Do Something Nice Day
Call it paying it forward or committing a random act of kindness. Either way, Oct. 5 is Do Something Nice Day.
* Pay the road toll for the car in back of you. It's nice and sort of funny.
* Bring fresh fruit, baked goods or gourmet coffee to the office.
* Send a friend an e-card, "just because."
* Do something nice for yourself, too.
Balloons Around the World
"Balloon artists around the world will be taking part in an event designed to highlight the act of giving, to deliver thousands of smiles, and to showcase the art of balloon twisting and decorating," according to Balloonsaroundtheworld. The 12th annual holiday is not celebrated for any other reason than to have fun.
* Find a participating balloon artist near you.
* Watch instructional videos and make your own balloon dogs, motorcycles or penguins.
* Host a balloon decorating contest in your classroom, dorm or office.
* Sharing balloons is something nice to do (see Do Something Nice Day above).
National Apple Betty Day
There's no sneakier way to add some fiber into your family's meal than to bake up some Apple Betty. Apple Betty may also be called Apple Brown Betty, Brown Betty, Apple Crumble and Apple Crisp. It's best to make in the fall dish thanks to apple harvests and seasonal spices. This easy recipe, known since the 19th century according to Foodtimeline, use apples, rolled oats, cinnamon, sugar, butter and brown sugar. Lemon can be added to balance the sweetness. The dish can be made with or without butter.
World Teachers' Day
The United Nations and Education International honor the world's teachers on Oct. 5. "On this day we pay homage to teachers' vital contribution to the intellectual, social and economic development of societies" according to Education International General Secretary, Fred van Leeuwen.
The theme of the 2011 World Teachers' Day is Teachers for Gender Equality. "Despite the teaching profession being made up largely of women, inequality remains an issue. Even if measures to ensure equality are enshrined into the policies and constitutions of many states, for millions of female teachers, the goals remain unfulfilled. The teaching profession, both men and women, must unite and urge governments to implement their commitments," according to EI.
* Volunteer to help your child's teacher with an upcoming project.
* Send an e-card to your teacher from 5oct.org.
