Don’t be so blase. It may not sound like anything special, unless it’s your birthday or anniversary. But there’s really a good bit to celebrate today, if you open yourself up to the possibilities. For example, today is:

National Mushroom Day.

After the recent rains associated with Hurricane Helene, our yard blossomed with what looked like hundreds (actually, more like dozens) of big, white, probably toxic toadstools. But I really don’t think that’s what the creator of this “holiday” had in mind. And I will leave the mushroom-picking to the experts, while I just enjoy eating them. Sauteed, with onions. Yum.

International Day of Rural Women.

I think this includes me. Although I am, by nature and by history, a city girl, I have now lived out in the country with family for the past four years. (We’re actually in a lovely neighborhood, but surrounded by nothing but country.) It’s beautiful, it’s peaceful . . . and it’s boring. At least, it is to me, because I am not an outdoor enthusiast, which is a gross understatement. Did I mention, I’m a city girl? So I’ll leave this day to the women who really do love rural living. More power to them.

National Grouch Day.

Definitely my day. Enough said.

White Cane Safety Day.

For all of the maladies that have come along with the years, I am blessed to have retained my eyesight. Which means I can watch out for those who don’t, and avoid bumping into them . . . which I assume is the purpose of this day. Or maybe it’s intended to teach newly unsighted people how to use their canes without tripping on them. Either way, I wish them the best. And again, I count my blessings.

Global Handwashing Day.

I thought this was kind of standard procedure for everyone with access to water. Didn’t your mother teach you to wash your hands after . . . well, after everything? “You’ve been playing outside; wash your hands.” “You touched the dog; wash your hands.” “You went to the bathroom; really scrub those hands — twice.” “You read a book; wash your hands.” “You breathed; wash your hands.”

Or maybe you didn’t have a Jewish mother.

*. *. *

Well, that’s a wrap for today. Off to visit a new friend in the neighborhood now. International Day of Rural Women is looking up.

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
10/15/24