We are now halfway through the first month of 2020. It’s January 15. Time is moving quickly. The only way to slow it down is to make each day of 2020 as special as you can. Cram good things into it. Make it into a fruit cake because we know they last forever. There’s a list of stuff for today: It’s National Bagel Day, Humanitarian Day, National Strawberry Ice Cream Day, National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day, National Hat Day and Pothole Day. Have you ever had a New York Deli bagel with lox, cream cheese, red onions and capers? If you haven’t, put it on your bucket list. Now onto the history of this date. The first footnote of interest is on this date in 1535 Henry VIII declares himself head of the Church in England. Henry who had 6 wives, had run England into the ground, had become very unpopular decided that he should become the head of the Church of England, and since he was the King, did it. Moving on: In 1782 Robert Morris, Superintendent of Finance, recommends to U.S. Congress establishment of decimal coinage and a national mint. That’s why our coins are the way they are. In 1870 the donkey first used as symbol of Democratic Party, in Harper’s Weekly. In 1943 the world’s largest office building, the Pentagon is completed to house the US military. Finally, in 1961 Berry Gordy signs The Supremes with Motown Records. Today is the birthday (1410) of Joan of Arc. In her 19 years, she became the leader of the French in their 100 year war with England. She was captured, tried and convicted by England and burned at the stake. She said, ” I am not afraid… I was born to do this.” This is also the day in 2019 that Carol Channing died at the age of 97. Here’s a quote worth thinking about: “Given the opportunity, I might change a choice I made, but you can’t regret making what you thought was the best decision at the time.” Carol was able to let go of the past and move on. Maybe that’s one of the reasons she lived so long? Now, I’m off to start living this day. Abide
