Trans Rights Are Human Rights!

Sunday, March 31st, 2024

Although awareness of the transgender experience and of non-binary individuals has risen in recent years, there remains insufficient acceptance and understanding among the wider population of this diverse community. For example, as Stonewall.org.uk writes, there is "[a] very common misconception that all trans people must have had, or must undergo, surgery in order to be valid in their identity." This misguided belief confuses sex with gender and assumes that biological or anatomical modifications are obligatory for all trans or non-binary persons.

To remedy this misinterpretation, "[v]isbility is crucial," as Stonewall also points out. Trans stories and voices receive very little coverage in mainstream media, and the Western view of gender is still rather narrow-sighted, confined to a male-female binary. This lack of exposure and the need to broaden our horizons motivated Rachel Crandall-Crocker, in 2009, to write a Facebook post proposing a ‘Transgender Day of Visibility.’ A Transgender Day of Remembrance did exist – it still takes place on November 20 – but given the focus on death and memorialization, Crandall-Crocker wanted a "day to celebrate the living." The campaign evolved from a solitary social media post to an event which, in 2024, is celebrated by all major LGBTQIA+ organizations, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and their allies.

Finally, something that will help include and visualize transgender and non-binary identities is our use of pronouns. Not only should we make an effort to use the pronouns that people are comfortable with, but we can list or mention our own preferred pronouns, too, even if we’re not transgender or non-binary, to normalize discussions about gender. Remember, at Zazzle, there’s a place – a luxurious, roomy, presidential suite – for people of every race, gender, and sexual orientation, and we hope this Today’s Moment has opened the door to that safe space!

Time for a Stroll

Saturday, March 30th, 2024

As the weather is changing and the sun is shining more, it’s the perfect time of year to take a walk in the park! Whether you’re very active or are just starting your health journey, a walk in the park is always a great way to spend an afternoon. Taking a Walk in the Park Day is a great day to get away from working at a computer or staring at a TV screen.

Taking a walk outside can help you in more ways than one. You receive a healthy dose of Vitamin D and fresh air in your lungs, and it will help your mental health. Unlike your local gym, the local park is free, and you can have friends, family, and even your dog join you for your stroll. Take a Walk in the Park Day was created to help remind people to connect with nature and escape the routine of their daily lives.

If you live near a national park, why not make a day of it and take a picnic with you? Leave the phones or tablets at home and enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer. We have plenty of bags for you to choose from if you want to bring snacks, a football, or a frisbee. Enjoy the sun and the walk through your local park.

Good Friday

Friday, March 29th, 2024

The end of March this year brings an end, too, to the 40-day period of religious observance known as Lent in the Christian calendar. Led into the Judean Desert following his baptism by John the Baptist, Jesus fasted and evaded temptations from the Devil for 40 days, and thus, Christians give up certain luxuries at this time of year in a similar act of self-discipline. However, That solemn period culminates with the joyous Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday, in what Christianity.com describes as "the most momentous weekend in the history of the world."

On what is now known as Good Friday, around 33 A.D., Jesus Christ was crucified on Golgotha, at the behest of Roman governor Pontius Pilate. While this makes Good Friday seem like a misnomer, it’s actually the most important act Jesus performed: by willingly offering himself up for crucifixion, he ensured our salvation, and redemption for our sins. Three days later, Jesus’s tomb was found to be empty, and his Resurrection demonstrated his victory over death (a belief in the afterlife being a central tenet of Christianity).

Unlike Christmas, Easter is a movable feast: the dates of Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday fluctuate every year. This is because Easter’s timing is dependent not only on the lunar and Jewish calendar but also because it’s believed that the Last Supper, held on Holy Thursday, was a Passover Seder, and thus Easter is usually scheduled around Passover. The origins of the two festivals are complicated, but if you’d like to learn more about why Good Friday lands on March 29 this year, read Global News’ article on the subject. And if you don’t celebrate Good Friday, we at least hope that you have a good Friday regardless!

The Moon on a Stick

Thursday, March 28th, 2024

Here on the Today’s Moments team, we’re big proponents of the simple pleasures in life: rain falling against the window while you’re wrapped up snugly in bed, walking barefoot on freshly cut grass or soft, golden sand, long, dreamy conversations in the middle of the night, ruminating on the mysteries of life and love. Oh, and Bubble Wrap—huge, rolling hills of it. But above all, our favorite simple pleasure is food on a stick.

We’re not alone in this, either. National Something on a Stick Day takes place on March 28, and while the origins of this random holiday are unknown, we can assume that it’s meant to be a celebration of anything that can be served on a stick or skewer – think shish kebabs, candy apples, and ice cream. Of these, the Turkish shish kebab has the longest history: "sis," in Turkish, means "sword," and "kebab" refers to "meat," and its usage predates the Ottoman Empire (circa 1300 AD). The Popsicle®, meanwhile, was discovered in 1905 when a boy in the San Francisco Bay Area accidentally left a sugary soda out overnight. The following morning, the flavored, frozen concoction, which had had a stirring stick dipped in it, transformed into the world’s very first Popsicle® or ice pop.

In fact, most food can be served, in some fashion, on a stick – unless it’s soup, potato chips, or a buttery heap of mashed potatoes. We hope that this trip through the culinary history of corn dogs and yakitori has whet your appetite for some street food or portable homemade dishes. Here at Zazzle, we don’t sell any skewered meat – spicy chicken doesn’t fare well in our delivery packages, even at the highest shipping speeds. We do sell a variety of candy favors, however, if you’d like to follow up your teriyaki with a Hershey®’s chocolate bar!

Play Your Part

Wednesday, March 27th, 2024

"The stage is not merely the meeting place of all the arts but is also the return of art to life." - Oscar Wilde

From ancient amphitheaters to modern theaters, the stage has always been a powerful platform for storytelling, reflection, and connection. By definition, as a dramatic art form, theatre refers to live, collaborative performances with actors that use words, voice, movement, and visual elements to express meaning in front of an audience. World Theatre Day, celebrated annually on March 27th, honors this magical practice.

The world of theatre holds a rich tapestry of fascinating facts. The longest-running show, The Mousetrap, for example, has been captivating audiences since 1952, while the shortest play, The Drowning Man, lasts just 20 seconds and consists of a single line: "Help! Help! I'm drowning!" Theatre is also filled with history, superstition, and charming tales. You probably know it’s bad luck to say the name of Shakespeare's play Macbeth inside a theater (unless it’s part of a performance), but did you know that many theaters are rumored to be haunted by ghosts, including the Palace Theatre in London, where actor Ivor Novello's ghost is said to wander around the halls? Theatre is so much more than just a single performance!

So on this day, it’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate this art form and craft. Whether you're treading the boards, sitting in the audience, or simply reflecting on the profound impact of theatre, World Theatre Day invites you to celebrate the enchantment of the stage. And remember, as Alexander Pope said, "Act well your part, for there all the honor lies."

Customize Your Day

Tuesday, March 26th, 2024

Every day of the year is a national or international celebration of something, and here at Today’s Moments, we've covered lots of unique ones for each day of the year. Unfortunately, there are no more than 365 days in a year, so we might still be missing some important events!

That’s why there's an official Make Your Own Holiday Day: it encourages everyone to be creative and have a reason (or excuse, if needed) to mark anything they want to celebrate, even if it only makes sense to you and your loved ones! And no, we cannot take credit that we came up with this day, even though you all know how much we love customization! That won’t stop you from heading to our custom product pages and starting to explore and customize merch or designs for your own unique holiday.

Whether it’s a special celebration of friendship, honoring your favorite book, celebrating the joy of ice cream, or simply appreciating the beauty of nature, the possibilities are endless. It can even be a community-oriented activity, such as a charitable event. If you want to spread awareness of it, you could even make it official. To do that, you may have to communicate with your local representative, as only an official act of the legislature or government can make a holiday a national day.

So, grab your imagination and let the holiday-making begin – because on March 26th, every day is a holiday of your own creation!

When in Doubt, Wear Denim

Monday, March 25th, 2024

A denim jacket, also known as a jean jacket, is that iconic piece of clothing that’s always fashionable and comfortable to wear. It’s a wardrobe staple that transcends generations and trends! Originating as durable workwear for laborers in the late 19th century, denim jackets have evolved into a timeless piece of casual attire beloved by people around the world. They’ve found their place in pop culture, too, and have become associated with rebellion, youth culture, and coolness. From the rugged look of cowboys rocking it with Stetson hats in the Wild West to James Dean, who paired it with a simple white tee, denim jackets have left an unforgettable mark on the cultural landscape.

Here on Zazzle, this piece of apparel has gone a step further! With our unique, customizable option, denim jackets can be a blank canvas for personal expression and style. You can now showcase your individuality by adding your favorite image or design to the back of the jacket and wearing it proudly wherever you go.

Our jackets are crafted with quality denim and attention to detail, which will make them a versatile wardrobe staple. No matter how you style it, whether dressed up with a little black dress or dressed down with jeans, these jackets will add an edge to any outfit. Browse through all the wonderful designs made by our talented community of Independent Creators, or go into full creative mode to create your own art that can be easily applied to the product. It'll make a super unique gift for your loved ones, too!

Shake it Up

Sunday, March 24th, 2024

What do rum, lime, mint, and sugar have in common? They’re the ingredients of a Mojito, one of the most well-known cocktails out there, which is a concoction beloved by many for its refreshing blend of flavors. But did you know there's a whole day dedicated to celebrating the delightful world of cocktails? That's right – National Cocktail Day, marked on March 24th, is a playful ode to the art of mixology and to the joy of memories and social connections made over a shared drink.

From classics, like the Martini, Cosmopolitan, and the Old Fashioned to trendy creations like the Espresso Martini, the Aperol Spritz, and Piña Colada, every cocktail tells a story and invites us to join in the adventure. The term ‘cocktail’ has quite a long history, as it started appearing in publications across the United States in the 19th century when it referred to a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. The world of cocktails survived the prohibition era and became a dedicated craft in the ‘70s. In the early ‘80s, National Cocktail Day was created to celebrate the skill that goes into creating the perfect cocktail.

If you’d like to take part in National Cocktail Day, try shaking up your favorite recipe at home, visit a local bar to sample their signature creations, or attend cocktail-themed events and tastings. And if you attempt mixing at home, don’t forget to serve it in one of Zazzle’s cocktail glasses – it'll make for a stunning presentation.

The Magic of Rugs

Saturday, March 23rd, 2024

Step into the world of interior elegance and comfort as we dive into the artistry of rugs! Beyond being only floor coverings, rugs are an important element of interior design, bringing tales of culture, craftsmanship, and creativity into the very fabric of our living spaces. From the vibrant colors of Persian rugs that transport us to ancient bazaars to the sleek lines of contemporary designs that redefine chic, rugs are a cornerstone of home décor, offering both style and functionality.

"The Most Trendy Rugs for Every Room in Your Home" explores the role of rugs in interior design, exploring various styles, materials, and trends across different rooms in a home. It emphasizes how rugs are essential components of a well-thought-out space, connecting and anchoring various pieces of furniture. So go take a look and find out all the trends for living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas of a home and the impact rugs have on the ambiance and character of each space.

In the article, you’ll also get insights into how to use rugs to define a room's character and create a unique atmosphere based on personal taste and existing décor. It offers guidance on selecting the right size, style, and material of rugs from Zazzle for different rooms in the house! So, let’s roll out the red carpet for you and dive into the world of interior design!

Spring Has Sprung!

Friday, March 22nd, 2024

It’s time to start afresh! March marks the beginning of the spring season, and we couldn’t be more excited for longer daylight hours, milder weather, and colorful flowers.

For many people, spring symbolizes growth and renewal. It's essentially the perfect time to carry out a good ol’ spring cleaning of your home or get to work on your garden by planting some seeds and bulbs to nurture. Many gorgeous flowers thrive in springtime, with daffodils, snowdrops, and tulips being most often associated with the season. Spring brings with it strong undertones of hope and positivity as the natural world around us literally reawakens after the drearier winter period. Originally, the season was referred to as 'Lent' in Old English, but by the 16th Century, the name 'spring' was coined. It’s widely believed that this term came from how plants begin to ‘spring’ back up from the ground during this time of year!

Now that the climate feels more temperate, there’s no excuse not to get outside and play some fun lawn games and sports or host that special park picnic you’ve been dreaming of. Be sure to keep your eye out for the cute critters and insects that’ll start to reappear after winter hibernation, too!

World Poetry Day 2024

Thursday, March 21st, 2024

Today is World Poetry Day! There’s never been a more apt time to celebrate the utterly beautiful art form that is poetry. Originating from the Greek verb ‘poiesis’ (which means “making”), poetry can be defined in many ways, but it is often considered a type of literature that uses both aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of language to evoke the emotions or imagination of the reader.

Founded in 1999 by UNESCO, World Poetry Day serves as an important reminder of the power of poems and how this form of expression has been practiced throughout history and in every culture. Although it’s presumed that poetry actually predates written language itself, the very first instance of recorded poetry is thought to be the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” which dates back to 2000 BCE. Through the use of literary devices like personification, defamiliarization, metaphors, and similes, poets are able to transport us to a world of their choosing. Whether they’re conveying their personal experiences or shedding light on the experiences of many others, poetry is a crucial tool in helping us to understand both the past and present.

To get involved in World Poetry Day, you could research the work of famous poets, attend a poetry reading, or even compose your very own verse. If someone you know is an aspiring poet, why not treat them to their very own poetry notebook? Inspiration can strike at any time, so make sure that they’ve got an easy way to note their musings wherever they go!

We’re Happy and We Know It!

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

Today is the International Day of Happiness, established by the United Nations in 2013. This joyous day aims to remind us all of the integral need for happiness in our daily lives.

Happiness can be defined as a state of well-being and contentment and is, in fact, contagious. Our happiness can influence those around us, inspiring them to imitate and then, in turn, feel this positive emotion too. Did you know that happiness can also make us more resilient to illness and may even help us to live longer? If you’re feeling a little less than happy at the moment, don’t worry because happiness is a skill you can learn. Practicing mindfulness and gratitude can greatly enhance your feelings of happiness, even when times feel tough. Many different things have the power to make us happy, and these can differ greatly from person to person. However, once you’ve found your keys to happiness, we encourage you to hold onto them tightly! Whether the route to happiness for you is hiking to see a beautiful sunset, spending quality time with loved ones, or blasting your favorite music, we hope that you get to experience more and more of this awesome feeling as you progress through life.

It’s easy to immortalize your happiest moments and most treasured memories with Zazzle! This International Day of Happiness, why not pick out a personalized gift for a loved one? Remind them just how happy they make you feel and the importance they have in your life.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Today is National Let's Laugh Day! This awesome national day is all about acknowledging the importance of humor in our everyday lives. Aside from simply boosting our mood, laughter brings with it a whole host of other useful benefits as well, which we’ll explain in Today’s Moment!

Did you know that laughter can actually improve our health? Laughter has the capability to strengthen our immune systems, relax us, reduce stress, and even ease pain. In social settings, laughter can help strengthen our bonds with one another, defuse conflict or tension, and greatly improve team morale. Laughter is also proven to burn calories, so consider getting in some daily chuckles as part of your workout routine, too! Whether you’re partial to iconic comedy movies, funny cat videos, professional stand-up, clever puns, or silly knock-knock jokes, be sure to engage in something that makes you laugh today (and every day!)

Sending a loved one a funny greeting card is the perfect way to help them giggle and remind them not to take life too seriously. Pick out a hilarious design that you think they’ll enjoy, or, if you've got a comedic side, create your own funny card from scratch. Go on, make their day!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

Monday, March 18th, 2024

March 18th is Global Recycling Day. This worldwide event seeks to raise awareness surrounding the immense importance of recycling wherever possible. With the ongoing climate change crisis, it’s now more important than ever to carefully consider what you’re throwing away every day. Furthermore, the theme of this year’s Global Recycling Day is #RecyclingHeroes!

By definition, recycling is the process of collecting discarded materials from trash to turn them into new products. The first instances of the type of recycling we practice today can be traced back to the 1970s! Recycling helps protect our Earth’s natural resources, such as water, air, and gas, and is sometimes referred to as the ‘Seventh Resource.’ Did you know that recycling can save over 700 million tonnes in CO2 emissions annually? To get involved in this global initiative, start locally by volunteering at recycling centers, attending clean-ups, visiting educational events, brushing up on your knowledge of recycling itself, and using social media to spread the word about the need for more sustainable living.

In other words, we’ve got the power in our hands to make a difference! It’s up to us to make better choices in order to secure a cleaner and greener future for the generations to come. Start small by avoiding single-use plastics and by properly disposing of your recyclable trash. Some of our favorite sustainable products include our reusable water bottles and travel mugs, which can be easily personalized and are much better for the environment than plastic water bottles or disposable coffee cups!

St. Patrick's Day 2024

Sunday, March 17th, 2024

St. Patrick’s Day (also referred to as Paddy's Day or the Feast of Saint Patrick) is the largest celebration of Irish culture and heritage in the world! This delightfully green and shamrock-filled festival aims to honor the Patron Saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, and his legacy.

Wondering who St. Patrick actually was? Have no fear because, in Today’s Moment, we’re delivering you some awesome St. Patrick’s Day trivia so you can impress everybody at this year’s Paddy’s Day bash. Firstly, and this may come as a shock to many, but St. Patrick wasn't actually Irish – he was born in fourth-century Britain! At 16, Patrick was enslaved and transported to Ireland by a group of Irish invaders. During this time, he relied heavily on his Christian faith. After six years, Patrick escaped captivity and returned to his home country, but eventually returned to Ireland in 432 CE to teach people about Christianity. Legend has it that he used the shamrock to explain the holy Trinity to his students. In Ireland, St. Patrick’s work has since been honored by feasts and ceremonies every March 17th.

However, Irish immigrants worldwide, and especially in the U.S., have helped propel the reach of St. Patrick’s Day even further, holding magnificent celebrations such as elaborate parades and parties! Some common St. Patrick’s Day traditions include wearing themed attire, dying food and drinks green, and dancing to Irish music. There are also some interesting and unusual traditions worth checking out, too! No matter what way you choose to observe this fun holiday, we hope that you have a day filled with joy and pride.

The Ides Have It

Friday, March 15th, 2024

In Act I, Scene II of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar (1599), the victorious, eponymous leader is confronted by a soothsayer or fortune teller:

SOOTHSAYER: Beware the Ides of March. CAESAR: What man is that? BRUTUS: A soothsayer bids you beware the Ides of March.

Later in the play, the soothsayer’s prediction is found to ring true, as Marcus Brutus, together with his co-conspirators, stab Caesar 23 times in the Senate – and they do so on March 15th, known in the Roman calendar as the ‘Ides of March.’ In 44 BCE, the real Caesar had also been assassinated on the 15th of March, and it was this history, detailed in Plutarch’s The Life of Caesar, that Shakespeare drew upon for his play.

Because of these violent happenings – both literary and historical – the Ides of March has come to be known as a rather ominous date; in many books, movies, and TV shows, the Ides of March is synonymous with bad luck and danger. However, the Ides, as it existed in ancient Rome, was simply another date in the calendar. According to Britannica.com, in a 31-day month such as March, day one was known as ‘the Kalends,’ and day seven was known as ‘the Nones.’ Meanwhile, the ‘Ides’ referred to the first full moon of the month, which usually fell between the 13th and the 15th.

While we don’t prominently feature Plutarch on Zazzle, we have an extensive range of Shakespeare-themed merchandise. And if you’d like to pick up a few high-brow quotes to slip into conversation, then take a look at "Our Top 12 Classic Shakespeare Quotes and Their Meanings." Whether you want to take arms against a sea of troubles, put money in thy purse, or compare someone to a summer’s day, there’s something for every friend, Roman, or countryman here.

Pi in the Sky

Thursday, March 14th, 2024

Talk of pi – as in, the mathematical symbol π and not the creamy dessert – may induce high-school flashbacks for some readers. Remember not being able to grasp geometry, even though you studied it from every angle? Or did you struggle more with algebra, where with every chapter in the textbook, you felt you were back to square one? Personally, we always felt calculus was derivative and hardly integral.

Math can be fun, however, and interesting. Take Pi Day, which takes place annually on March 14. First theorized by Greek mathematician Archimedes over 2,000 years ago, pi represents a simple sum: it’s the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, which will always equate to 3.141592653589793238462643383279502884197… (typically abbreviated to 3.14 or 22/7). Pi is an irrational, transcendental constant, you see, meaning the digits following the decimal point will continue endlessly. Indeed, one of the most popular Pi Day activities involves reciting pi to as many decimal places as possible (computationally calculated to 100 trillion numbers thus far, thanks to Google Cloud).

Pi Day was unofficially founded in 1988 by physicist Larry Shaw of The Exploratorium, and the U.S. House of Representatives recognized the holiday in 2009. If you can think of countless other things to do than memorize infinite pi digits, however, then at least know that the sign is used every day by programmers, statisticians, engineers, and astronauts. In fact, you could say they use it constantly!

Going Global

Wednesday, March 13th, 2024

In a world of globalization, multinational corporations, and digital nomads, it’s never been more important to familiarize yourself with international business etiquette. While you might be accustomed to U.S. practices and audiences, the habits you’ve acquired there may not necessarily translate to countries in Asia, Europe, or South America. Failing to research the proper etiquette for the country you’re negotiating with could cost you a deal, offend your international partners, and leave you looking rather sheepish, caught awkwardly between a bow, kiss, and handshake.

For example, Business.com notes that, while meetings are largely focused on work in the U.S., in other countries, it’s customary to ask about a person’s family and health before getting down to business. Likewise, while eye contact is expected and encouraged in the U.S., it’s discouraged elsewhere and can be seen as rude or confrontational. To prevent you from committing these cultural faux pas, then, we’ve gathered together a list of crucial tips for navigating business meetings with participants from Japan, China, India, France, and Brazil. Our "International Business Etiquette" article explains, for instance, that French and Indian business people aren’t always on time, while in Brazil, most appointments tend to run late, and are usually continued over dinner. Being prepared for these differences will make you seem like a savvy, culturally sensitive candidate, and benefit your professional and personal relationships with these international counterparts.

Finally, perhaps the most vital piece of advice we can give is to start designing and ordering a generous stack of business cards: in a lot of countries, and particularly in Asia, the exchange of cards is a ritual, and they’re treated with the utmost respect. Browse our business cards page for thousands of personalized templates, and if you need a step-by-step guide, follow the instructions in our "How to Design Your Own Unique Business Card on Zazzle" article. Then, when your would-be client or partner proffers their own business card, you’ll be able to proudly reciprocate!

Everything's Coming Up Roses

Tuesday, March 12th, 2024

Yesterday was National Napping Day, and we hope that, in the wake of that somniferous holiday, you’ve returned to our Today’s Moment page feeling revitalized and rejuvenated, ready to put your newfound energy to good use. Fortunately for you, we have just the idea: National Plant a Flower Day, which, as the name suggests, urges you to make lilies, azaleas, and chrysanthemums your best buds.

Although the roots of National Plant a Flower Day are unknown, we know a lot more about the history of flowers themselves. Before the Cretaceous era (145 to 66 million years ago), the Earth was covered in ferns and other coniferous plants. Around 135 million years ago, however, angiosperms – or flowering plants – began to bloom, and they’ve only grown in popularity since for their diverse coloring, intoxicating perfumes, and even their psychological benefits. In ancient Egypt, flower arrangements were used to decorate homes, gardens, and tombs, and in the Victorian period, each plant was assigned symbolic qualities and human characteristics. For example, bluebells were said to represent kindness, while rosemary was associated with remembrance. How the flowers were presented also impacted their meaning, such as whether the bouquet was upside down or whether it was given with the left or right hand.

Nowadays, the individual connotations of each species – besides, say, romantic roses – are something known only to historians, botanists, and well-read florists, but that doesn’t mean you can’t join in on the fun of planting and nurturing a flower. If you don’t consider yourself a particularly green-fingered individual, then National Day Archives recommends starting with sunflowers, marigolds, and pansies, as they’re easy to cultivate and maintain. And if you really feel like a greenhorn when it comes to gardening, then take a look at our floral gifts page: an Edenesque celebration of our Independent Creators’ favorite flowers (and Zazzle products)!

Forty Winks

Monday, March 11th, 2024

We’d hate to think that our Today’s Moment segment – these bite-sized chunks of trivia that we’ve been doling out for years now – would send any reader to sleep. However, on March 11, also known as National Napping Day, we’re going to make an exception and actively encourage you to fall asleep while on your phone, keyboard, or tablet. The Land of Nod awaits!

See, you probably are in need of a nap anyway, as March 10 marked the beginning of Daylight Saving Time (DST). Because the clocks have ‘sprung forward,’ you, along with the rest of the U.S., are operating on a slightly reduced sleep schedule, and this less-than-optimal situation has been linked to an increased risk of stroke and car accidents on the days following the switch. In response to this, Boston University psychologist William Anthony, along with his wife Camille, founded National Napping Day in 1999. According to Anthony, the couple "figured [the day after DST begins] would be a good day to celebrate the importance of napping because everyone is one hour more sleep-deprived than usual." Considering that March is also National Sleep Awareness Month and March 17 is World Sleep Day, there’s no better month of the year to catch up on some shut-eye.

The benefits of napping have been well documented, too: extra sleep enhances productivity, decreases the risk of heart-related conditions, and improves short-term alertness. However, the length of the nap is key: dozing for too long can cause you to enter a deeper sleep cycle and leave you feeling groggy and absent-minded when you wake up. To truly reap the rewards of a well-deserved siesta, keep it to 20 or 30 minutes. You’ll rise feeling refreshed, energized, and especially cozy – provided you’re celebrating National Napping Day with one of our fleece or sherpa blankets.

Ramadan Mubarak

Sunday, March 10th, 2024

It's that time of year again, the start of the holy month of Ramadan. Every year, Muslims around the world prepare for Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During this month, Muslims choose to fast as a way to bring themselves closer to God, as well as a way to practice self-control, show gratitude, and demonstrate their compassion for the less fortunate. This is not a blanket requirement; children, expectant mothers, and the elderly are all exempt from this tradition of fasting.

According to National Geographic, the start date of the month of Ramadan changes each year as it fluctuates with the moon's phases. The Moon Sighting Committee keeps an eye out for a new crescent moon, which can be hard to see, as it's quite faint and usually only visible for 20 minutes. If it can't be seen due to clouds or a haze, the Committee/committee uses lunar calculations to predict its position in the sky. After sunset prayers every evening during Ramadan, members of the Muslim community will return to their homes and break their fast.

If you’ve never participated in Ramadan or are entirely new to this holy holiday, check out this second National Geographic article about how Muslims in the U.S. celebrate the day.

Happy Graduation!

Saturday, March 9th, 2024

Let the bragging rights commence. Graduation season is approaching, and your loved ones eagerly await the special ceremony! When it comes to watching our offspring grow up and graduate from kindergarten to university, our hearts tend to fill with more and more pride. Some of us may be experts by now in announcing graduations for our thriving scholars, but for the parents just starting out, we’re here to help you share the amazing news in the best way possible.

There are certain formalities when it comes to announcing graduations, as we care about our collegians and their families so much, we've set some time aside to come up with an official guide to “Graduation Announcement Wording Tips & Etiquette.” Throughout this article, we’ve broken down each important step of creating the perfect announcement invitation and have wording ideas for graduation invitations and cards.

If you’re looking for more graduation tips and tricks, we’ve got other graduation-themed articles for you to read: our “How to Plan a Graduation Party” article is bursting with product ideas like banners, pennants, and balloons. Consider Zazzle to be the master for all graduation needs in your life to get you through this milestone and other important events in the future.

A Day for the Ladies!

Friday, March 8th, 2024

Every year on the 8th of March, we celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of women worldwide. For many centuries, women were under-appreciated and didn't receive recognition for their contribution to society. Celebrate women everywhere with us this International Women's Day!

This important day was created in the early 1900s during the first wave of suffragettes. It wasn’t until 1977, however, that the day was officially recognized by the United Nations as an international holiday. Since 1966, the holiday has always been celebrated in the US with a theme, with this year's theme being "Invest in women: Accelerate progress"! This means that 2024's International Women's Day will celebrate diversity and empowerment in all elements of society. Take a stand by using the hashtag #InvestInWomen.

The U.N. has also compiled a list of five ways for people to make a difference this International Women's Day. These points include encouraging people to invest in women, striving to end poverty, implementing gender-responsive financing where possible, shifting to a greener economy, and, finally, supporting feminist change-makers. If you’re going to any event for this special day, or hosting a party of your own, you can find everything you need on our International Women's Day Gifts page!

Breakfast of Champions

Thursday, March 7th, 2024

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! A healthy meal is the best way to start the day right, after all. Cereal is a great option for breakfast; it's quick, healthy, and comes in many flavors to suit all tastes. So pour your favorite cereal into a bowl and add the milk type of your choice: 2%, whole, 1%, skim, or even alternative kinds of milk, like soy, almond, and oat. Then dig in to celebrate National Cereal Day!

The Kellogg brothers accidentally invented cereal in the hopes of making oatmeal, which had become the latest healthy option. They left a batch out overnight, and it became stale; then they tried it with corn, which led to modern-day cornflakes, a Kellogg’s staple. over the years, cereal has changed from being a health option to a mixture that contains marshmallows, berries, and even a toy at the bottom. Cereal boxes have even become so important that athletes and celebrities want to be on the front of them!

Have some fun today by eating cereal for every new meal, trying a new type, or making your own unique cereal by combining a few. On Zazzle, you can find a customized bowl or show your love for all things cereal by finding a new poster for your kitchen. Whether you like crunchy cereal, marshmallow toppings, or on-the-go cereal bars, enjoy the day!

Wedding Envelope Addressing

Wednesday, March 6th, 2024

Congratulations on getting engaged! We’re sure you’re very busy planning every detail, making sure everything will be perfect. Know that we’re here to help you with even the smallest of details for your big day! We have it all, from invitations to thank you cards and everything in between! Zazzle is officially your one-stop shop for all important wedding supplies.

We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of wedding knowledge, the newest trends, and the oldest traditions. Sending personalized wedding invitations adds an air of sophistication to any wedding. By personalizing your envelopes, you’ll make sure that if any invitations get returned to sender, they will be returned to you. At Zazzle, we offer a new free recipient addressing service, and everything you need to know about this service option, along with how to customize your cards, can be found in our article: “How to Address Wedding Invitation Envelopes.”

The wonderful thing about weddings is everyone is happy for you no matter what. Make the event of them receiving your invitation extra special with customized envelopes, address labels, and even embossers for all your wedding stationery are also available! We hope that your wedding goes well and is everything you dream it will be.

Let's Get Crafting!

Tuesday, March 5th, 2024

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the official meaning of crafting is the activity or hobby of making decorative objects with your hands, which, to us, means you can craft something each and every day in your daily life. Consider this: You likely have far more hobbies than you realize. While crafting typically brings to mind arts and crafts, our daily activities involve numerous other forms of creation and design. Cooking, for example: we do it every day, but do you enjoy it? Do you add extra seasoning or put extra detail into the presentation (even when nobody else is looking)? If the answer is yes, well, then you might have a cooking craft. In celebration of National Craft Month, we’re here to share some advice about how to uncover your crafting abilities

As March brings a new season, why not use this as an excuse to start or research a new hobby, skill, or craft? If you’re looking for some assistance, we’ve found an article that has several creative hobby ideas that can help you become a better version of yourself in 2024. Creativity is not only great for the mind, but it also helps you communicate better with others, adapt to different situations, and find purpose and meaning. We all ponder about life's purpose from time to time, and what better way than putting your mind and hands to work to see if you can find a deeper meaning to your life!

If you’re digitally talented, we recommend you take a look at our Creator page, where you can learn more about the opportunities there are on Zazzle to share your artwork with the world. All you have to do is make a storefront, add your pieces of art/calligraphy to our products, and then wait for us to produce and send them out to anyone who orders them. It’s as easy as that! And don’t worry about payment or credit because you'll receive royalties when your artwork is used. However you choose to celebrate National Craft Month, we hope you find joy in doing something new and fun.

Grammar Matters

Monday, March 4th, 2024

Every day's a learning day and in Today’s Moment, we’re going to take you on an educational adventure in honor of National Grammar Day. English is the most spoken language in the world, including native and non-native speakers, but it's also one of the most difficult to learn. Getting a grasp on its grammatical rules can be a challenge to anybody because of irregular verbs and inconsistent pronunciation patterns. Choose today as the day to learn or educate others on how diverse language learning can be.

If you’re a fluent English speaker and considering learning a new language, you might be surprised at what other languages are similarly structured. Babbel.com shares an insight into a few languages you might pick up easier than others, such as Norwegian, Portuguese, and Italian. Norwegian has only one verb for each tense, and the word order coincides with the English language. Italian has a relatively simple and consistent grammar composition compared to some other Romance languages. For English speakers, this can make it easier to grasp concepts such as verb conjugation and sentence structure; Portuguese is much the same, as it shares many cognates with English due to the two languages' Latin roots. There are numerous other languages that boast similar rules, providing ample motivation to refine your linguistic prowess this year.

As today’s educational lesson is coming to an end, let’s discuss the most common grammar mistakes in the English language. Do you know the difference between their and there, your and you’re, or than and then? Let’s check! Can you tell us if this sentence is correct –

‘You we’re on the way to meet you’re friend at the park, but than you’re phone rang and you we’re needed urgently by you’re mum, so you ran over their!’

We sense a lot of shaking heads right about now, but don’t worry, we’re just trying to spread a few giggles in honor of this great day. If you want to share insightful knowledge with others and put an end to the misspelling, be sure to check out our grammar posters that you can customize. Education is key and where – sorry, we're – here to help!

Connecting People, Animals, and the Planet!

Sunday, March 3rd, 2024

World Wildlife Day is a global celebration aimed at raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. This year, the theme of "Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation" highlights the crucial role of technology in safeguarding our planet's biodiversity.

According to Worldwildlife.org, infrastructure, deforestation, climate change, and many other human factors are causing harm to landscapes, river systems, and seascapes – which in turn directly affects our wildlife and their habitats. Our wild animals rely on ecological connectivity, which is what enables them to move freely on land or in water to forage for food, breed, and establish new home territories. With protected areas on the decline, they're in need of our help to survive.

Fortunately, there are numerous ways you can contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. How about donating to foundations such as the World Wildlife Fund, which uses cutting-edge technology to assist with the protection and monitoring of wildlife? You could also support preservation organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Network, which seeks to develop sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife in a diverse range of communities. As we commemorate World Wildlife Day and reflect on the theme of connectivity, let’s recognize the power of digital innovation in shaping a sustainable future for both people and the planet. By taking action today, whether through donations, advocacy, or personal engagement, we can all play a part in preserving the rich tapestry of life on Earth for generations to come!

Happy Birthday!

Saturday, March 2nd, 2024

Are you a big fan of Dr. Seuss? We sure are! And in his honor, not only are we promoting official merchandise for you to purchase, but we've written a little poem in celebration of his birthday, too!

On March 2nd, we celebrate Dr. Seuss’ special day, We gather around to laugh and to play, With words that dance and pictures so bright. He fills our world with pure delight.

Oh, the places we've been and the things that we've seen, In books of red, blue, and green. So let's raise a toast, with cake and cheer, To a classic storyteller whom we all hold dear.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss, in this rhyme we sing, About your legacy, and how you’ll always bring, Joy, laughter, love and cartoon fun, In the world of Seuss, we're all as one!

Let’s Celebrate Remarkable Women Throughout History!

Friday, March 1st, 2024

In honor of Women's History Month, we want to honor a few significant women who helped pave the way toward the freedom we're lucky to have in the twenty-first century. Today, we're going to hone in on our four outstanding women in U.S. history via our short poem below. It's time to reflect on their achievements and to express our gratitude, appreciation, and admiration for these trailblazers.

In olden times, Abigail Adams wrote wise letters, She was smart and spoke up to be treated better. Susan B. Anthony fought for voting rights, She never gave up, even on the darkest nights.

Sojourner Truth spoke the truth loud and clear, She fought against the chains, for all to hear. Rosa Parks sat down for what was right, Her bravery sparked a shining light.

In Women's History Month, we honor these four, Their courage and strength we always adore. Their stories inspire, and it’s easy to see, How they guide us forward, to what we can be.