Facts about Cookies

Last week, the emphasis was on expressing gratitude for various items and experiences that start with the letter B. Today, we encourage you to share something you are thankful for that begins with the letter C. This practice aims to cultivate a spirit of appreciation and reflection among participants. Your contributions are valued and play a significant role in promoting gratitude.

I'm grateful for Cookies. What are you grateful for that begins with the letter C?

🍪 A Sweet Bite of History: The Delicious Journey of Cookies

Ever wonder how cookies became the irresistible treats we know and love today? Their story stretches back to 7th-century Persia, where bakers first began experimenting with sugar in innovative (and delicious) ways. As baking techniques spread, so did the popularity of these sweet little bites.

The Dutch brought us the word “cookie,” from koekje, meaning “little cake.” From there, cookies took on a life of their own, evolving into a global snack that’s as diverse as the cultures that embraced it.

🍫 The Chocolate Chip Surprise

One of the most charming origin stories? The creation of chocolate chip cookies! In 1930, Ruth Wakefield, owner of the Toll House Inn, ran out of baker’s chocolate and chopped up a Nestlé bar instead. She expected it to melt into the dough. It didn’t. Instead, the gooey chocolate chunks stayed put, and the world rejoiced.

🌍 Cookies Around the Globe

Cookies wear many disguises:

• Brits call them biscuits.
• The French delight in sablés.
• Italians savor crunchy biscotti.
• And those crispy little fortune cookies? Surprise, they were invented in California, not China.

🏆 The Fame Game: Cookies by the Numbers

If you're looking for cookie royalty, the crown goes to the Oreo, the top-selling cookie on the planet. In the U.S. alone, people consume 2 billion cookies a year. That’s roughly 300 cookies per person. Zero judgment here.

🎉 Trivia Crumbs

Need a sweet fact for your next quiz night? Try this:

• The world’s largest cookie weighed in at over 40,000 pounds. Yes, really.
• December 4th is National Cookie Day; mark your calendars, holiday bakers!
• And here’s one from the land of puppets: on Sesame Street, Cookie Monster's cookies are actually painted rice cakes. Gotta protect those Muppet mouths!

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! 

Hey everyone! 🌟 Next week, we're in for a treat as we celebrate everything that starts with the letter D! Let's come together to share our gratitude for all the delightful things, from cozy comforts to intriguing curiosities. It’s a wonderful opportunity to appreciate all the lovely things this letter brings! Can’t wait to see what you all come up with! 

Get your cookie worksheet here:

🍪 C Is for Cookie: "Create-a-Cookie Gratitude Plate"

Let children decorate pretend cookies with colorful expressions of what they're thankful for—using art, imagination, and maybe a little frosting flair if you're feeling adventurous!

🖍️ What You’ll Need:

• Paper “cookie” cutouts in round, star, or heart shapes
• Markers, crayons, glitter glue, stickers, or scrap craft materials
• A paper plate or placemat labeled “My Cookie of Gratitude”
• Optional: Real sugar cookies + edible decorating supplies (frosting, sprinkles, etc.)

🎨 Activity Instructions:

• Give each child a set of cookie shapes (you can pre-cut or let them trace and cut).
• Ask them to decorate each cookie with something they’re grateful for: words, pictures, patterns, or textures.
• One cookie could say, “Mom hugs.”
• Another could be drawn to look like their pet
• A third might show sunshine, books, or their favorite silly joke
• Arrange cookies on a paper plate and invite them to share the "flavors" of their gratitude.
• Bonus: Display their plates on a wall under the title “We’re Thankful Batch by Batch!”

🧁 Optional Extension:

If you’re baking real cookies, let kids decorate one with their name and a thankful word before snack time. A sweet treat and a sweet thought!

Return to the Alphabet Hub!

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

Avocados were once called “alligator pears,” and that’s just the beginning of their fascinating story. From ancient origins to modern superfood status, here’s a blog post packed with juicy facts to delight your readers.

🥑 Avocados: From Alligator Pears to Nutritional Powerhouses

Did you know the avocado was once known as an alligator pear? The name, coined in 1696 by Irish botanist Sir Hans Sloane, was inspired by its bumpy green skin, which resembles the texture of an alligator. But this quirky nickname is just one chapter in the avocado’s rich and delicious history.

🌱 Ancient Origins and Global Journey

Avocados (Persea americana) are native to the tropical regions of Mexico, Guatemala, and the West Indies, with evidence of cultivation dating back nearly 10,000 years. The state of Puebla, Mexico, is considered the avocado’s birthplace. Mesoamerican tribes domesticated the tree over 5,000 years ago, and Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to taste it in the 16th century. Thanks to the Spanish Conquest, avocados spread throughout Central and South America, eventually reaching the U.S.

Avocados gained popularity in California, Florida, and Hawaii during the 1950s, and today, they’re a staple in kitchens across the country. Mexico remains the world’s top producer, thanks to its year-round growing climate.

🍃 What Makes an Avocado a Fruit?

Botanically speaking, avocados are fruits, not vegetables. They belong to the Lauraceae family, which also includes cinnamon and bay leaves. Surprisingly, avocados are also classified as berries due to their fleshy pulp and single seed.

💪 Nutritional Superstars

Avocados are celebrated for their creamy texture and impressive nutritional profile. They contain more potassium than bananas, making them excellent for heart health and muscle function. Their healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fats, support brain health and help lower bad cholesterol.

Here’s a snapshot of what you get in every bite:

• Folate – supports cell growth and pregnancy health

• Magnesium – aids in muscle and nerve function

• Potassium – regulates blood pressure

• Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) – helps convert food into energy

• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) – supports skin and eye health

• Niacin (Vitamin B3) – boosts metabolism

• Vitamin C – strengthens immunity

• Lutein – promotes eye health

• Beta carotene – converts to Vitamin A for vision and skin

• Omega-3 fatty acids – support heart and brain health

🧈 A Healthy Swap

Thanks to their creamy consistency, avocados make a perfect substitute for butter in baking and cooking. They add richness without compromising health, making them ideal for smoothies, spreads, and even desserts.

📅 Seasonal Spotlight

In California, avocado season peaks from April to July, though they’re available year-round thanks to global imports. Whether mashed into guacamole or sliced onto toast, avocados are versatile, filling, and endlessly delicious.

🥑 Avocado Adventure: “Fruit or Veggie?”-ACTIVITY

Theme: Nature facts, healthy eating, gratitude

Ages: 6–10

Format: Printable worksheet or journal page

🧠 Part 1: “Avocado Fact Detective”

Read and write each sentence and write whether you think it is TRUE or FALSE:

• Avocados were once called “alligator pears.”

• Avocados are vegetables.

• Avocados have more potassium than bananas.

• Avocados grow best in snowy mountains.

• Avocados are berries with one big seed.

Bonus:

Which fact surprised you the most? Write it below!

🎨 Part 2: “Design Your Dream Avocado Toast”

Draw your perfect avocado toast! Add toppings like tomatoes, eggs, cheese, or even strawberries.

Prompt:

“Avocados are creamy and full of healthy fats. What would you add to make your toast tasty and colorful?”

🧈 Part 3: “Butter Swap Challenge”

Avocados can replace butter in recipes!

Prompt:

“Imagine you’re baking cookies. Instead of butter, you use mashed avocado. What do you think they’d taste like? Write or draw your answer.”

💚 Part 4: “Gratitude for Growing Things”

Avocados grow on trees and need sunshine, water, and care.

Reflection Prompt:

“Think of something in nature you’re thankful for, like a fruit, flower, or tree. 

Write one sentence or draw a picture to show your gratitude.”

Final Thought:

From ancient Aztec farms to modern brunch tables, avocados have earned their place as a beloved superfood. Share these facts with your family and friends, you’ll be the star of the conversation, and they’ll never look at guacamole the same way again!

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

Last week, we focused on expressing gratitude for items and experiences that begin with the letter A. Today, we invite you to participate by sharing something you are thankful for that starts with the letter B. Your contributions can foster a spirit of appreciation and reflection.

I'm grateful for Bananas. What are you grateful for that begins with the letter B?

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.

5 extra pays

💸 Surprise Paycheck? Here’s Why It Happens!

Did you know that if you’re paid weekly, you might get an extra paycheck every 5 to 6 years? It’s true, and it’s one of those little calendar quirks that can feel like a mini bonus!

Let’s break it down.

📆 Why Does This Happen?

Most people who are paid weekly receive 52 paychecks a year. That usually means four extra paychecks beyond the standard 12-monthly budgets.

But here’s the twist:

Because the calendar year doesn’t divide perfectly into weeks, some years sneak in a 53rd payday, meaning five extra paychecks instead of four!

This happens when the first payday of the year falls on the very first day or two of January, and the year ends on a day that still allows for a 53rd Friday (or whatever weekday your pay falls on). It’s all about how the dates line up.

🗓️ So, When Does It Happen?

Here’s a list of years when weekly-paid employees may have received (or will receive) five extra paychecks:

Past & Future Bonus Paycheck Years:

1897, 1904, 1909, 1915, 1920, 1926, 1932, 1937, 1943, 1948, 1954, 1960, 1965, 1971, 1976, 1982, 1988, 1993, 1999, 2004, 2010, 2016, 2021,

Coming up next: 2027, 2032, 2038, 2044, 2049, 2055, 2060, 2066, 2072, 2077, 2083, 2089, 2094, 2100, 2106, 2112, 2117, 2123

If you’re paid weekly, keep an eye on your pay calendar; your next “extra paycheck year” might be closer than you think!

💡 What Can You Do With That Bonus?

That extra paycheck is a great opportunity to:

• Add to your emergency fund

• Pay down debt

• Treat yourself to something special

• Donate to a cause you care about

• Save for a future goal

Whatever you choose, it’s a little reminder that time and timing can work in your favor.

Facts about the Four Seasons

🌎 The Beautiful Rhythm of the Seasons

The year unfolds like a colorful storybook, with four distinct chapters: spring, summer, autumn (or fall), and winter. Each season brings its own personality, its own weather, traditions, and natural wonders. Together, they form a beautiful cycle of change, growth, and reflection.

Let’s explore the magic of each one:

🌸 Spring: Nature’s Awakening

Spring bursts onto the scene with blossoms, birdsong, and gentle warmth. Trees sprout fresh green leaves, flowers bloom in every color, and animals awaken from their winter naps. It’s a season of renewal, growth, and joyful beginnings.

☀️ Summer: Sunshine & Adventure

Summer wraps the world in warmth and light. Days grow longer, and the outdoors come alive with beach trips, picnics, and laughter. Ice cream cones melt in the sun, and families gather for barbecues and fireworks. It’s a time for fun, freedom, and exploration.

🍂 Autumn: A Colorful Transition

As summer fades, autumn paints the trees in fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges. Leaves crunch underfoot, and cooler breezes whisper of change. It’s a season of harvest, gratitude, and cozy traditions like apple picking and pumpkin carving.

❄️ Winter: Quiet Beauty

Winter arrives with crisp air and snowy silence. The world slows down, wrapped in blankets and twinkling lights. Holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah fill hearts with warmth, while snowflakes dance outside. It’s a time for reflection, togetherness, and peaceful wonder.

🌍 Why Do Seasons Change?

The Earth doesn’t stand straight; it’s tilted at about 23.5 degrees. As it orbits the sun, different parts of the planet receive more or less sunlight. That’s what creates the seasons!

• When the Northern Hemisphere tilts toward the sun, it’s summer there and winter in the Southern Hemisphere.

• When the tilt shifts, the seasons reverse!

This gentle wobble in Earth’s position creates the rhythm we live by: blooming springs, sunny summers, golden autumns, and snowy winters.

🌈 Final Thought: Seasons Shape Our Story

From the first flower of spring to the last snowflake of winter, the seasons guide our lives. They influence what we wear, how we celebrate, and how we feel. They remind us that change is natural and beautiful.

So wherever you are in the world, and whatever season surrounds you right now, take a moment to notice its gifts. The Earth is always turning, always teaching, always inviting us to grow.

🍁 Explore the Seasons: A Think, Draw & Talk Activity

No need to type, just read, imagine, and explore! This activity is perfect for kids to do on their own, with a grown-up, or in a classroom.

🌸 1. Season Match-Up

Say the name of the season that matches each clue out loud:

• Blossoms bloom, animals wake up, and the air feels fresh.

• Long sunny days, beach trips, and ice cream cones.

• Leaves turn red, orange, and gold. Time for harvest!

• Snow falls, the air is crisp, and cozy holidays arrive.

👉 Can you point to a window and guess which season it is right now?

☀️ 2. My Favorite Season

Grab a piece of paper and draw a picture of your favorite season.

Add things you love about it, like sunshine, snowflakes, pumpkins, or flowers!

🖍️ Bonus: Write the name of the season at the top of your drawing.

🍂 3. Season Swap

Imagine you’re visiting a country on the other side of the world.

If it’s summer where you live, what season might it be there?

🎒 Draw or talk about what you’d pack in your suitcase for that season!

❄️ 4. Gentle Reflection

Each season brings change, and change helps us grow.

💭 Think about this:

What’s something new you’ve learned or tried this year?

Tell a friend, draw a picture, or whisper it to yourself with a smile.

Books about the seasons:

1. The Squirrels’ Busy Year (A First Science Storybook) by Martin Jenkins

2. Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson

3. My Friend Earth by Patricia MacLachlan

4. A Tree For All Seasons by Maryse Guittet