Sylvia McDaniel's Blog

Can you answer these Independence Day trivia questions?

Where was the first Independence Day celebration held?How many times is the Liberty Bell rung on Independence Day?Which American president was born on July 4th?What food is most commonly consumed on the Fourth of July and how much?What year did Independence Day become a federal holiday?

Before you scroll down for the answers, share a comment with your plans for Fourth of July festivities. One lucky reader will win a $10 Amazon gift card.

ANSWERS:
1. The first Independence Day celebration was held in Philadelphia in 1777.
2. Each Independence Day, the Liberty Bell is rung 13 times.
3. President Calvin Coolidge was born on July 4, 1872.
4. It is estimated that more than 150 million hot dogs are consumed each July 4th.
5. Congress declared the Fourth of July a federal holiday in 1870.

This month I’m traveling to four different locations, three of them overseas. Living out of a suitcase is never easy, but experienced travelers often have strategies to streamline the process.

Share your best tip to make packing easier and travel more comfortable.

I’ll randomly select one commenter to win a $10 Amazon gift card!

Most birthday celebrations include a cake, gifts, and maybe balloons. What is your special way to celebrate a birthday? Maybe the cake you bake is a family heirloom recipe. Or maybe the birthday girl or boy gets to request their favorite dinner on their special day.

Share your favorite birthday traditions for a chance to win a $10 amazon gift card!

With the weather warming up and summertime approaching, it’s time to celebrate!

Mother’s Day
Father’s Day
Memorial Day
Fourth of July
Graduations
Weddings
Family Reunions

Do you have a favorite tradition, recipe, game, or destination? Comment for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card!

The arrival of May is like a soft launch for summertime. Summer doesn’t officially arrive until June 20th, but in May, the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer. People are trading sweaters and boots for shorts and flip-flops. The next logical thought is: What are we doing this summer?

Are your grandkids coming for a visit? Are you finally booking a cruise? Maybe getting the motorhome ready for a cross-country adventure? It could be you’re getting the backyard and patio in shape for some family barbecues or a simple glass of wine with friends.

Share your summer plans, even if they are just daydreams right now, for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.

Husband Appreciation Day, also known as National Husband Day or World Husband Day, is a full day intended to honor your spouse, which falls on the third Saturday in April each year.

I know, I know. We just celebrated Valentine’s Day and Father’s Day is coming up in June, and really, we should show our spouses how much we appreciate them every day. Without putting any pressure on you to formally celebrate Husband Appreciation Day, just comment with something you appreciate about your spouse for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.

Not married? You can still get in on the action by sharing a trait you most admire in spouses you admire, such as a father, brother, uncle, friend, or coworker.

Crunching tax numbers? Crack a smile, not a frown, with these funny one-liners and jokes.

Tell me your favorite (or share your own) for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card!

Why are most accountants so good-looking?
They have great figures.

Why are accountants always tired after work?
Because their job is so taxing.

What’s the difference between counting and accounting?
Counting goes “one, two, three, four…” Accounting goes “ah-one, ah-two, ah-three, ah-four…”

Which Avenger pays the least taxes?
Spider-Man, because his income is all net.

“Death, taxes and childbirth! There’s never any convenient time for any of them.” — author Margaret Mitchell

March 20th marked the official arrival of spring. I’m so ready for soft, warm breezes, sunshine on my face, colorful flowers against a vibrant green backdrop, and switching from heavy comfort food to fresh springtime fare.

What is your favorite thing about this season of blooming flowers and new beginnings? Comment for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.

My parents were great role models when it came to love and marriage. They taught me love wasn’t about grand gestures, but small moments, patience, and dedication. When I think about romance, I picture my parents dancing in the living room and laughing at the silly preciousness of the moment.

What gestures make you think of romance and love? Comment for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.

With all the snow and cold weather, there have been plenty of opportunities to curl up with a good book.

Did you discover a new favorite author or series this month? Share your favorite February read for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.