trivia;  Buzzfeed's list of "women code" rules. News; products that seem trendy or cute but are actually quite helpful; game: Guess the song by the lyrics; goodbye/fun facts....national coffee cake day- coffee cake brings along with it a tradition that likely dates back to the 16th or 17th century Germany. Originally, these cakes were made with coffee as an actual ingredient. Then the Danes began the culture of eating cake while taking a swipe at coffee, and as a result of this, coffee cakes evolved as one of their diverse traditional and cultural patterns. German and Dutch immigrants carried their coffee bread and streusel traditions to the United States in the 19th century. Today there are so many varieties of coffee cakes like: traditional cinammon, tart cherry, pecan custard, sweet cinnamon apple...typically they have a crumb topping or a glaze drizzle. Of course you don't have to include coffee as an ingredient because most of them don't use that anymore...but if you're making your own, culinary experts say it's worth a try!

News; birthdays/events; if you really want to get things done...don't just make a 'to do' list...do this too; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; good thing the toilet on Artemis is fixed...because the astronauts have lots of great food to choose from! (menu) News; cute things people used to believe when they were kids; have you ever wanted to try a new hobby but didn't realize how expensive it was?; Finance Buzz list of cheap vs frugal. News; funny complaints from customers on a cruise ship; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....Fresh Tomato Day. Tomatoes are grown in temperate and tropical regions of the world and are a significant source of umami flavor. Tomato plants typically grow between three and 10 feet in height, with vines and a weak sprawling stem.  Tomatoes trace back to the Aztecs and other Mesoamerican peoples.  They eventually made their way into Europe through the Spanish, and they became a very regular feature of Spanish food. Tomatoes have up to 10,000 distinct varieties...and many are now grown in greenhouses so they can be available all year long. So why are they considered a vegetable and a fruit...in 1893 In Nix v. Hedden, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that tomatoes are vegetables for tariff purposes, even though botanically they are fruits. 

News; birthdays/events; professor at Cornell Univercity has a unique way to deal with AI; word of the day. News; a journalism professor saves $3,000 a year by doing one simple thing; game: King's English TV guide; if you got 'dropped in the woods'...how many of these things would you be able to do? (list: Ashley vs Brad) News; "Easter eggs" in movies/TV shows; game: scattergories; do you think your dog actually understands specific things you say? News; have you ever called the cops on your neighbors? what would have to happen for you to call?; game: 3 word TV show descriptions; goodbye/fun facts....National Chocolate Mousse Day...The word "mousse" is French for "foam" or "froth" and it was first been created as a savory dish in France and may not have been turned into sweet desserts until many years later--with chocolate mousse being the most popular. There are many recipes for a chocolate mousse, all of them introducing different combinations of flavorings and toppings. One of the first written records of the appearance of chocolate mousse in the United States is actually from an exposition in New York City in 1892. Later on, the recipe for chocolate mousse started appearing in a "Housekeepers Column" in the 1897 edition of the Boston Globe. However, famed chef Julia Child is known as having created the perfect chocolate mousse, including unique flavors such as dark-brewed coffee, butter, bittersweet chocolate, eggs, dark rum, and vanilla extract. Yum!!!

News; birthdays/events; the average worker does these things (list) how 'averaage' are you?; word of the day. News; do you have app fatigue?; game: everybody knows; feel good story of the day. News; ways to get out of a boring converstion; game: songs with "no no no" in them; things you keep in your wallet that may lead to identity theft. News; we're spending $196 per person on Easter this year...is that number higher or lower for you?; game: mindtrap; goodbye/fun facts.... National DIY Day, celebrated annually on April 2. "Do it yourself," or D.I.Y., as it's often abbreviated, is the act of creatively handling tasks you would usually hire someone to do. These include building, decorating, fixing, and renovating. In the 6th century B.C., there was a temple-like building in Basilicata which held instructions on how to mass-produce its components, as well as how these components fit together. These ruins were discovered by Italian archeologists, and are now known as 'an ancient IKEA building'. Flash forward to the late 1900s, D.I.Y. had taken over with several television shows and channels dedicated to the act. The development of the internet also led to a breakthrough for DIY projects. So, whatever project you planned on hiring services for---take some time out to finally get the job done by yourself.

News; birthdays/events; how do you eat your Easter bunny?; word of the day. News; game: word ladder; unspoken life rules....according to the internet; most of us (96%) can't/won't listen to a voicemail...knowing this...do you still leave messages for people? News; game: songs with "fool" in the title; strangest books actually sold on Amazon; what physical attribute are you asked about way too much...is it annoying? News; game: general trivia; do you feed animals in the park...there is an elderly gentleman that feeds squirrels in the park near Ashley's house; goodbye/fun facts....national sourdough bread day.  It is believed sourdough originated in Ancient Egyptian times around 1500 BC. Making sourdough bread in a home kitchen is likely to give the home baker a fresh respect for the work that goes into running a bakery because it's not something you can just 'whip up'...It requires a starter, which is living 'wild' yeast that has been nurtured and allowed to grow for several days before it is ready to be used. San Francisco sourdough is the most famous sourdough bread made in the United States today because it has remained in continuous production since 1849, with some bakeries able to trace their starters back to California's Gold Rush period. Sourdough fermentation can break down gluten and other compounds, making the bread more digestible and potentially beneficial for those with sensitivities.

News; birthdays/events; who are your favorite cartoon/characters...has it changed much since you were a kid?; word of the day. News; we've heard of cruise ship living...but what about this new option?; game: celebrity autobiographies; can you parallel park without cameras/technology? News; Parade magazine list of rude texting habits; game: I should have known that...yes or no?; list of proverbs/aphorisms...do you agree or disagree with these? News; which celebrity were you surprised to see has ended up like a total trainwreck?; game: 80's song lyrics read by Brad; goodbye/fun facts....National Tater Day recognizes all kinds of potatoes which provide us with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Potatoes are the number one consumed vegetable in the United States--potatoes have been part of human civilization for thousands of years dating back more than 4000 years to the Incan civilizations and we have been cultivating and eating potatoes in dozens of different ways since then.  By 1955 Ray Kroc opens the first McDonald's branch in Illinois, selling the first McDonald's fries in the world. Tater tots came from the excessive leftover scraps of french fries, and in order to not waste these, tater tots were invented. Make sure to eat the skin though...it contains the majority of the fiber and potassium.

News; birthdays/events; new ways to plan your next vacation; word of the day. News; game: quiz ABA; game: feud; when you were a kid--what's something you thought would be so cool when you got to be an adult? News; do TV shows/movies portray your job or hobby completely wrong (we are not at all like anchorman!); we've heard of the Rock&Roll Hall of Fame, Baseball hall of Fame, etc...here are some you've probably never heard of; what are some of the most underrated bands? News; things you can grill that are surprisingly good; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national pencil day. With so many writing implement choices...the humble pencil often has a tendency to be overlooked. Pencils are one of the first writing tools and they are known to have originated in the 16th century when graphite was discovered in Keswick, England. Sketching in pencil is an incredibly expressive, therapeutic and fun activity. Whether you're an experienced illustrator or think you don't have a single creative bone in your body, take five minutes to have a quick doodling session and see where that imagination can take you. During its lifetime, a typical pencil can write approximately 45,000 words and draw a line up to 35 miles long.A typical pencil can be sharpened around 17 times before it is too short to be used. You can find several videos online to watch how pencils are made.

News; birthdays/events; have you ever ended up on the internet/viral post because you were in the background of someone's video/selfie?; word of the day. News; alternative ideas for Easter baskets because candy is so expensive and not super healthy; have you ever reported something "stolen" but it turns out you accidentally had it the whole time? (funny story); game: March madness trivia. News; how do you decide if your day was 'successful'?; if an 'expert' reviews something...how much weight do you put in it?; game: baseball mascot trivia. News; game: name these bands; when you have guests in town but it also spring break...do you try to avoid "touristy" things?; goodbye/fun facts....national paella day. The term "paella" derives from the Old French word "paelle", meaning pan which is how it was cooked. Considered by many to be the national dish of Spain, paella originated, as many traditional dishes do, as "peasant" food — a rice dish prepared by workers in the field over an open fire and made with rice, meat, or fish...basically whatever food was available. Many countries and regions have their own recipes and variations, it can be made using any meat or fish...however, according to gastrophiles, (aka foodies) the best paellas are made in Spain, on the beach, with fresh seafood.

News; birthdays/events; food fight!!! dress codes at restaurants...yes or no?; word of the day. News; game: Mr. Spock/Star Trek trivia (live long and prosper day); I'd rather have my wisdom teeth pulled than (fill in the blank)?; Easter Eggs...fun ideas for the adults. News; game: songs that have "oh" in the title; Ebaums list of clear signs someone isn't a good person; MLB stadium foods 2026. News; game: songs that have "oh" in the title part 2; the day of the month you were born on indicates some of your traits; goodbye/fun facts....Major League Baseball opening day-- All 30 MLB teams are in action as it celebrates Opening Day! On February 2, 1876 Club owners meet at New York's Grand Central Hotel to form the National League of Professional Base Ball Clubs, creating the structure that evolves into modern Major League Baseball. The first Major League Baseball game ever played was on April 22, 1876. In the sport's first years, teams would start their seasons on different dates but the league soon realized it was better for the marketing of the game to pick one opening day for all the teams. Today...even if you don't want to or can't attend a game in person...every game is available live on MLB.TV (local and national blackout restrictions apply). The only no-hitter in Opening Day history belongs to Bob Feller of the Cleveland Indians on April 16, 1940...is just one of many fun facts about mlb opening day".

News; birthdays/events; HR managers say this "politically incorrect" thing still happens at offices...have you ever done it?; word of the day. News; would you cut up soap and put it in your yard to repel pests?; game: what year was it?; have you (or would you) use a drone for delivery? News; are your friends your same age or do you have really young or really old friends?; game: mind the gap part 1; game: mind the gap part 2. News; do you have any of the "ugly" personality traits?; embarassing jobs...would you tell people you did something else?; goodbye/fun facts....International Waffle Day. Waffles came to Sweden near the early 1600s and quickly spread to nearby lands. They were often eaten with jams and fruits, establishing themselves as a beloved treat to be eaten at all times of the day. The day itself is the result of a mispronunciation that brought two holidays together. In Sweden, Waffle Day is known as Våffeldagen, which sounded a lot like Vårfrudagen a day that celebrated the Virgin Mary's conception. Because of this lingual connection, it became customary for Swedish families to celebrate Vårfrudagen by eating waffles on Our Lady Day--which is March 25. In 1839, the Belgian waffle was created much thicker than regular waffles and with deeper grids so they hold more butter and syrup!

News; birthdays/events; psychologists say these types of behaviors are draining; word of the day. News; cute/random/whimsical habits you have (list); game: 80's lyrics read by Brad; current list of most stolen cars. News; you've heard of film critics and food critics...would you be good at being a professional critic?..there are 3 new jobs for you!; game: songs with states in the title; have you/would you flip a coin to make a big decision? what about this old school suggestion? News; we talked about our favorite things about Spring...what's your least favorite?; game: movie password;  goodbye/fun facts....National Cocktail Day ...a way to savor a beverage at the end of a long workday or a night out with friends. Many people believe that cocktails originated in the U.S. While this is partly true, cocktails were actually inspired by British punches from the 18th century. British punches were big bowls of spirits mixed with fruit juice, spice, and other flavors. Cocktails became especially popular after alcohol was prohibited in the United States from 1920 to 1933 ironically....hence the advent of the speakeasy. You can find mixology classes too...you will learn more about how and why ingredients are combined the way they are.

News; birthdays/events; did your parents make you sit at the table for hours because you refused to eat a certain food?; word of the day. News; Ashley thought her dog pooped in her car...sfa; game: quiz; game: feud. News; Aussie slang terms; when you hear about 'tricks in the kitchen' are you tempted to try them?; IWP...injured while parenting--what's your funny story? News; have you heard of the 'stress laxative'?; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Puppy Day celebrates that most adorable of our four-footed friends, the baby canine...It doesn't matter the breed or gender, all puppies are the perfect solution to a terrible day. The day also brings awareness to the need for care of and homes for orphaned pups as well as to educate people about puppy mills across the country. Puppies are a big responsibility...so keep that in mind if you plan on getting one! There are lots of other ways that you can celebrate National Puppy Day as well. If you have your own puppy, you can try to teach it new tricks, you can take them to the park or for an extra long walk, or you can make a donation to an animal shelter...or all of the above!

News; birthdays/events; when millenials/gen z have to identify or use "old" tech; word of the day ANNIVERSARY! News; how long does it take you to get ready to go out vs getting ready for work?; game: bad dad Spring jokes; how often are "voluntold" to do things at work? News; aside from music festivals--what are some fun/unique festivals you've been to or would like to attend (beer festivals, seafood festivals, etc); game: songs with phones in them; if people give their opinions for free on Yelp etc...why would a company pay $5,000 for your opinion? News; first day of Spring...what are you looking foward to?; game: Spring word ladder; goodbye/fun facts....Won't You Be My Neighbor Day is celebrated every year on March 20. The day honors, celebrates, and appreciates the late Fred Rogers, the immensely popular host of the preschool TV series "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" which ran from 1968 to 2001. Although it has not aired for the past 21 years, many people still consider "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" as the standard by which they measure all other kids' shows. In 1984 Rogers donated his red sweater to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History....in fact, Rogers' mother knitted all the sweaters he wore for the show. 

News; birthdays/events; Buzzfeed list: popular beliefs in society that maybe we should revisit/revamp; word of the day. News; what bad table manners have you seen?; do you eat in the shower? how about video calls in the tub? (weird things we do in the bathroom); game: prison commissary price is right. News; there are a lot of issues in the world...but we need to get rid of daylight saving time and we need to bring back toys in cereal boxes!!!; is it ok to use one of your neighbors trash cans?; game: March Madness quiz. News; do you check the expiration date on items in your medicine cabinet? maybe you should!; game: general trivia; goodbye/fun facts....goodbye/fun facts....National Let's Laugh Day on March 19th reminds us to add a little humor to our day. It's never good to be serious all the time and letting the laughter bubble up from time to time is good for all of us! We have all heard the saying, "Laughter is the best medicine." This is the day to take your medicine. Studies have shown that laughter may boost your immune system, relieve tension and help you relax. There are even classes called "laughter yoga" which engage the abdominal muscles, lungs, arms, and facial muscles.  Watch videos of babies and people laughing... 

News; birthdays/events; do you consider your 'carbon footprint' when you order things online?; word of the day. News; game: NHL trivia; 1st world problems...new toilet paper trends; what elementary school kids want to be taught in school (list) News; can you pass this mobility test?; game: Mind the Gap 1; game: Mind the Gap 2. News; what's a small life hack that works for you everytime? (list); Esquire has a list of rules that every man should follow; goodbye/fun facts....National Awkward Moments Day. Awkward moments are one of the most universal human experiences-- but today we celebrate of all those times when we've said or done something that we wish we could immediately undo because it's just so embarrassing! You know those social slip-ups and cringe-worthy situations...but they usually make for great stories later. In 1872 Charles Darwin publishes "The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals," giving one of the first scientific accounts of blushing as a physical sign of social self‑consciousness.  The 1984 John Hughes film Sixteen Candles puts teen awkwardness on the big screen...and in 1999 'cringe comedy' is part of TV shows like The Office and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

News; birthdays/events; weird/funny ways your car hurt you; word of the day. News; where would you think the best coffee shops in the world are? in the 15 only 2 are in America; game: Irish bad dad jokes; do you leave your trash behind at the theater (movie or venue)? News; returning to the office...what if there were just more people there...like "window workers"?; game: can you name these songs played on the tin whistle?; our kids apparently aren't as cute as we think they are! News; according to good housekeeping professional organizers...if you're doing spring cleaning...you can throw these things out; game: Brad reads 80's lyrics; goodbye/fun facts....not only is it St. Patty/Paddy day...it's also the beginning of March Madness.....with the first four playing tonight. The NCAA basketball tournament is the result of Ohio State University coach Harold Olsen's efforts to establish a postseason national basketball competition. The tournament kicked-off in 1939, originally involving only 8 teams...today, 68 college basketball teams play against each other for the title of national champion. It wasn't until the eighties that the moniker "March Madness" began to be associated with the NCAA basketball competition, all thanks to sportscaster Brent Musberger. Over the course of three weeks, teams play against each other and must make it through the different rounds of their bracket until we get to The Final Four which will start on Saturday, April 4, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, with the national championship game on Monday, April 6. 

News; birthdays/events; 30% of us have had food stuck in our teeth and no one said anything!; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; do you have friends/family who get great discounts in their industry that they pass on to you?  News; St. Patty's Day is tomorrow...do you go out and have fun or stay home away from the chaos?; funny things kids have said to you (list); goat yoga, puppy yoga, and now this.... News; did you see the live nation employee texts/emails!?!?; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national driving instructor day...driving instructors have a very difficult job! Preparing drivers with rules of the road, sign memorization, safety issues---not to mention they are literally risking their own lives at times by giving the driver's seat over to someone who is unqualified and a complete novice. The first mandatory national driving test was introduced in 1899 in France, and around the US states were joining in on the practice of requiring licenses for drivers which eventually developed into the need for instructors to teach all of these drivers how to drive. In the US there is no single national standard for becoming a driving instructor, so qualification rules differ markedly...though many states require a high school diploma, at least two to five years of clean driving experience, a background check. Do you think you have what it takes to teach a complete stranger how to drive?

News; birthdays/events; do you panic when you see a cop car behind you even if you really haven't done anything wrong?; word of the day. News; do you have/use business cards?; game: 80s guitar licks; according to an etiquette expert in the U.K....we're eating our breakfast cereal all wrong! News; if you happen to have the same name as someone famous...should they be able to stop you from using your own name?; game: mindtrap; what would make you demand a refund on a hotel room or rental car? (USA Today list) News; if the house next door (or across the street) from your best friend was for sale...would you want to live there?; game: songs with rain or thunder; goodbye/fun facts....National Coconut Torte Day--A torte is basically a cake without flour. It is a dense, multi-layered cake made with breadcrumb or groundnut base and layered with a heavy helping of cream, jam, buttercream, ganache, or fruit. Flour-based cakes typically rely on gluten development and chemical leavening for lift and a tender crumb. Tortes often rely on whipped eggs, nut meals, or carefully handled batters for a tighter, more luxurious bite. Coconut is well-known for its nutrients, such as vitamin B6, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Indulge your sweet cravings while eating healthy.

News; birthdays/events; communal TV viewing parties...the new trend at bars; word of the day. News; game: guitar licks from the 1980's; do you really think feng shui can adjust your energy?; what snacks do you leave out for the Amazon/delivery drivers...(Ashley does...Brad does not!) News; game: everybody knows; spring break...what are you doing with the kids?; Askmen came up with a list of things they say make men "wimpy"...do you agree with this list? News; game: outburst; current 'unclaimed baggage' list items; goodbye/fun facts....National Alfred Hitchcock Day---he was a pioneering film director who brought us some of our favorite classic horror films. He developed innovative filmmaking techniques that influenced generations of future filmmakers and changed the way we view horror and mystery. He directed over 50 films in his career and became an expert at nerve-wracking suspense, twist endings, and psychologically complex characters. So why is march 12th hitchcock day since it's not his birthday or day he died... the origins of March 12 as National Alfred Hitchcock Day remain a mystery — a fitting tribute for the Master of Suspense himself. And he's actually Sir Alfred Hitchcock...He was knighted in 1979, shortly before his death in his sleep in his Los Angeles home.

News; birthdays/events; if you could get an unlimited gift card...where would it be? (restaurant, clothing store, something else?); word of the day. News; 35% of seats at most pro sports are empty on any given game, if prices were reasonable, would you go...either to learn about the sport or just to get out?; game: Brad reads 80's lyrics; gen z is really getting into 'grandma hobbies'...what are these? News; do you belong to a bunch of groups/organizations? are there some that you've been in for a long time but have "outgrown"?; game: March Madness college basketball quiz; do you own a patent on something? or know someone who does? News; celebrity name anagrams...what can you make out of your name?; game: movies trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national wash your nose day....not the outside--the inside! as in nasal flushing/irrigation. Our noses are the bedrock inlet to our eyes, ears, and lungs. This means that it's also the easiest nest location for bacteria and viruses. There are many ways to wash your nose: nasal sprays or nebulizers from doctors or neti pot. It does take some getting used to...and you have to use distilled water or boil and cool water on the stove. It helps to reduce nasal swelling, which ultimately leads to an increase in airflow and clear all that icky out and people have been doing this since 1,000 BC...

News; birthdays/events; when a project that should take 5-10 minutes takes 2 hours (Ashley story); word of the day. News; study of the biggest dating turn offs....but aren't these things turn offs to everyone?!?!; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; did you see the spring training exhibition game with the little boy who gave back the foul ball? News; game: battle of sexes part 1; game: battle of sexes part 2; do you always check your fast food order to make sure it's correct before you drive off? News; are you watching the Paralympic games?; do you have a 'go-to' party trick? something fun to bring energy to a boring party?; goodbye/fun facts....national ranch (dressing) day. The story of ranch dressing dates back several decades, to the late 1940s. In fact, the claim to the first creation of this strictly American condiment goes to a man named Steve Henson who originally thought of the concoction of buttermilk and herbs when he was working in Alaska. After moving to California and purchasing the Hidden Valley dude ranch in California, Henson started serving and selling his salad dressing commercially. Ranch style dressing was originally sold as dry packets of herbs and spices that were meant to be mixed with milk and mayonnaise (which is the best tasting). Today ranch is one of the most popular salad dressings and condiments that is sold in the United States. Americans consume over $1 billion worth of ranch annually.

News; birthdays/events; we're all extra tired because we lost an hour of sleep...but what if our work/school days started later?; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; HR managers reveal the most unusual questions people have asked in a job interview. News; when animals (birds, squirrels, cats, etc) end up in a sports event bad things can happen; do you "exaggerate" on your taxes?; it's one thing to trick your kids (sometimes) but do you think you could trick yourself to fall asleep? News; soccer has the most fans worldwide...but where does American football rank on the list...what about other sports?; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national meatball day--a tasty and versitile comfort food. Most people may associate them with Italian cuisine but early recipes for meatballs are found in ancient Chinese, Arabic and Roman texts—and every culture seems to have their own version! Beef, pork, and veal are most popular, but they can be made with chicken, fish or even vegan. Meatballs are made by taking ground or minced meat such as beef, pork or lamb, mixing it with spices, breadcrumbs, rice, eggs or other ingredients and then rolling it into a ball to be cooked. Cooking methods vary and include frying, braising or baking. You can buy them in the frozen section of the grocery store too...and did you know Swedish furniture chain IKEA's  foot court is known for their meatballs. In fact, IKEA sells a whopping billion meatballs every year

News; birthdays/events; a customer in the UK was interested in buying an antique owl at a store...only to discover it was real!! have you ever been in a store where an animal got in?; word of the day. News; Ashley got invited to go to coffee and it turned out to not be for coffee....has this ever happened to you?; game: kids singing backup on famous songs; have you ever knocked over a display at a store and made a huge mess? News; do you customize ringtones for people in your phone list (Landman-Billy Bob Thornton); game: Brad reads the lyrics to songs Ashley can't place; could you tell the difference between slight hues in colors (for things like accent pillows etc) or do you even care? News; do you sleep with door open or closed?; game: harmonica songs; goodbye/fun facts....National Middle Name Pride Day --Middle names were born as a means to commemorate older, or often, dead family members, or godparents. However, some people don't know much about their middle names. This is the perfect day to ask our parents about them. Middle names first appeared in English-speaking countries, but records indicate that the practice may have been used in higher class, wealthy families first. In fact, at the time, it was common for those of high birth status to have many names–sometimes several middle names. This is still the practice in modern royal families. Some beloved cartoon characters even have middle names: Donald Duck's middle name is Fauntleroy.

News; birthdays/events; what do you think about mandating manners? should someone put out a list of 'common sense' things?; word of the day. News; women take notice when men are....and aren't well groomed. (list of things women notice); national grammar day...mistakes people make; game: mindtrap. News; have you seen something on sites like FB marketplace or OfferUp and it sparked your interest (Ashley sfa); would you watch/particpate in the "fish doorbell"?; game:  I should have known that. News; if your name (first, middle, or last) is Lyndon you can do this for free; game: everybody knows; goodbye/fun facts....national nametag day...We live in a world of well over seven billion people, meaning we are surrounded by individuals constantly. During World War II, branches of the U.S. military began putting external name tags on uniforms so that aircrew and soldiers could be quickly identified, and by the Korean War cloth name tapes with surnames had become a standard feature of many combat uniforms. In the mid‑20th century, department stores, hotels, and restaurants began standardizing employee name badges as part of a professional uniform...and in 1959 the popular "Hello, My Name Is…" name tags are introduced by C-Line Products---just don't forget to take it off before you wash your clothes!

News; birthdays/events; game: is Ashley as smart as a 5th grader?; word of the day. News; latest survey of the lease and most fit states...(Colorado has fallen from first to fourth!); game: Brad reads the lyrics to songs Ashley can't place; Finance Buzz says there are some really risky places to give out your SS#...but what if they say you have to? News; pets have been shown to lower anxiety levels...they are on college campuses now---some employers are now allowing employees to bring their pets to work...would you bring yours if you could?;  game: cover songs on the banjo; most overrated careers. News; when you're the driver....how much do these things bother you? does it make a difference if it's family or friends in the car?; do you store these things in your garage?; goodbye/fun facts....national pound cake day..Made from the standard cake ingredients of butter, eggs, sugar, and flour, a pound cake lives up to its name as the equal ratio of all the ingredients...yes...a pound of each--so it's a bit of a heavier/richer cake...but of course, you can adjust the ingredients to make it lighter if you'd like. Nowadays baking soda or baking powder is incorporated to induce leavening during baking to make a less dense pound cake and vanilla, almond, orange, or lemon extracts can be added to change the flavor profile a bit too. Of course you can buy it premade...Sara Lee held the gold standard for decades but culinary experts rate the Costco/Kirkland version as the closest to homemade.

News; birthdays/events; an airport psa that was a 'joke' is gaining traction as a serious subject...what's your take?; word of the day. News; game: word ladder; we talked last week about if you've ever been chased by a wild animal...funny follow up; from the "life isn't fair" file...how do you feel when you work so hard for something and others just seem to have success come to them? News; game: what kind of eyes trivia song; would you go skydiving or swim with sharks?  what's the most adventurous thing you've ever done?; if these things send you into a rage...you might be more stressed out than you realize (list) News; game: general trivia; most annoying sounds at work?; goodbye/fun facts....Caregiver Appreciation Day--Caregivers show up for others in ways that can be both practical and deeply personal: managing medications, offering mobility support, coordinating appointments, cooking meals, keeping someone company, and noticing small changes that can signal a bigger health issue. Being a caregiver is often physically taxing but also emotionally taxing...so if you know a caregiver--let them know how much they are appreciated...you could get them something to pamper themselves (a massage, pedicure, etc) or a gift card to their favorite restaurant, a day off, helping them with some of the chores, or making a donation in their name to a charity they love.

News; birthdays/events; do you stop and watch/listen to street performers?; word of the day. News; feedback fatigue....it's a catch 22; what does March have in store for us? (beside the Academy Awards); would you tailor your car dashboard to something custom? (Hyundai is offering a Pokemon themed infotainment system) News; interview with life coach Sidney Avalos; game: quiz; game: feud. News; game: calendar trivia; blue eyed people have these personality traits (A&B are both blue eyed); goodbye/fun facts....national banana cream pie day...Historians have traced back the origins of pie to the Neolithic Period, around 6000 B.C. It has been discovered that during this period, ancient Egyptians made a version of pies called 'galettes,' which were rustic free-form pies, made from oats, wheat, rye, and barley. The crust was filled with honey and the galettes were then baked over hot coals. In the 1700s, American women cemented the tradition of serving pies with every meal and as more settlers moved to other parts of the continent, various kinds of regional pies were created. In the 1950s, banana cream pies became the favorite dessert of many American soldiers. The British version of this is the Banoffee pie, which is made using bananas and toffee. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, at a local bakery, or made from scratch at home, today reminds us to appreciate the simple joys in life.

News; birthdays/events; list of funny lapses in common sense...what was your most recent "I can't believe it did that" moment?; word of the day. News; game: 3 word beverage descriptions; innocent things kids in school got in trouble for;"old" technology is the new 'in' trend...Ashley LOVES this!! News; game: song lyrics read by Brad; have you ever found an ancient artifact by accident? a guy in Israel just found a sword from the crusades!!; rude behaviors...how many will you admit to on this list? News; game: classic rock songs on the banjo; did you see that sinkhole in Omaha?;  goodbye/fun facts....Strawberries have grown in the wild for thousands of years, and it was the French who first brought this delicious red berry into their gardens for cultivation in the 14th century. Not long afterward, English Archbishop Thomas Wolsey created the winning combination of strawberries and cream for Henry VIII's court that so many people still enjoy today. However, the early species of strawberries were very different from those we feast on now. It wasn't until 1712 that a French excursion to Chile resulted in the mixing of different types of strawberry plants, and the garden strawberry we know today was born. If fresh strawberries aren't at their best in your grocery store, don't forget the many accessible forms you can always get your hands on. Frozen and dried strawberries can help in a pinch too.

News; birthdays/events; mistakes while getting dressed: leaving tags on clothes, wearing them inside out, 2 different colored shoes etc; word of the day. News; a new way to tell if a public bathroom stall is available; game: Brad reads 80's song lyrics; it's adorable watching babies fall asleep when they are eating...but what about adults? funny list of where grown ups have fallen asleep. News; funny or scary: would you control something in your neighbors house if you could? (Ashley had a friend that did something similar with garage clickers); game: 5 second rule; work habits that make you UNlikable! News; best french fries in America; game: 80's/90's trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Pistachio Day celebrates this popular nut which is native to the Middle East--cultivated some 9,000. Some historians have said that the famous hanging gardens of Babylon probably contained pistachio plants. In fact, pistachios are only one of two nuts that are actually mentioned in the Old Testament. By the 1st century AD that pistachios made their way to Europe as they traveled there with the Romans then eventually to the U.S. in the 1800's. For several decades, the producers and importers used red dye to hide flaws and try to make them more appealing to american consumers. By the1980s the dye went by the wayside and now they are sold in their natural color. The largest producer of pistachio nuts today is Iran but they are also grown in other warmer areas of the world, including California and Mediterranean Europe.

News; birthdays/events; Max Greyserman made a hole in one...have you? know anyone who has?; word of the day. News; are you making a conscious choice to change the kinds of toys you're buying for your kids/grandkids? the NYC toy fair has taken note of this trend!; Buzzfeed list of "this will be funny someday" stories of things that totally ruined your day; game: 80's song lyrics read by Brad. News; Jack Hughes got 3 teeth knocked out during the gold medal hockey game (and he was wearing a mouthguard!_ have you ever gotten teeth knocked out or broken your nose playing sports?; game: mind the gap part 1; game: mind the gap part 2. News; rudest states in America; cringe-worthy names guy call ladies and names women like; goodbye/fun facts....Inconvenience Yourself Day invites people to choose a small, deliberate detours from comforts in your life to make life a little smoother for someone else. We live in a world where people are busy and more disconnected from each other --we usually operate on autopilot to do things as easier as possible on ourselves which can sometime inconvenience others...so this day shifts focus from our own lives to putting the focus on other people first. Friends, co-workers, strangers etc...Handle the tiny tasks at work nobody else wants to: refill printer paper, wash the shared coffee pot etc...it's similar but still a bit different than random acts of kindness...but all acts of kindness really do have positive ripple effects on our lives!!

News; birthdays/events; punch the baby macacque; word of the day. News; game: everybody knows; IF you get a tax refund...should you split it evenly with your spouse...and can they do anything they want with it? (funny story); first we had staycations, then sleepcations...now paincations?!?! News; game: guess that lyric; do you know your 'diy' limits?; Brad's sfa fixing story. News; game: password; will you go into someone's purse or nightstand to get something for them if they ask? many people won't!; goodbye/fun facts....national trading card day... Before the internet and even before television, one amazing way that people connected over certain topics was through trading cards. Printed on cardstock and originally tucked into gum packages or cigarette packages...in fact, in 1909 The American Tobacco Company issues its T206 baseball card series, including the scarce Honus Wagner card, which later becomes one of the most famous and valuable trading cards. In 1933 The Goudey Gum Company releases one of the first major baseball card sets...and by 1952 Topps issues its landmark 1952 baseball set with a format that strongly influences how sports trading cards are produced and collected.

News; birthdays/events; Buzzfeed list of some of the dumbest things you've heard people say; word of the day. News; game: quiz; game: feud; watching The Olympics...most of them are under 30...what did other famous people accomplish before they turned 30...how about you? News; besides a dog...have you ever been chased by a wild animal?; list of movies people think are way overrated...do you agree?; your favorite toy (from this list) reveals a lot about your personality. News; Easter is coming up in 6 weeks...Good Housekeeping list of fun/interesting way to decorate eggs; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....National Banana Bread Day celebrates a perfect pairing of fruit plus bread. In 1929...Money was so tight during the Great Depression that people refused to throw away rotten food — thus ushering in the era of overly ripe bananas in banana bread. By 1930 baking soda and baking powder made banana bread and other quick breads standard features in American cookbooks. The release of Chiquita Banana's Recipe Book in 1950 further secured the banana bread's acceptance. No matter what time of year it is, enjoying a piece of banana bread fills us with instant feelings of comfort and joy.

News; birthdays/events; have you ever damaged your car by hitting something you own?;  word of the day. News; everyday things that many people don't like to do because it scares them; game: is Ashley as smart as a 5th grader?; electrical engineers say you really should unplug these appliances when not in use. News; does your dog/cat watch TV...lots of cats are watching The Olympics especially the luge/bobsled events; game: songs about hearts; Reader's Digest list of things that annoy us...do any of these bother you? News; hot sauce is the most polarizing condiment...what are our favorites?; game: is Ashley as smart a 5th grader?; goodbye/fun facts....national muffin day. Muffins are an essential morning staple for many people. They come in a variety of flavors, they're super easy to make, and they're fun to eat. English muffins have been whipped up in kitchens as far back as a thousand years ago in Wales, and American style muffins have been around since the 18th century. Today there are lots of variations like: cruffin which are  flaky croissant-muffin hybrid, while  duffins are a dense, cake-like donut-muffin ...and of course there are the muffin tops.

News; birthdays/events; Spring is just around the corner...what are you looking forward to?; word of the day. News; weekends/days off: alarm clocks or wake up naturally?; dumbest way you injured yourself recently (funny list); game: mindtrap. News; funny dog escape/Olympics story; the amenenities of 'sleepcations'...but it'll cost you!; game: guess these TV show characters. News; how long does it take us to determine if we like things....seconds? days? months?; game: songs lyrics read by Brad; goodbye/fun facts....chocolate mint day, not only does chocolate help produce serotonin and dopamine, but the combination of that with mint also makes it an overall healthier candy. That's because mint is a powerful and aromatic herb that aids in digestion and freshens the breath. Combining mint with chocolate happened around the 19th century when chocolate alone was being manufactured as confectionary and for ice cream. In the 1940's, the creation of the York Peppermint Patty was announced, and this popular development made these two flavours combined, an absolute hit. Then in 1949 Junior Mints were introduced and...Andes Crème de Menthe Thins were introduced in 1950 by a Chicago candy maker...in 1953 Girl scouts begin selling Thin Mint cookies after their rise in popularity. So enjoy something minty today.

News; birthdays/events; what was your favorite store in the mall when you were 12?; word of the day. News; game: celebrity trivia true or false?; besides workout equipment...what household items do you rarely use? (Work and Money list); Buzzfeed list of interesting/fun products that are quite handy. News; game: think n sync; have you ever left the drive thru line? how long will you wait? (Ashley sfa); kiddies shows or movies you actually love to watch (even if the kids aren't around) News; game: heart songs; restaurant pet peeves; goodbye/fun facts....Thumb Appreciation Day is a quirky little reminder that one of the hardest-working parts of the human body is also one of the most overlooked. ...it's the genuine MVP of everyday life. It helps open jars, hold a pen steady, zip a jacket, scroll a screen, carry bags, hold cups and utensils and snap (for most people except ashley) Made up of two bones, human thumbs are often called 'opposable thumbs' because they can be stretched opposite other fingers in order to help grip things easily....According to medical practitioners, thumbs can be rebuilt from any of the patient's big toes. A&B both have what's known as Hitchhiker's thumb (distal hyperextensibility) is a harmless, usually genetic, trait where the thumb bends backward 50 to 90 degrees at the top joint.

News; birthdays/events; has your cc/debit card ever been turned down when you knew there was money in the account? it even happens to famous people; word of the day. News; Mardi Gras tossing out "new" beads; game: what are these video games by their sound?; biathalon is and odd winter Olympic sport...but they used to have some very bizzare sports that are no longer part of the games. News; game: just over $1,000 pyramid; who has been stealing students items...camera reveals the thief (funny story); American names mean other things in other languages...what do 'Ashley and Brad' mean? News; game: picture songs; best reason to start your day with breathing and stretching; goodbye/fun facts....Fat Tuesday--The last day of Carnival and the day before Ash Wednesday, Fat Tuesday is the intertwining of a period of festivals and feasts that lead to a time of fasting and reflection--this enduring celebration has many traditions and deep roots around the world. Through time and culture, the practices of Lent and Carnival, Mardi Gras, and Shrove Tuesday have varied and become incorporated into regional customs. While the French didn't originate the medieval feast, they did put their stamp on it. From parades to beignets and colorful masks, the last day of Carnival is full of elaborate costumes and lavish food sure to hold the revelers over through a long fast....so laissez les bons temps rouler--let the good times roll!!

News; birthdays/events; feel good....Snoop Dogg at The Olympics; word of the day. News; does your morning routine change seasonally or ever?; most of us don't want to pay for news...since it's almost all online now; Olympic Village has a Nutella dispensing machine!!! News; when you ask for advice--do you already know the answer or are you truly seeking answers?; game: quiz; game: feud;  News; upworthy list of ridiculous 'social norms'; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....national almond day. You can toss them in a salad, ground them into flour, use them for a healthy alternative to milk, or just munch on a few for an afternoon snack. Almonds are among the most versatile and delicious of nuts. Filled with vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber. Almonds appear in several passages of the Hebrew Bible--reflecting their early importance as a cultivated tree and symbol in the 6th century BC.  Eighty percent of the world's almonds are grown in California. If you aren't a fan of eating almonds, try celebrating almonds in their other forms--like an almond-based lotion or shampoo, or perfume. If you suffer from dry, flaky, or irritated skin, you can apply almond oil or almond lotions to hydrate your skin and give you a dose of vitamin A.

News; birthdays/events; do you poke all the chocolate in the box? (Ashley does); word of the day. News; is your car turning into a mobile storage bin? (funny list of things people keep in their car); game: what are these video games by their sounds; have you ever forgotten an important day/date? News; game: Mind the Gap 1; game: mind the gap 2; do you look like your name? News; if you had to get rid of one holiday each year what would it be?; UK supermarket introduces different baskets for single shoppers; goodbye/fun facts....National Cheddar Day--Cheddar Gorge on the edge of the village, Cheddar in Somerset, England, is home to the origin of cheddar cheese. The gorge has several caves that provide the perfect humidity and steady temperature for maturing the cheese. The popular cheese was first bought by the royal family and is said to have been brought to Britain by the Romans from the Cantal region of France. Joseph Harding, was central to the modernization and standardization of Cheddar cheese. He encouraged dairy hygiene and modern cheese-making techniques. The 'Joseph Harding method' was the first Cheddar production method based upon scientific principles. Cheddar cheese is the second most popular cheese, falling right under Mozzarella.

News; birthdays/events; which phase of your life would you like to go back to? (4 stages according to this poll); word of the day. News; what's your nervous habit...do you even realize you have one?; game: Abraham Lincoln trivia questions; we're supposed to laugh more (several studies have concluded the same thing) who makes you laugh? News; signs you're aging well (list); game: guess that celebrity voice; funny Superbowl prank...how long do you think it would take you to notice? News; boomers give genz some 'life advice'...what would you add to this list?; game: getting to know you;  goodbye/fun facts....National Plum Pudding Day--the tasty treat with an interesting history. Plum pudding is also known as figgy pudding or Christmas pudding, which is why some think this is a confusing time to celebrate this food holiday. It's also odd that plum pudding contains no plums...that's because raisins were often called "plums" in 17th century Great Britain. It's a steamed or boiled concoction and features nutmeg, raisins, nuts, apples, cinnamon, and dates. To add another layer of misunderstanding, many Americans won't find it to be what they think of as pudding either. In British tradition, the word "pudding" can describe an impressively wide range of dishes, from savory to sweet, and it often points to a method or format rather than a specific texture. So if you're interested is piqued and you've never tried plum pudding...today is your day!

News; birthdays/events; 70% of men are more appearance consious that ever!; word of the day. News; 2026 travel trends; Olympic athletes-backstories and what it took for them to get there...does that motivate you to keep going?; game: what year was it? News; when you pick a restaurant...how much does ambiance play into your decision?; did you see an artist/group that played in a bar or at a private party that is now mega-famous?;  game: songs with "hey" in the title. News; funny/petty things we silently judge others for; game: classic literature quiz; goodbye/fun facts....national make a friend day...To paraphrase Yeats: "There are no strangers in the world, just friends you have never met." We must never stop making friends. Friendships are incredibly importnat...they help us through challenging times, provide us with the comfort of a safe emotional space where we can be ourselves. Good friends are our biggest treasure. A new friendship can open you to new experiences...sign up for a class, volunteer, introduce yourself to a neighbor.

Heart Association mention/News; birthdays/events; do you have a 'lucky charm'?;  word of the day. News; game: songs from bands that have 3 word names; do you duplicate or triplicate items that stay in certain rooms? (reader glasses, gum, etc); Valentine's, galentine's, or neither? News; game: space movie trivia; weird habits of intelligent people that others don't understand (Hearty Soul list); simple things in life that everyone else seems to have done but you. News; game: Prison Commissary Price is Right; lots of athletes (and celebrities) participate in 'alternative/holistic therapies'...if they were resonably priced...would you try them or is it all placebo mumbo jumbo?; goodbye/fun facts....national flannel day..flannel- btw- is a fabric, not a pattern....it's often made in a plaid pattern so many people confuse them. It's a soft, woven thread that is "brushed" to create a soft texture, while providing additional insulation. Flannel was first created in Wales during the 17th century as a replacement for "gwlanen", which was basically plain wool. Farmers needed something that was warm but also absorb dampness of the Welsh climate. In the United States, flannel became popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially among workers in factories, railroads, and logging camps....and today it's great to have a shirt or pjs or even sheets made out of flannel...especially in the winter.

News; birthdays/events; Superbowl Monday...is it really a wasted day at work?; word of the day. News; Spotify is moving into the physical book space; game: quiz; game: feud. News; what was your favorite Superbowl commercial?; what's your "don't knock it til you try it"?; Buzzfeed list of funny 'white lies' we tell our kids. News; Valentine's Day on a budget; game: calendar trivia; goodbye/fun facts....Oatmeal Monday is a quirky tradition with practical roots in Scottish university life... they started the tradition as part of the broader culture of the ancient universities. Long before dining halls, meal plans, and late-night delivery, students were expected to fend for themselves. Oats, ground into oatmeal, were the dependable staple that could survive travel, store well in a room, and turn into a hot meal with minimal equipment. Oatmeal was also forgiving. It could stretch to feed a hungry student, and it tolerated a wide range of add-ins...Since their homes were far from campus, universities gave students a day off in what became a later tradition on the second Monday of February allowing them to return home, gather more supplies, and come back ready for more study. Whether enjoyed as a warm, comforting bowl of porridge or incorporated into other creative dishes, oatmeal remains a symbol of nourishment and simplicity. It also serves as a quiet nod to resilience.

News; birthdays/events; Feb is Heart Month-AHA 'Donate for Love'...today is wear red day; word of the day. News; game: I should have known that....yes or no?; fun/funny ideas to pick the Superbowl winner; when you go on vacation do you expect to pay for all the tourist attractions...even if they used to be free? News; game: battle of the sexes 1; game: battle of the sexes 2; have you ever broken something of value that belonged to someone else?...(did you hear/see what Travis Kelce broke?) News; novelty or healthy?...Bear Poop beer; kids get Happy Meal toys...but what about grown ups...what about this fun promotional item for adults from Taco Bell?;  goodbye/fun facts....Pay a Compliment Day--encourages people to spread positivity by giving genuine compliments. It's an incredibly simple act that can brighten someone's day and foster a sense of appreciation and kindness. It's about the power of kind words and how they can create a ripple effect of happiness. Compliments can boost self-esteem, enhance relationships, and even improve physical health. Transform your home or office with a splash of kindness. Place sticky notes with heartfelt compliments around for others to find....remember to acknowledge yourself. Give yourself credit for how far you've come.