Conversation 30

NATIONAL WASHINGTON DAY

On May 10th, National Washington Day recognizes The Evergreen State.

In a ten-day period, President Benjamin Harrison signed legislation growing the nation by four new states. Washington would become the fourth of those and the 42nd state on November 11, 1889. During his tenure, two more would join the union.

The state’s history is filled with battles for possession over land. Some between countries and others for between individuals. The history of San Juan Island and the battle for its possession started over the death of a pig. While still a territory, Washington came to near blows over an eager settler, a boundary, and a potato-rooting English boar. Today it is known as the Pig War of 1859.

Obscure wars aside, Washington’s northwest beauty is dominated by other more earth-shattering events and views. Volcanic mountains and rainforests fill the landscape. The Evergreen State’s views of the Pacific Ocean do not disappoint. From whale watching and city life, there is plenty to see and do in every corner of the state.

Some of the most peaceful and quiet places in the United States are found in Olympic National Park.One Square Inch of Silence helps to preserve and hopefully expand these naturally silent spaces on Earth. One location is marked by a single red stone along the Hoh River Trail.

NATIONAL MINIATURE GOLF DAY

Annually the second Saturday in May recognizes National Miniature Golf Day. This day is separate fromMiniature Golf Day, which is celebrated worldwide on September 21.

NATIONAL SHRIMP DAY

Each year on May 10th, National Shrimp Day recognizes America’s favorite seafood. Americans eat moreshrimp than any other seafood, and this is the day to celebrate this delicious seafood.

NATIONAL BABYSITTER’S DAY

National Babysitter’s Day on Saturday before Mother’s Day honors the reliable babysitters across the country. On this day, we show babysitters appreciation and special recognition for their quality child care.

NATIONAL BIRTH MOTHER’S DAY

National Birth Mother’s Day on the Saturday before Mother’s Day honors birth mothers and offers a show of support. It is a day to recognize the biological mothers of adopted children.

NATIONAL CLEAN UP YOUR ROOM DAY

Spring cleaners get their wish granted each year when National Clean Up Your Room Day arrives on May 10th. Children often dread this parent-appreciated day. Though, some years, the observance arrives with perfect timing for Mother’s Day!

NATIONAL ARCHERY DAY

National Archery Day on the second Saturday in May recognizes one of the oldest sports still in existence. Archery has been around since before 2800 BC when bows were being used for hunting and battle.

STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE DAY

The second Saturday in May is the largest one-day food drive in the nation named Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day. How is it possible? It occurs in more than 10,000 cities and towns, and the food is collected by those men and women carrying our mail across the country.

NATIONAL DOG MOM’S DAY

During the second Saturday in May, National Dog Mom’s Day sends out a chorus of yips, barks, and howls of praise for all the dog mommas!

NATIONAL WANNA HAVE A CATCH DAY

On the second Saturday in May, we celebrate National Wanna Have A Catch Day as a day dedicated to the simple yet profound act of tossing a baseball back and forth. But this day is about more than just baseball. This day is about a living, breathing metaphor for the gift of organ donation, particularly living organ donation.

NATIONAL LIPID DAY

National Lipid Day on May 10th each year brings awareness toDyslipidemia. Dyslipidemia is an abnormal amount of lipids (e.g. cholesterol and/or fat) in the blood.