Celebrate Every Day

Transcript for June 24th

Welcome to June 24th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate French classics with a twist.  More after the break from Anna Devere.

Anna: If making a meal “en papillote” sounds too daunting consider that parchment paper is like the hot pocket of culinary techniques.  Doesn’t sound that hard now does it?

Marlo: You said “hot pocket.”

Anna:  That’s because this French cooking method involves wrapping your ingredients: fish, chicken or meat along with vegetables and seasonings inside of parchment paper and sealing them up with a twist in a little tent for easy clean up and unsurpassed flavor and tenderness.  Everything just steams up perfectly inside.

Marlo: Does it cook hot pockets?

Anna: Not unless you like them steamed.

Marlo: You seem a little steamed right now.

Anna: On National Parchment Day mix up your dinner routine with a centuries old technique that’s convenient and delicious! (Don’t say it…)

You might be familiar with the pecan-filled candy that is fudgelike and sugary and associated with the South.   But this is only one type of praline.  It is believed that the original confection began in 17th Century France where nuts such as almonds were covered in caramelized sugar.  The Belgians added chocolate which is what they do best, and no one is complaining that a Beligian praliné refers to a smooth, soft centered, nutty morsel of goodness.  It’s sweeter American cousin adapted to the plentitude of pecans found in New Orleans and the popular ice cream, “pralines and cream” sealed the deal as the “sweet tooth belle of the ball.”  On National Pralines Day celebrate as sweet as you please with your candy of choice.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 23rd

Welcome to June 23rd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate keeping it cool and staying in the pink.  More after the break from Marlo Anderson.

You’ve heard that your body is made up of more than 60 percent water and maintaining proper hydration is critical for your survival.  Imagine how important it is for athletes who train outside.  The special precautions they take to stay hydrated are good for anyone and include drinking water before and after a workout and supplementing with electrolytes throughout the day. No matter how active you are, experts now say that taking small sips of water more frequently is better than chugging a glass all at once.  On National Hydration Day try topping off your fluids at a slow and steady  pace and celebrate keeping your cool.

Some people have streets named after them. Some have landmarks. But not many people can say they have a color named in their honor. Madame du Pompadour, a mistress of Louis XV loved pink so much that a designer created a shade of the color called Rose Pompadour just for her. Pastel colors became very fashionable with European royalty during this time, especially her signature tone, which was used for clothing and fine china. In today’s world, we usually think of pink in women’s fashion, but over the past few years, it has become popular with men as well and if changing the name to salmon, rose or fuchsia, makes it more appealing than by all means celebrate National Pink Day by dressing up in whatever shade of pink you find most sophisticated.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 22nd

Welcome to June 22nd, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate going for gold and a flash of lightning.  More after the break from Marlo Anderson.

On National Onion Rings Day we celebrate the “brass ring of fried foods!” Ok, I suppose they are more “golden” than “brass” but most people reach for them when it comes to appetizers with global appeal. While no one is quite sure who made them first, recipes appeared as far back as 1802.  And Kirby’s Pig Stand restaurant in Oak Cliff, Texas makes a strong claim on having the original recipe beginning in 1920.  No matter where you go in the world, onion rings are the gold standard of fried snacks and some even prefer their sweet mellow flavor to plain old fries any day. On National Onion Rings Day go for the gold, that’s strong on flavor no matter how you dip it.

Not much is known about the origin of éclairs, but we do know they became famous in France around the turn of the nineteenth century when they were made for French royalty. The word éclair is French for lightning, which seems odd for an oblong pastry filled with cream and frosted with chocolate. Some believe that the dessert got its name from the way it sparkles when coated with confectioner's glaze.  And while King Louis the 18th may be rolling in his grave that his favorite dessert is now available to commoners in almost any doughnut shop, we suggest you celebrate National Chocolate Éclair Day with the decadent dessert that disappears like lightning.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 21st

Welcome to June 21st, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate capturing the moment on our own or with dear old Dad.  More after the break from Marlo Anderson.

Selfies are the convenient way to share your travels and every day triumphs; the proof that you “were there” with the world of Social Media.  Gone are the days when you just asked a passer by to take your photo. And it’s no mystery why: you can’t very well expect a stranger to work your smartphone or know how to capture your good side.  Selfie sticks and gadgets make it even easier to get professional results so you are ready for your “close up” almost anywhere you go!  On National Selfie Day celebrate the freedom to share every moment of your journey, no matter what you’re getting up to today.  

And if you happen to be hanging out with your Dad today, don’t forget to get him in on the selfie act.  There’s no time like the present to show your appreciation for the guy that taught you how to catch a fish, or pitch a tent or ride a bike. Father figures come in many forms and no matter your age, this day was made for celebrating the ones who make a difference in your life in good times and bad. Maybe you haven’t always seen eye to eye, but      there’s always an opportunity to look forward together. On Father’s Day show some love for the men in your life, in what ever love language means the most to them.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 20th

Welcome to June 20th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate Geeks “en plein aire” and chillin’ out.  More after the break from Marlo Anderson.

Today we celebrate a personal favorite of mine; National Hike With a Geek Day! Being a nature enthusiast as well as “The Guru Geek” puts me squarely on both sides of the fence.  How is it possible to be on two sides at once?  Take it from a geek, who knows his quantum physics: you can love technology and also thrive in the great outdoors.  But don’t expect all geeks to have this perspective.  It may take some extra prodding to leave the comfort of the keyboard for a mandatory walk about.  Cheetos and coke always sweeten the deal.  On National Hike With a Geek Day, celebrate fresh air with your favorite nerd even if you have to explain all the hours of increased productivity extracted from this little diversion.

If you were a kid in the 1950s, finding a nickel meant you had enough to buy an ice cream soda at the local soda fountain. This delicious drink is the giddy mixture of carbonated water, syrup, and ice cream. For the record, this isn’t the same as an Ice Cream Float, its more famous cousin, which is a combination of soda and ice cream. It’s a very fine distinction, but if you ever find yourself in a discussion about desserts, you’ll have the goods to look like an expert. Till then celebrate the taste of nostalgia on National Ice Cream Soda Day. And if someone calls it a float, stay frosty.  Being a “know it all” is a dessert best served cold.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 19th

Welcome to June 19th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate staying cool.  More after the break from Marlo Anderson.

On National Flip Flop Day there’s nothing cooler than “setting your piggies free.”  That’s right, Summertime means the freedom of footwear on those long, hot sunny days.  For the folks of Camp Sunshine in Casco, Maine summertime means celebrating a feeling of joy and a retreat from reality that is geared just for kids facing a life threatening illness.  The camp is full of supportive activities in the beautiful outdoors for kids and their families, and is provided free of charge. To help make this possible Tropical Smoothie Cafe founded National Flip Flop Day and participating stores offer free Jetty Punch Smoothies to customers wearing flip flops.  And while you’re there you can donate to the kids at Camp Sunshine. What could be cooler than bringing a ray of sunshine to someone else in need.

Speaking of cool, there’s a reason 007 drank martinis—the mere act of holding it makes you look sophisticated and cool. There are three varieties of this classic drink: the Gibson, the Dirty martini, and the Vesper. The last one is James Bond’s favorite, made with gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet, a bitter wine aperitif. According to Ian Fleming, the writer who created James Bond, the Vesper is "strong and cold and very well-made"—much like the world’s most famous spy. And also like Bond, the drink’s got an air of mystery to it: Kina Lillet, no longer exists, so mixologists have to substitute different ingredients to emulate the taste. Raise a glass to 007 on National Martini Day and enjoy one of the classiest cocktails in the world. Shaken, not stirred, of course.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 18th

Welcome to June 18th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate life’s simple pleasures.  More after the break from Anna Devere.

Today is about the ultimate in self care - “the splurge!” Splurging is that “certain something” that makes you feel spoiled in your own special way.  It might be extra whipped cream on your latte, a great bottle of wine or a gadget that would make your life easier (Marlo).  Whatever it is, give yourself permission today for that little extra treat. And if the splurge is not currently in your price range, a virtual shopping experience can be almost as satisfying.  Experts say that planning your dream vacation for example can release endorphins.  So give your imagination a workout for a whole new take on delayed gratification and on National Splurge Day celebrate the indulgences big or small that bring you a smile and that feeling of inexplicable joy.

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish... and you can expect him to disappear for the entire day." No, that’s not how the proverb goes but anyone who’s ever stood at the water’s edge, fishing rod in hand, patiently waiting for a tug at the end of your line, knows it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.  Sure, some people take fishing very seriously and won’t be content unless they reel in a record-breaking catch.  But plenty of folks are happy to be out of the house, enjoying the peace and tranquility of nature. On National Go Fishing Day grab a rod and reel and head on down to the ole’ fishing hole. Maybe you’ll catch something. Maybe not. But at the very least, you can go home and brag about the one that got away.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 17th

Welcome to June 17th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate the goods on the good stuff .  More after the break from Marlo Anderson.

Science has given us loads of cool facts on the importance of vitamins and minerals in our diet and the good news is that vegetables meet many of our daily needs.  If you live near a farmer’s market, count yourself lucky.  Peak flavor and freshness can make veggies appealing to even the pickiest eaters, so you may not have to hide the sweet potatoes in a brownie recipe. Did you ever have to do that with your kids Anna?  On National Eat Your Vegetables Day it’s ok to celebrate your love of the good stuff that’s good for you too.  No one will accuse you of being too grown up.

And now that you have finished your vegetables, it’s okay to have some dessert. And today I am thinking about apple strudel.  The German word “strudel” literally means “swirl” which makes sense if you think of its “whirlpool” shape. This flaky, fruit-filled pastry was created in 1696 and became very popular during the Habsburg Dynasty. While you may already know that apple strudel is one of Austria’s most famous dishes, it may surprise you to learn that this dessert is also the official state pastry of Texas. That’s because German settlers brought strudel to America and the thin, delicate layers of dough and sweet, tart apple filling won over a whole new generation.  On National Apple Strudel Day, celebrate the dessert that’s fit for a king. A whole empire, actually. 

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 16th

Welcome to June 16th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate the great American getaway.  More after the break from Anna Devere.

Have you ever wondered why most tourist towns offer fudge in their souvenir shops? It all began in 1888 at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY.  Young women found the recipe for fudge so intoxicating that they dodged curfew to hang out with their friends and make it.  Burning the midnight oil in their dorm rooms, these rebels had a cause and it was rule breaking!  Though no one got expelled, the recipe inspired the spirit of freedom, a spirit that made its way to the boardwalks of Mackinac, Island, Michigan.  Today, gift shops across the country sell fudge, because who doesn’t like a rich morsel of sweetness to go with that feeling of letting down your hair? On National Fudge Day take a vacation from counting calories, and savor the sweet life.  

At some point, each of us hears the call of the wild and needs to get outside into nature. Fresh air, trees, babbling brooks…the summer months offer so much beauty all around us. And camping is the perfect way to get away and unwind. Even in today’s modern world, we still find peace in getting back to our primal roots. And to top off all that relaxing time spent in the woods or sitting by a lake don’t forget the other important things like s’mores and scary stories around the campfire! So pack up the car and celebrate National Camping Month! 

Anna: And don’t forget the marshmallows.

If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.

Transcript for June 15th

Welcome to June 15th, 2020 on the National Day Calendar.  Today we celebrate the natural lift we get on either side of the camera.  More after the break from Anna Devere.

Have you ever noticed how being out in nature can automatically boost your mood?  On Nature Photography Day why not bring that feeling home with you? Most smartphones take amazing pictures, and you don’t have to be an expert like Ansel Adams to capture the moment.  Great pictures tell great stories, and this one is just for you.  Though sharing them on Social Media can inspire others to take in their own view. We could all use a break and the natural world is a ready oasis, even if your Nat Geo adventure extends only to the backyard.  On Nature Photography Day answer the call of the wild and watch your day get a little brighter. 

Marlo:  You’ve got quite the wildlife adventure in your backyard don’t you, Anna?

Anna: I suppose my desert tortoise and bengal cat seem exotic, but it’s the cheezer that’s the most photogenic.  

Marlo: What’s a cheezer?

Anna: It’s a Chihuahua Miniature Schnauzer mix.  And speaking cheese,

Have we mentioned it’s National Smile Power Day?

Marlo: I don’t think so.

Anna: I guess that’s what I miss most when we record our show from separate studios, Marlo.  Your smile always boosts the performance so even if I am dog tired it sounds like I’m energized.

Marlo:  That’s funny because I’m always trying to ignore your smile.  It makes me laugh too much.

Anna:  Hmmm, I’m not sure how to take that.

Marlo: Aww fudge!

Anna: Are you swearing at me now?

Marlo:  No I’m just saying it’s fudge day tomorrow.If you would like to Celebrate Every Day with us, be sure to follow us on Facebook and check out our website TheNationalDailyShow.com.