I was talking to someone the other day and posed the question. Can you believe the month is almost gone and just got here? Or is it just my imagination? It feels like we’re on the USS Enterprise going at warp speed. Another lady said, “Before you know it—it’ll be Christmas.” To which I replied,”Can we get through the other holidays first?”
Today is Global Hug Your Kids Day. is celebrated every year on the third Monday of July (falling on July 20, 2026). Created in 2008 by Michelle Nichols after the loss of her son, Mark, who passed away from brain cancer at age eight. It reminds parents and caregivers to pause and show physical affection. All of you busy, working parents, take a moment out and hug your children, whether they want one or not. You’d be surprised of the power of a hug!
July 29th has eighteen celebrations, which include: Colombia Independence Day, Crown Prince Haakon’s Day, Lempira Day, Marine Day in Japan, Moon Day, National Fortune Cookie Day, National Get Out of the Dog House Day, National Lollipop Day, National Ugly Truck Contest Day, President’s Day in Botswana, and Royal Welsh Show. For the full list, please click on Snoopy’s dog house.
Being a lover of backgammon and chess, today we celebrate International Chess Day. It marks the day the International Chess Federation (FIDE) was founded in Paris in 1924. UNESCO first proposed the day in 1966, and the United Nations officially recognized it in 2019 to promote global unity, fairness, and smart thinking. For those of us who play chess, this day honors the motto “Gens una sumus,” which means “We are one family” in Latin and also highlights how chess builds peace, respect, and inclusion across the world.
With all the moves and strategies one can make on the chess board had to zoom in on that white house on Pennsylvania Avenue to include NATIONAL PENNSYLVANIA DAY. Putting a positive spin on things, which honors Pennsylvania as the second state to join the United States after it ratified the U.S. Constitution on December 12, 1787. This day highlights the rich history, culture, and volunteer work across the Keystone State. It is called the Keystone State because it held a central and vital role in building the early nation, just like a middle stone holds up an arch. Did they get the memo?
Heavenly Father, As the days seem to fly by, help us cherish each moment You have given us. Remind us to slow down, embrace our loved ones, and never miss an opportunity to show kindness, encouragement, and love. Thank You for the gift of family, the joy of fellowship, and the wisdom to make choices that honor You. May we keep our eyes on Christ as we journey through each season, trusting that Your perfect timing is never rushed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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