Read Alouds are back!

June 17 - INTERNATIONAL PICNIC DAY officially on June 18 of this year

Click to join at 11:30 AM on Friday June 17

What will we be reading?

Be You! by Ryan H. Reynolds

A Picnic in the Rain by Corinne Delport

This is a Taco by Andrew Cangelose

History and Origin of International Picnic Day:

For many across the world, picnics are a relaxing change of pace from their daily lives. However, the picnic as we know it today didn’t exist until the French Revolution, as public parks finally became available en masse.

Although the French are credited with the creation of modern picnics, globalization and individual cultures are responsible for their grand popularity. In 2018, 55% of young Americans said having a picnic was their favorite warm-weather activity.

And as the concept of picnics has spread, a myriad of different traditions have arisen in a plethora of different places. There are very few, if any, cultures around the world that do not engage in picnicking in their own way.

Picnics are a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy what your city has to offer you. And after a hike or walk, you’ll be antsy for a nice break and a yummy meal.

Did you know?...

...that according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the world's largest picnic was held in Lisbon, Portugal on June 20, 2009? Over 22,000 people attended this picnic!

Why we love International Picnic Day:

• It's easy to celebrate - Set-up is easy and, best of all, nobody needs to clean up their house the next day. All you need is an open space, some food, and a group of friends.
• It brings people together! - Speaking of friends, International Picnic Day is the definition of a social holiday. Gather as many people as you want, stroll to the park, and enjoy your time with them.
• You can test your culinary skills - What kind of holiday is better than one that is centered directly around eating food? It’s a great day to whip out the family recipe book and show your friends the true meaning of culinary art.

Ways to celebrate International Picnic Day:

• Have a picnic! - There’s no easier way to celebrate International Picnic Day than to just have a picnic! Grab a group of close friends and some grub, and you’re well on your way to a great time. Potlucks are great for those who don’t want to cook a lot.
• Plan some games - To many, a picnic isn’t complete without some sort of activity to play in-between plates. With something as simple as a frisbee or as elaborate as a scavenger hunt, it’s easy to create lasting memories at any picnic!
• Find a new park - What better excuse to explore your city than in search of the perfect picnic place? Chances are there are hidden parks all over your surrounding area that you haven’t had the chance to check out. Maybe you’ll find a new favorite!

May 2 - WORLD LAUGHTER DAY officially on May 1 of this year

Click to join at 1:00 PM on Monday May 2

What will we be reading?

The Serious Goose by Jimmy Kimmel

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

Don’t Call Me Bear! by Aaron Blabey

History and Origin of World Laughter Day:

World Laughter Day was founded by Dr. Madan Kataria in Mumbai, India in 1998. Dr Kataria founded the Laughter Yoga movement in 1995 and understood the positive affects laughter and smiling has on the body. This is why he started World Laughter Day, to help spread that message across the globe.

Thanks to the internet, World Laughter Day has spread to over 70 countries. And you can join in too, use the hashtag #WorldLaughterDay on social media to share some of your favourite jokes.

These past couple of years has been tough on many people, but through the power of laughter, we can all unite and overcome any obstacle.

Short-term benefits of laughing:

A good laugh has great short-term effects. When you start to laugh, it doesn't just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can:

• Stimulate many organs. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain.
• Activate and relieve your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response, and it can increase and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure. The result? A good, relaxed feeling.
• Soothe tension. Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, both of which can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.

Long-term benefits of laughing:

Laughter isn't just a quick pick-me-up, though. It's also good for you over the long term. Laughter may:

• Improve your immune system. Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. By contrast, positive thoughts can actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more serious illnesses.
• Relieve pain. Laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers.
• Increase personal satisfaction. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations. It also helps you connect with other people.
• Improve your mood. Many people experience depression, sometimes due to chronic illnesses. Laughter can help lessen your depression and anxiety and may make you feel happier.

APRIL 11 - NATIONAL PET DAY This holiday is always April 11

Click to join at 1:00 PM on Monday April 11

What will we be reading?

Charlotte and the Rock by Stephen W. Martin

You Don't Want a Unicorn! by Ame Dyckman

Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev

History and Origin of National Pet Day:

National Pet Day seeks to show appreciation for all the pets in the world. This day encourages people to love their pets and if possible, adopt those pets in need of a home. It advocates against animal cruelty and violence. It also highlights the importance of providing a home or shelter for unwanted pets.

National Pet Day was created in 2006 by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert Colleen Paige. It is observed annually on April 11th.