Category Archives: Holidays

Prost (Cheers) from Munich

Posted on by

 

 Oktoberfest Is in Full Swing! 🍺

stock photo

If you’ve ever dreamed of dancing to oompah music with a pretzel in one hand and a frothy beer stein in the other, now’s the time to make it happen. In Munich, we’re right in the heart of Oktoberfest—the world’s largest beer festival and a beloved celebration of Bavarian culture. This year, the official dates run from September 20 to October 5, and the city is alive with tradition, laughter, and plenty of hops.

A Festival Rooted in History

Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. What started as a horse race and public party has evolved into a global phenomenon, drawing millions of visitors to Munich each year. The festival grounds, known as the Theresienwiese, transform into a sprawling wonderland of beer tents, carnival rides, folk music, and hearty German fare.

stock photo

What to Wear and What to Sip

To truly embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest, don your lederhosen (for men) or dirndl (for women)—traditional Bavarian attire that’s both festive and functional. Then head to one of the 14 massive beer tents, each offering its own unique atmosphere and brews from Munich’s six major breweries. Whether you’re sipping a Märzen (the classic Oktoberfest beer) or sampling seasonal specialties, every stein comes with a side of camaraderie.

More Than Just Beer

While beer is the star of the show, Oktoberfest is also a celebration of culture, community, and joy. Families flock to the fairgrounds for rides and games, while food lovers indulge in roast chicken, sausages, sauerkraut, and giant pretzels. Traditional music fills the air, and spontaneous dancing is always encouraged.

stock photo

Raise Your Stein and Join the Fun

Whether you’re in Munich or celebrating from afar, Oktoberfest invites everyone to toast to good times and great company. So grab your stein, raise it high, and shout a hearty “Prost!”—because this is one festival where joy is always on tap.

 

stock photo-

 

A Gothic Cat Tree That’s Drop-Dead Fabulous

Posted on by

 

🖤 “Paws of the Crypt”: A Gothic Cat Tree That’s Drop-Dead Fabulous

This Halloween, give your feline familiars a throne worthy of their mysterious majesty. The Heavy Duty Gothic Cat Tree isn’t just a scratching post—it’s a statement piece for cats who rule the night. With blood-red accents and a coffin-shaped bed, it’s the purrfect blend of spooky and stylish.

Whether your cat is a curious vampire or a lounging ghost, this single-tier tree offers spacious comfort and eerie elegance. Designed for large cats who love to sprawl, scratch, and survey their haunted domain, it’s built to last through nine lives and beyond.

Available at Welcominghaven.com Here

🎃 Why Your Cat Will Love It

  • Spacious Coffin Bed: Measuring 23.8 x 16.1 inches, it’s deep enough for dramatic naps and midnight musings.
  • Stable Square Base: At 13.8 x 13.8 inches, the heavy-duty box keeps things grounded—even when your cat’s zoomies go full poltergeist.
  • Elevated Platform: The 19.7-inch rise from base to bed gives your cat the perfect perch to judge mortals from above.
  • Tree Branch Accent: Standing 23.6 inches tall, it adds a whimsical, witchy vibe that’s more Salem than suburban.

Crafted in bold black and red, these Gothic Themed cat trees turns your living room into a haunted haven. It’s not just décor—it’s a lifestyle upgrade for cats with flair. Order Here

Globlazer Heavy Duty Gothic Cat Tree, 72in Large Cat Tower with Coffin Bed, Sturdy Maine Coon Cat Tree for Large Cats 20 lbs+, Medieval Castle Style with 6 Scratching Posts & Hammock, S72, Black & Red

🕸️ Affiliate Disclosure

Heads up, cat lovers! This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that fit the vibe of Around Dusty Roads and make tails wag (or curl mysteriously around a candle).Thanks for supporting Around Dusty Roads and helping keep the storytelling flowing

Want to add a little haunted luxury to your home? This Gothic Cat Tree is more than a Halloween treat—it’s a year-round throne for your furry familiars. Banner and Balboa would approve.

Banner and Balboa – photo credit Deb Neumann

 

 

Your Birthday Is in September—Are You Special?

Posted on by | 2 Comments

 

🎉 Your Birthday Is in September—Are You Special?

Calendar page for the month of September. Closeup, top view ...

stock

According to Good Housekeeping, the answer is a resounding yes. They’ve compiled a list of 21 reasons why September babies are extra special. I won’t spoil the whole list, but a few fun facts caught my eye—and I couldn’t resist sharing.

🍼 Fact #1: September Is the Most Common Birth Month in the U.S.

Let’s do the math. September is the ninth month. Human gestation takes about nine months. So what was happening in the U.S. right before January? Ah yes—holiday parties, mistletoe mischief, and New Year’s Eve revelry. It all adds up. Conception abounds!

1,300+ Baby New Year Stock Illustrations, Royalty-Free ...

 

 

🎂 Fact #2: September Babies Have a Better Shot at Reaching 100

The article doesn’t explain why, but statistically, more people born in September live to see triple digits. Maybe it’s all that autumn air and birthday cake?

Father Time And New Year’s Baby (Old And New Year)

🚌 Fact #3: You’re Likely the Oldest in Your Class

Thanks to the September 1 school enrollment cutoff, many September-born kids get an extra year before hopping on the big yellow bus. That means a head start in height, maturity, and maybe even snack negotiation skills.

School Bus - Customizable Clipart Image

🍁 Fact #4: September Folks Are Less Prone to Mood Disorders

Could it be the crisp fall weather, golden leaves, and pumpkin-scented everything? Whatever the reason, September babies tend to be a little sunnier in disposition.

😮‍💨 Fact #5: But… You’re More Prone to Respiratory Issues

September giveth and September taketh away. Asthma and other respiratory conditions are more common among those born this month. At least you’ll be cheerful while catching your breath?

☀️ Fact #6: Born on September 16? You Share a Birthday with Positive Thinking Day

Coincidence? Maybe. But if you’re a September 16 baby, you might just radiate optimism. Or at least have a good excuse to fake it.

🍕 Fact #7: My Personal Favorite—September 20 Is National Pepperoni Pizza Day

That’s right. You can celebrate your birthday with pizza and cake. Two major food groups, one glorious day. Yum!

 

77,000+ Pepperoni Pizza Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty ...

🎈 That’s a Wrap

If you want to see all 21 reasons, check out the full article in Good Housekeeping. As a February baby myself, I can’t vouch for the accuracy—but I might be just a teensy bit jealous.

So here’s to you, September stars. May your month be filled with joy, deep breaths, and extra slices of pepperoni pizza. Happy Birthday!

photo credit Deb Neumann

 

 

 

Happy Labor Day!

Posted on by

Honoring Hard Work: Celebrating Labor Day

Each year on the first Monday in September, Americans take a well-deserved pause to celebrate Labor Day. For many, it signals the unofficial end of summer, complete with barbecues, parades, and one last beach trip. But beyond the backyard gatherings and retail sales, Labor Day holds a deeper meaning—it’s a day to honor the contributions of workers who helped shape our country.

Barbecue Clipart transparent PNG - StickPNG

The History Behind Labor Day

Labor Day was first celebrated in the late 19th century, born out of the labor movement. During a time when long hours, unsafe conditions, and low wages were the norm, hardworking men and women stood together to demand fairness and dignity in the workplace. Their efforts led to reforms we often take for granted today—such as the 40-hour workweek, better wages, and safer environments. In 1894, Labor Day was officially recognized as a federal holiday, giving Americans a day to reflect on the value of hard work.

A Day to Reflect and Recharge

In today’s fast-paced world, Labor Day is not only about honoring workers of the past, but also about acknowledging the efforts of those who keep our communities running every day. Teachers, healthcare workers, farmers, service employees, and countless others deserve appreciation for the vital roles they play.

Philadelphia celebrates workers rights and unity - WHYY

Stock photo

It’s also a chance to recharge. Whether you spend the day with family at a cookout, take a quiet hike in the woods, or simply relax with a good book, Labor Day reminds us that rest is just as important as work.

Carrying the Spirit Forward

As we enjoy the holiday, let’s remember that Labor Day is more than just a long weekend. It’s a tribute to perseverance, unity, and the belief that every worker deserves respect. By recognizing the value of hard work—past and present—we carry the true spirit of Labor Day forward.

So, here’s to a day of gratitude, rest, and celebration. Happy Labor Day!

 

Let’s Celebrate (Almost) Anything Today

Posted on by
Celebrate Images – Browse 26,752,994 Stock Photos, Vectors ...

Internet Stock

Let’s Celebrate (Almost) Anything Today

Wow, Who knew August 15 had so many strange celebrations. Lets see if I can list them

  • National Shoe Donation Day
  • Assumption of Mary (Spain)
  • Hawaiian Shirt Day
  • India Independence Day
  • Kool Aid Day
  • National Men’s Grooming Day
  • National No Sponge Bob Day
  • National Relaxation Day
  • World Greatness Day
  • National Lemon Meringue Day

There’s more but you get the idea.  My favorite is Chant at the Moon Day.  

 

95,600+ Full Moon Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free ...

Full Moon- Stock photo

Chant at the Moon Day

The story goes that a cherry grower in Washington State thought harvesting his cherries around the full moon made them sweeter. In an inspired moment of promotional madness this grower decided that this sweetness deserved a celebration. So gather up your cherry loving friends and let out your best lunar cheer to cherry madness.

Superfood of the Month: Cherries | Lexington Medical Center ...

Stock Photo

 

Chant at the Moon Activities

1. Host a moonlit picnic
Gather your friends for a late-night feast under the stars. When you’ve had your fill, let the chanting commence! Just… maybe give your neighbors a heads-up first.

Picnic in the moonlight - Edible cake topper

Stock photo

2. Eat cherries under the moon
This day was born from cherries, so naturally, they should be part of the party. Munch on sweet cherries as the moon rises and toast to summer’s bounty.

Prunus cerasus / 'Morello' Cherry | BBC Gardeners World Magazine

stock photo

3. Learn a little lunar lore
How big is the moon, really? Take a few minutes to look up fascinating moon facts. Not only will you be amazed, but you’ll also impress your Chant-at-the-Moon crew.

166 Free CC0 Full moon Stock Photos - StockSnap.io

4 Facts About Cherries

  1. Every 100 feet in elevation delays harvest by a day.
    This is why “moon cherries” are harvested late in summer.

  2. They’re harvested at sunrise.
    Cherries are delicate, so growers pick them early to preserve their shine.

  3. 62% of U.S. sweet cherries come from Washington.
    Add California and Oregon, and you’ve got 94% of the nation’s sweet cherry supply.

  4. One cup = under 90 calories.
    Plus, that same cup packs 3 grams of fiber for digestion, heart health, and blood sugar control.

291,500+ Fresh Cherries Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty ...

stock photo

 

Why Chant at the Moon Day is my pick for the day

It gets us outside.
Summer evenings are magical. This holiday is the perfect excuse to connect with nature.

It lets us be silly.
How often do you let loose and howl at the moon? This is your moment. Make the silliest chant possible — and yes, video evidence is encouraged for future “blackmail.”

It celebrates the season’s sweetest fruit.
August is the last big hurrah for cherries, peaches, and nectarines. Chant at the Moon Day reminds us to savor summer’s best before it’s gone.

2,700+ Peaches Nectarines Cherries Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

stock photo

Sometimes the best holidays are the ones that make absolutely no sense — and that’s exactly why they’re so much fun. Tonight, I’ll be outside, cherry in hand, chanting away. Will you?