Facts about Elephants

Elephant Facts 

We are on letter Ee of the Gratitude Alphabet! E is for Elephant! What are you thankful for that begins with the letter Ee?

Joey and his little sister Jinger are fascinated by elephants! The elephants are the first creatures they rush to see when they visit the zoo. Did you know an elephant's trunk can weigh up to 400 pounds? It's a remarkable tool they can use to pick up things as tiny as a grain of rice! Isn't that fascinating?

Here is a list of facts about Elephants:

1. Elephants can't jump.

2. Elephants travel in herds.

3. Elephants are the largest land animals.

4. An elephant's baby is called a calf.

5. Elephants have the largest brains of all land mammals.

6. Elephants can eat for up to 18 hours a day.

7. Elephants can smell water up to 12 miles away!

8. Elephants are afraid of bees.

Facts about Dandelions

Dandelion Facts 

If you had one wish, what would you wish for?

A wish is a desire for something that may or may not come true, but we can wish for it anyway!! Who knows, it might be your wish that makes it come true!! So keep making those wishes! Wish upon a star!! Wish upon a dandelion!! Wish upon a birthday candle. Always have a wishful heart!! 

I remember when I was a child, I made wishes on dandelions. Have you ever done that? I used to think the more significant the dandelion was, the faster the wish would come true. 

I would like to share some facts about dandelions with you.

Facts about Dandelions:

1. Dandelions are considered an ornamental weed. Their golden yellow blooms quickly become fluffy seedheads that disperse in the wind.

2. Pharmacists in 19th-century England made tea from roasted dandelion roots, which is still trendy today due to its coffee-like taste and color without caffeine.

3. A cup of chopped raw dandelion greens provides 112% of the daily requirement for vitamin A. From blossom to root, 100% of this weed (also an herb) is edible for most people.

4. Dandelions are part of the daisy family.

5. Dandelions represent three different celestial bodies at three distinct phases of their life:

The yellow flower represents the sun.

The dispersed seeds look like the stars.

The puffy dandelion ball has a similar appearance to the moon.

6. The seeds (the parts of the plant that fly away) can travel for up to 5 miles after being dispersed in the wind!

7. Not all people think dandelions are a weed.

Now that you’re equipped with fascinating dandelion facts, go share the knowledge with your family and friends!

Facts about Dinosaurs

Dinosaur Facts 

Facts about Dinosaurs:

1. Dinosaurs, the magnificent creatures of the past, were a diverse group of reptiles that roamed the Earth millions of years ago.

2. The term "dinosaur" was coined by English naturalist Sir Richard Owen in 1842. It is derived from the Greek words "deinos," which means fearfully great, and "sauros," which means lizard.

3. Dinosaur fossils, evidence of the ancient and colossal creatures that once roamed the Earth, have been unearthed on every continent. There are seven continents.

4. Approximately 66 million years ago, all non-avian dinosaurs, unrelated to birds, became extinct.

5. Scientists have identified an estimated 700 different species of extinct dinosaurs.

6. Modern birds are classified as dinosaurs because they have a common ancestor with non-avian dinosaurs.

7. Paleontologists study dinosaur fossils, which include bones, teeth, footprints, tracks, eggs, and skin impressions. Modern paleontologists use advanced imaging technology, such as CT scans and biomechanics, to understand dinosaur movement.

8. Early discoveries inspired legends and fairy tales, as people imagined these bones belonged to giants or monsters.

9. Dinosaurs appeared approximately 250 to 200 million years ago during the Triassic Period. Not all dinosaurs lived during the same geological period; some lived during the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods.

List of movies for dinosaur enthusiasts:

1. The Good Dinosaur

2. Dinosaur Train: Dinosaur Big City

3. The Land Before Time

4. Barney's Great Adventure: The Movie

5. Bob The Builder: Big Dino Dig

6. Dinosaur

7. The Flintstones

8. Toy Story

Please ensure these movies are child-friendly/age-appropriate before letting your children watch them.

List of books for the dinosaur book reader:

1. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? by Jane Yolen

2. Oh Say Can You Say Di-no-saur? by Bonnie Worth

3. Danny and the Dinosaur by Syd Hoff

4. Tea Rex by Molly Idle

5. How to Catch a Dinosaur by Adam Wallace

6. Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug by Jonathan Stutzman

Please be sure that these books are age-appropriate for your children.

Playing in mud

So Much Fun!!

Who said playing in the mud isn’t fun? My grandson Joey is a living testament to the joy it brings! His laughter and excitement are infectious. I had a heartwarming chat with him yesterday, and his happiness is a constant source of joy for me.

When was the last time you played in the mud?

Why playing in the mud is good for you:

1. It is an excellent way for kids to interact with nature!

2. It can boost kids' creativity and imagination!

3. It can protect you from stress!

4. It can help reduce anxiety and calm you!

5. Playing in the mud may help boost your immune system!

6. It is suitable for your skin!

Playing in the mud is good for you, but never eat the mud!!! Never play in mud when you have a sore or cut on you; it can lead to an infection in your wound. 

D is for Doughnuts

Happy Thankful Thursday!!! 

We are on letter Dd of the Gratitude Alphabet! D is for doughnuts!

Joey loves to eat Doughnuts!! What are you thankful for that begins with the letter Dd?

Joey loves to be kind to others, and he is very thankful for all of you! Joey said that someone once said, "The magic words are please and thank you." Always say please if you'd like something and thank you when you receive it. Those two words can mean a lot.  

Have a great day!! Remember to always be thankful and kind.

I have made a variety of printables for you. Check them out, they are free:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/printables.html

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Facts about Blue Whales

Blue Whale Facts 

  

Did you know that a baby Blue Whale holds the impressive title of the largest newborn on the planet? At birth, these remarkable calves can measure up to 23 feet in length and weigh as much as a small car, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring growth that follows. As they grow into majestic adults, their tongues can weigh nearly as much as a small elephant, underscoring the remarkable size and power of these magnificent creatures. 

Their hearts, colossal in size, are comparable to those of a compact car and can weigh an astonishing 1,300 pounds, pumping life through their massive bodies with immense power. 

Blue Whales are not just giants of the ocean in size; they are also the loudest animals on Earth. Their magnificent calls can reach an ear-splitting volume of 180 decibels or more, echoing through the depths of the ocean and traveling for hundreds of miles underwater. This extraordinary ability allows them to communicate across vast distances, emphasizing their dominance in the marine world.

Facts about Blue Whales:

1. Blue whales are the largest animals to exist on Earth. They can reach lengths of up to 100 feet and weigh over 200 tons. A blue whale’s heart alone is as large as a Volkswagen Beetle.

2. Blue whales feed primarily on tiny shrimp-like creatures called krill. During certain times of the year, a single adult blue whale can consume about 4 tons of krill daily.

3. Blue whales appear true blue underwater, but their coloring is more mottled blue-gray when they are at the surface of the water.

4. Their underbellies take on a yellowish hue due to millions of microorganisms living on their skin.

5. They have a broad flat head and a long tapered body ending in wide triangular flukes.

6. Blue whales are among the loudest animals on the planet. They emit pulses, groans, and moans and can hear each other up to 1,000 miles away. That is loud!

7. These graceful swimmers often travel alone or in pairs, occasionally swimming in small groups.

8. A baby blue whale emerges from its mother, weighing up to 3 tons and stretching to 25 feet.

Keep in mind that these incredible marine mammals not only captivate us with their immense size but also with their intriguing and complex behaviors that reveal their intelligence. From the majestic beauty of whales gliding through the ocean depths to the playful antics of dolphins interacting with humans and one another, these creatures continue to inspire wonder and admiration. Their social structures, communication methods, and unique adaptations to life in the sea make them endlessly fascinating to study and observe.

Books about Blue Whales:

1. The Blue Whale by Jenni Desmond 

2. If I Were a Whale by Shelley Gill

Multiplication Math Trick

Math Trick

I wanted to take a moment to share a super-easy and effective math trick that I recently discovered, which has made learning the 9 times table a breeze! Although I didn’t know this method during my own school days, I genuinely wish I had, as it would have made things so much easier. I stumbled upon it while teaching my children math at home, and it has proven to be a fantastic way to grasp the concept of multiplication.

Here’s how the trick works: grab a piece of paper and prepare to write down a simple chart. On one side, you will list the numbers in the tens place, starting from 0 and counting up to 9 (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9). On the adjacent side, you will list the numbers in the ones place, starting from 9 and counting down to 0 (9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0). 

By pairing the digits from each column together, you’ll find that you have all the answers to the 9 times table right in front of you. For example, when you pair 0 (from the tens place) with 9 (from the ones place), you get 0 × 9 = 0. With 1 and 8, you get 1 × 9 = 9; and so on, up to 9 × 9 = 81. It’s truly a breeze to visualize and memorize the 9 times table using this method!

I genuinely wish I had been introduced to this trick back in school, especially since the 9 times table always felt like a significant challenge for me. Moreover, it has become an incredibly useful tool for teaching my son, who has Dyslexia. This technique not only simplifies the process but also boosts his confidence as he learns. I highly recommend trying it out — it might just change the way you approach multiplication! breeze to do your 9 times tables with this trick. I wish I had it back in school, especially for the 9 times table, which was a real challenge. It's also been an excellent tool for teaching my son, who has Dyslexia.

Math can be an exciting adventure when you know a few clever tricks to make it easier! What’s a fun math trick you’ve discovered? We’d love to hear about it!

Motivation is a key to success

Motivation 

As we embark on a new week, let’s take a moment to inspire one another! Share a motivational quote or an uplifting story that can spark enthusiasm and drive within us. When we feel encouraged, we tap into our full potential and tackle tasks with greater efficiency and determination. Remember, motivation is a pivotal force in achieving success, and together, we can lift each other up to reach new heights. Let’s ignite that passion and energy to make this week truly remarkable!

1. Set Reasonable Goals: 

Begin by defining clear, achievable goals that align with your long-term vision. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps to make the journey less overwhelming and allow for a sense of accomplishment as you progress.

2. Review Your Goals Regularly: 

Take time each week or month to reflect on your goals. Assess your progress, adjust your plans if necessary, and remind yourself of the reasons you set these goals. This habit keeps your objectives fresh in your mind and allows you to stay on track.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive People: 

Build a support network of friends, family, and colleagues who uplift and inspire you. Positive influences can provide encouragement and help you navigate challenges more effectively. Their motivation can be contagious, boosting your own morale.

4. Always Be Nice to Yourself: 

Practice self-compassion. Acknowledge your efforts and forgive yourself for mistakes, rather than being overly critical. Speak to yourself in a kind and understanding manner, just as you would to a friend facing a similar struggle.

5. Celebrate Both the Small and Big Victories: 

Recognize and reward yourself for every achievement, no matter how minor. Celebrating small wins creates a positive feedback loop and reinforces your commitment to your goals, making the journey more enjoyable.

6. Do Not Give Up or Question Your Abilities: 

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. When doubts creep in, remind yourself of past victories and the skills you possess. A resilient mindset is key to overcoming setbacks.

7. Read a Hero Story: 

Find inspiration in the journeys of others by reading biographies or stories of individuals who have overcome adversity. Learning about their struggles and triumphs can ignite your own motivation and remind you that persistence pays off.

8. Read Motivational Quotes: 

Keep a collection of powerful quotes that resonate with you. Place them where you can see them daily, such as on your desk or on your phone. These simple reminders can provide a quick boost during challenging times.

9. Ask for Help When Needed: 

Don’t hesitate to seek support from others when you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Whether it’s advice from a mentor, encouragement from friends, or professional help, reaching out can provide new perspectives and resources to keep you moving forward. 

By incorporating these strategies into your life, you can develop a more motivated mindset that empowers you to achieve your goals and overcome obstacles. Remember, motivation is a journey, not a destination. It is influenced by various factors, and it is up to us to harness its power. Let’s keep these insights in mind as we embark on our personal motivation journeys. Are you ready to take the first step?

Alphabet Gratitude C is for Cookies

🍪COOKIES🍪

What are you grateful for today?

Comment with something you are grateful for that starts with the letter Cc.

I am thankful for Cookies.

Cookies: Crumbs of History and a Dash of Fun

Ever wonder how cookies became the sweet little bites we know and love today? Their story dates back to the 7th-century Persia, where bakers first began experimenting with sugar in innovative and delicious ways. The Dutch gave us the word “cookie” (from “koekje,” meaning “little cake”), and from there, it took on a life of its own.

One of my favorite cookie origin stories? Chocolate chip cookies were a happy accident. In 1930, Ruth Wakefield ran out of baker’s chocolate and chopped up a Nestlé bar instead. Spoiler: the chunks didn’t melt the way she expected, but history was made.

Across the globe, cookies take on a whole new identity. Brits call them biscuits, the French have sablés, Italians offer biscotti—and despite popular belief, those crispy little fortune cookies were born in California, not China.

Want to talk cookie fame? Oreos are the top-selling cookie on the planet, and America alone consumes 2 billion cookies a year. That’s about 300 per person—no judgment here.

Oh, and here’s one for your trivia stash: the world’s largest cookie weighed in at over 40,000 pounds. Let that sink in.

And for the holiday bakers out there, mark your calendar for December 4th—National Cookie Day, as if we needed an excuse.

One last quirky bite: on Sesame Street, Cookie Monster’s “cookies” are painted rice cakes. (Gotta protect those puppets!)

There are many things to be thankful for! Expressing gratitude is beneficial for your well-being. It makes others happy as well as yourself. So, always remember to be grateful! 

Facts about Tug Of War

Tug of War Facts

Did you know tug-of-war was an Olympic team sport from 1900 to 1920? Teams consisted of 6 to 8 people. The United States won three medals during the tug-of-war years at the Olympics: a gold, silver, and bronze medal. Belgium, France, Great Britain, Sweden, and the Netherlands have also won medals in tug-of-war competitions.  

What is Tug Of War? It is a contest where two teams pull on a rope at opposite ends of each other. The first team to pull the rope over the central line wins. You have to have some strong teammates to win.

Here is a list of the Nations that played tug of war during the 1900-1920 Olympics:

United States

Denmark

South Africa

Belgium

France

Italy

Greece

Great Britain

Sweden

Netherlands

Tug of war was also part of the ancient Olympics, dating back to 500 B.C. After the 1920 Olympic games, tug of war and 33 other sports were removed from the program because there were too many people competing.

Facts about Tug of War:

1. Tug-of-war dates back thousands of years and was practiced in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, India, and China. During the Tang dynasty in China, large-scale tug-of-war games involved ropes up to 548 feet long and more than 500 people on each end.

2. In ancient Greece, the sport was called helkystinda, ephelkystinda, and dielkystinda, derived from the verb helkō, meaning “I draw, I pull.”

3. Tug of war was an Olympic event from 1900 to 1920. It was part of the Summer Olympic program during those years. Only in the 19th century did it become associated with the athletic contest we know today.

4. A tug-of-war pits two teams against each other in a test of strength. The teams pull on opposite ends of a rope, aiming to bring it a certain distance in one direction against the opposing team’s pull.

5. Different versions of tug-of-war existed, including hook-pulling versions in ancient China and hand-holding versions in ancient Greece. The game was used for strength training and battle preparation.

6. Tug of War remains popular at Scottish Highland Games, social gatherings, and even as a children’s game. It continues to be a fun and competitive outdoor activity enjoyed by people of all ages.

Now that you know some facts, grab that rope and some friends and enjoy the exhilarating challenge of tug of war!

Facts about Avocados

 🥑 AVOCADO FACTS🥑

Did you know that the avocado was initially referred to as an "alligator pear"? Yes, that's correct! This quirky name dates back to 1696, when the esteemed botanist Sir Hans Sloane bestowed it upon the avocado tree, likely due to its bumpy, green skin, which resembles an alligator's texture.

Furthermore, avocados are classified as fruits, not vegetables, and they come in a stunning array of varieties, each with unique flavors and textures. Interestingly, avocados boast a higher potassium content than bananas, making them a great choice for individuals seeking to increase their nutrient intake. Their creamy consistency makes them an excellent substitute for butter in many recipes, adding richness without compromising health. With their impressive nutritional profile, avocados are not only delicious but also packed with a powerful punch of essential vitamins and healthy fats.

Here is a list of some of the nutrition you get when you eat an avocado:

Folate

Magnesium

Potassium

Pantothenic Acid, also known as Vitamin B5

Riboflavin also known as Vitamin B2

Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3

Vitamin C

Lutein

Beta carotene

Omega 3 fatty acids

Delicious Facts about Avocados:

1. Most avocados come from Mexico, where the year-round growing climate allows for abundant production.

2. The avocado is believed to have originated in the state of Puebla, Mexico. 

3. Spanish explorers arriving in Mexico during the 16th century were the first Europeans to consume avocados. As a result of the Spanish Conquest, avocados spread to South America and Central America.

4. Irishman Sir Hans Sloane called it an “avocado” in 1696 in a Jamaican plants catalog. He also dubbed the avocado tree the “alligator pear tree.”

5. Avocados gained popularity in the 1950s in the coastal states of California, Florida, and Hawaii before becoming mainstream nationwide.

6. An avocado falls firmly into the fruit category due to its botanical classification.

7. The avocado tree belongs to the Lauraceae family of flowering plants.

9. Avocados’ peak season in California is from April to July.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with these fascinating avocado facts! They'll love learning something new, and you’ll be the star of the conversation!

Facts about pizza

Let me share some fascinating facts about pizza with you. This beloved dish ranks among the most popular foods globally, enjoyed by millions of people from diverse cultures. The allure of pizza lies not only in its delicious flavors but also in the variety of toppings available. From the classic pepperoni and gooey cheese to savory sausage and an array of fresh vegetables, there’s something for everyone’s palate. Additionally, when it comes to crust, you can indulge in a thick, hearty crust ideal for holding generous toppings, or opt for a thin and crispy base that offers a delightful crunch with every bite. The world of pizza truly offers endless possibilities for customization, making it a favorite meal for any occasion.

B is for Bananas

Banana Facts

What are you thankful for today? Comment with something you are grateful for that starts with the letter Bb.

I'm grateful for Bananas.

Facts about bananas:

Bananas Are Berries: 

Contrary to common belief, bananas are classified as berries under botanical definitions. This might seem surprising, especially since strawberries, which are popularly called berries, do not meet the scientific criteria to be categorized as such. In technical terms, a berry is a fruit produced from the ovary of a single flower with seeds embedded in the flesh, and bananas fit this profile perfectly.

World Record Consumption: 

In a remarkable feat of speed and coordination, a competitive eater set a world record in 2012 by peeling and consuming eight bananas in just 60 seconds. This impressive accomplishment showcases not only the agility needed to peel the fruit quickly but also the ability to eat them at a rapid pace without compromising safety.

The Big Banana Car: 

In 2011, a quirky vehicle captured the imaginations of many: a car designed to resemble a giant banana. This enormous automobile measured approximately 23 feet in length, making it a sight to behold on the road. With the ability to reach speeds of up to 85 miles per hour, the Big Banana Car was not only a novelty but also an operational vehicle, drawing attention wherever it went.

Latex Allergy Link: 

Research has shown that individuals who are allergic to bananas may also experience allergic reactions to latex. This connection is due to the presence of similar proteins in both bananas and latex, leading to cross-reactivity. As such, people with known latex allergies are often advised to exercise caution when consuming bananas.

Gros Michel: 

The Gros Michel banana was the dominant variety consumed globally before being nearly wiped out by a devastating Panama disease in the mid-20th century. This banana was favored for its rich flavor and creamy texture. Today, it has largely been replaced by the Cavendish banana variety, which is more resistant to disease but has a different taste profile.

Variety: 

Globally, there are over 1,000 distinct varieties of bananas, each with its unique flavor profile, texture, and uses. These include cooking bananas, sweet bananas, and even ornamental varieties. This remarkable diversity highlights the versatility of this fruit and its ability to be adapted to various culinary traditions worldwide.

Marathon Record: 

In a fun blend of fitness and humor, a man from the United Kingdom made headlines in 2016 by setting the record for the fastest marathon run while dressed as a banana. This lighthearted endeavor not only highlighted the joy of participating in sports but also added a layer of entertainment to the marathon experience.

Nutritious: 

Bananas are well-regarded for their nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, and are rich in essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, as well as various antioxidants and phytonutrients. This nutrient profile makes bananas a popular choice for those seeking to maintain a healthy diet.

Heart Health: 

Consuming bananas regularly may contribute to heart health, thanks to their high potassium content. Potassium is crucial for maintaining proper heart function and can help lower blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Including bananas in your diet is a simple yet effective way to promote cardiovascular health.

Ancient Fruit: 

Bananas have a rich agricultural history, having been cultivated since ancient times. They are believed to be native to Southeast Asia, where they were first domesticated. Over the centuries, bananas have spread across the globe and have become a staple food in many cultures, reflecting their long-standing significance in human diets.

There are many things to be grateful for today and every day!