It is now early in the morning of April 8, 2023. It’s time for me to remind myself of my good fortune to be who I am, where I am, and to have what I’ve got. I know it gets redundant reminding myself and you to be grateful in almost every post but it’s an important part of my routine. Gratitude is the foundation of happiness. On this day we celebrate Dog Farting Awareness Day. Yes, farting dogs get their very own day. It’s also Draw a Picture of a Bird Day, International Feng Shui Awareness Day, National All is Ours Day, National empanada Day, Step into the Spotlight Day, and Zoo Lovers Day. Onto history: On this day in 217 Roman Emperor Caracalla was assassinated by his Praetorian guard. Caracalla is considered one of Rome’s cruelest Emperors. On this day in 1232 the Mongol army begins the siege of a Chinese capital (Jin) and gunpowder is used as a weapon for the first time. On this day in 1766 the first fire escape device is patented. It is a wicker basket with a pulley and chain. On this day in 1879 milk was sold in glass bottles for the 1st time. On this day in 1902 a riot occurred when socialists in Belgium held demonstrations and demand better education, living conditions, the right to strike and universal male suffrage. On this day in 1913 the 17th Amendment was ratified providing for the election of senators by popular vote. On this day in 1943 FDR, in an attempt to check inflation, froze wages and prices, prohibited workers from changing jobs and barred rate increases for common carriers and public utilities. Today’s first quotable dead person is the Englishman Malcolm McLaren who said, “There are two rules I’ve always tried to live by: turn left if you’re supposed to turn right; and go through any door you’re not supposed to enter.” Next is Pablo Picasso who said, “I do things I don’t know how to do in order to learn how to do them.” Last for today is Lorenzo de’ Medici who died on this day in 1492. He said, “Youth is sweet and well, but doth speed away! Let who will be gay, Tomorrow none can tell.” In other words, enjoy this day because it could be your last. Abide.
