National Banana Day 2022!

by Danna Bananas Apr 06, 2022 0 comments

April 21st is National Banana Day

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How to Make All-Natural Easter Egg Dyes

by Danna Bananas Mar 31, 2022 0 comments

Dye your Easter Eggs using food scraps.

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Fun Things To Do With Kids During Earth Hour

by Danna Bananas Mar 23, 2022 0 comments

Fun Things To Do With Kids During Earth Hour

Offer up some fun activities to try during your hour in the dark.

As you unplug for Earth Hour, take the opportunity to talk to your kids about the global significance of Earth Hour. Offer up some fun activities to try during your one hour in the dark.

Everyone can make a difference so get your kids involved! No lights? They'll think that's really cool!

Here are 10 ideas to get you started...

1. Tell or read stories. Grab a flashlight and some blankets and tell stories in the living room. Fact or fiction, these stories in snuggly surroundings are sure to be fun for the kids.

2. Play board games by candlelight. Be careful with the candles!

3. Play a fun round of flashlight tag or hide and go seek in the dark.

4. Take a walk. Enjoy the night sounds and scenes of your neighborhood by taking an evening stroll with your kids and the dog.

6. Have a night-time picnic. Prepare your food in advance and spread a blanket in the living room.

7. Star gaze. It's the perfect evening to grab a telescope or some binoculars and head out to see the stars.

8. If weather permits, camp out in your backyard and roast marshmallows on the BBQ and make s’mores! If not, set up camp site in your living room. Pitch a tent and get the sleeping bags.

9. Go to your neighbourhood playground or park for some night time play.

10. Tell spooky stories in the dark.

Find out more about the Earth Hour initiative at www.earthhour.org.

via toronto4kids

A few Sustainable Gifts from Danna Bananas:

Reusable Beeswax Wraps

I'm Saving the Planet What Are You Doing Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Paper or Plastic Neither Shopper

I'm Saving the Planet - What Are You Doing Shopper

Fun Breakfast & Brunch Ideas To Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

by Danna Bananas Mar 15, 2022 0 comments

Celebrate the luck o' the Irish this St. Patrick's Day with these easy and yummy breakfast and brunch ideas. From eggs, quiche, waffles, cinnamon rolls to green smoothies, and more, your family will love these recipes to start this special day!

Shamrock Cinnamon Rolls

When you’re using canned cinnamon rolls you can whip these cuties up in less than 10 minutes. Get the recipe from The Celebration Shoppe.

Fun Breakfast & Brunch Ideas To Celebrate St. Patrick's Day

Easy Shamrock Biscuits

All you need to get started is a can of refrigerated biscuits, sprinkles or sanding sugar, and a pair of kitchen scissors! Get the recipe from Giggle Living.

Bell Pepper and Potato Frittata

You can literally throw anything into a frittata and call it a meal, but adding a few 'shamrock' peppers makes this a fun St. Patrick's Day themed breakfast recipe. Get the recipe from Skinny Taste.

Healthy St. Patrick’s Day Pancakes

These easy-to-make, healthy St. Patrick’s Day pancakes come together with just 5 ingredients, plus they are gluten-free and grain-free. The green colour comes from spinach. Very healthy! Get the recipe from Kara Stout.

Top o’ the Mornin Lucky Charms® Pancakes

Perfect for St. Patrick's day, wake your little leprechauns up with these Top o' the Mornin' Lucky Charms Pancakes that are ready in 20 minutes. Get the recipe from Betty Crocker.

Shamrock Eggs

This St Patrick's Day Breakfast is perfect for kids young and old who want to start their day with a touch of green and gold! Get the recipe from Moscato Mom.

Lucky Spinach Quiche

An easy brunch recipe and you don't need a clover shaped pan to make it. Get the recipe from Diamonds for Dessert.

Shamrock St. Patrick's Day Waffles

Most of us will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at home. You can make the best of the situation and make these Shamrock St. Patrick’s Day Waffles right at home with your loved ones! Get the recipe from Inspired Chick.

Shamrock Avocado On Toast

This is the perfect brunch idea for St. Patrick's day. Your family will love it. Get the recipe from Exceedingly Vegan.

St. Patrick's Day Mint Shakes

Milk shakes, like other simple concoctions, are only as good as their ingredients, so use high-quality ice cream and vanilla extract. Get the recipe from Food Network.

via toronto4kids

Here is why March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb (usually)

by Danna Bananas Mar 01, 2022 0 comments

Hello March!

Here is why March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb (usually)

(CNN)If March's weather is anything like what roared through Texas and the rest of the central and southern US in February... we're in deep trouble. Often, March's weather can be this ferocious.

Have you ever heard of the saying, "March comes in like a Lion and goes out like a Lamb"?

While the saying most likely started as a reference to astronomy, referencing the position of the constellations Leo (a lion) and Aries (a ram, or lamb) in the night sky -- it quickly evolved into a succinct summation of March's changing weather as the seasons change from winter to spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

This well-known proverb means that March is a month in which you can experience a Lion's fierce roar of frigid cold, the long white teeth of biting winds that can cut through flesh; and the gentle softness, the warmth of fluffy white fleece, and the innocent kiss of sunshine like a docile newborn lamb.

It turns out proverbs like this one hold a lot of weight, and are many times accurate. Here is why.

The proverb has stood the test of time

Like many proverbs for the month of March, it can be traced back to Thomas Fuller's 1732 compendium, "Gnomologia; Adagies and Proverbs; Wise Sentences and Witty Sayings, Ancient and Modern, Foreign and British."

Fuller compiled numerous proverbs and studied weather lore across many countries through the late 1600s and early 1700s.

Weather folklore contained in books like Fuller's were often ways to help people prepare for typical weather conditions that lay ahead, often times in reference to planting and harvesting of crops, and can often be accurate, thanks to prevailing winds and weather patterns.

Typically across the US, the month of March is still in the grip of harsh winter realms, providing more of the same brutal cold, wind and snow, especially in the first days of the month. But as the transitional month moves along, it often leads to glimpses of spring's beauty and warmth.

In the beginning, it might not have had anything to do with weather

This proverb may have evolved into the weather saying we have today by first relating to the heavenly stars above. It is believed that this saying has more to do with the month beginning with the constellation Leo. Leo (the lion) rises in the east to start March and ends the month with the constellation Aries (the ram, or lamb) setting in the west.

It is believed that this saying was adapted to include the weather, with its wild swings we generally expect for this transitional month.

It didn't take long for early American colonists to realize that the New World's weather pattern was much like their native lands across England and surrounding countries, where extreme weather shifts could profoundly affect their livelihoods from one week to the next.

The Northern Hemisphere shares the same jet stream, providing similar swings in weather, in America as they do across Europe.

A similar pattern of mainly westerly influence with cold, harsh north winds bringing heavy snow and bitterly cold temperatures are common in winter, while warm winds from the south can bring tranquil warmth more frequently as the month progresses.

Different variations developed for different locations

Some may be familiar with a reverse version of the proverb: "March comes in like a lamb and goes out like a lion."

This "reverse" of the proverb is hard to trace in its origin, but definitely makes sense if you consider those who traveled westward with the American expansion to Western states.

These western states can have incredible temperature swings this month as the polar jet stream moves from it's preferred position near Canada over the winter to a more southerly route during the spring. This tends to cause many states in the Western US to experience some of their heavier snowfalls from the end of March and into April -- thus the lion (and the harsh weather it represents) coming at the end of the month.

In Scotland they say, "March comes in with adders' heads and goes out with peacocks' tails." An Adder is Scotland's sole venomous snake. A timid creature and unlikely to bite unless threatened. Again, showing a feared image of winter, with the beauty and splendor the weather at the end of March can bring.

In the Netherlands, they say; "Maart roert zijn staart," which means "March stirs its tail" -- evidence of the variety and extremes that can come day to day this time of year. All the same for the roller coaster of wacky weather we call March.

The history of weather lore

Weather proverbs have been passed down from generation to generation. A simple saying, a rhyme, a limerick, etc., help us forecast the weather for the coming days or season.

Many are Old English in origin that have found their way to America and the early colonists searching for a new world.

Weather proverbs also originate from days gone by from almost every country in the world. But, only those with similar weather patterns usually hold true where you live.

Weather lore itself can be traced to Greek philosophers' works; those who studied the stars and astrology; those who studied the seas for navigation and the winds to farm.

Many are geared toward certain months of the year, and some for "days of the year" as in those for patron saints, thanks to the Middle Ages. Whether it was the farmer in a field, the sailor on a ship or the poet in the woods ... these proverbs continue to ring true.

As the month of March continues, will the 'Luck of the Irish' be with us? We'll have to wait and see.

via Tom Sater, CNN Meteorologist

Pink Shirt Day

by Danna Bananas Feb 23, 2022 0 comments

PinkShirtDay is today. Stand and take a visible stance against bullying. Wear a pink shirt and remind everyone to LiftEachOtherUp!

Pink Shirt Day started in 2007 in Nova Scotia when youth distributed 50 pink shirts in their school in support of a peer who was bullied for wearing a pink shirt.

It is now a national movement that is recognized on the last Wednesday of February with a mission to “create a more kind, inclusive world by raising awareness, and funds for anti-bullying initiatives.”

Today, it is estimated that 1 in 5 youth experience some form of bullying, although more so in schools, workplaces, homes, and online.

Let's raise awareness, practice kindness, and stand against bullying. Lift each other up, and work towards ending bullying today and everyday.

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Curling is Cool Day 2022

by Danna Bananas Feb 23, 2022 0 comments

Do we really need a day to remind us Curling is Cool? No, we don't especially if you are Canadian. Curling was introduced in Scotland in the 1500s. The sport begins by releasing a rock on the ice while fellow team mates sweep frantically to try and hit a target. In honor of this day, Danna Bananas has compiled some cool Curling Gifts.

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Singles Awareness Day

by Danna Bananas Feb 15, 2022 0 comments

Singles Awareness Day is today, February 15. If you’re single and totally detest Valentine’s Day, this is an ideal holiday for you.

"Originally, Valentine’s Day became a SAD (Singles Awareness Day) day for people without significant others, so they decided to revolt and take that acronym back. They chose empowerment and self-love instead of indulging in a self-loathing soiree." --- National Today.

“True love finally happens when you’re by yourself.” --- Lizzo!

If you are single, celebrate and create your own love!

Know someone who is perpetually single? Why not give them the gift of someone to love without the stress of having a man in their life? This is the ideal gift for them!

The best thing about this dude is that you get some of the perks of having a man in your life, without the worry about cooking or cleaning up after them.

Mould Your Own Boyfriend

Risqué Valentines Gifts to Fall in Love with

by Danna Bananas Feb 07, 2022 0 comments

Often on Valentine's Day, we take the most travelled route when we gift. Maybe it’s time to spice the freeway of love fest up and take a left turn this year. Make the Naughty List by gifting your sweetheart with one of these risque Valentine’s Day Gifts.

3 Things Naughty or Nice

Kama Sutra Cards

Mini Naked Ramblers

MICRO PENIS COFFEE MUG

Muff Mug

Fuckboy Stress Toy

100 Ways To Eat Cock Recipe Cards

Candy Bra

2022 kids’ birthday trend predictions

by Danna Bananas Jan 31, 2022 0 comments

2022 kids’ birthday trend predictions

Our series of 2022 party predictions continues with one of the most important parties around—a birthday party. Specifically, a birthday party for kids! Who better to give us the scoop on all things trendy for kids’ birthday parties than Trish Healy, CEO & Founder of WonderTent Parties, Seri Kertzner, Chief Party Officer at Little Miss Party Planner, and Cassandra Katz, Founder of Cassandra Bette Events! Here are the trends they’re predicting for 2022.

What are some birthday party trends you think will be big for 2022?

Trish: I think we will see a return to big, fun experiences for kids (and adults) in 2022. The past few years have seen people really value the idea of having an experience at a party. Outdoor events aren’t going anywhere, especially for larger groups.

Seri: Electronics. Whether it’s a video game-themed birthday party or a scooter skate park party, kids are drawn to motorized items.

Cassandra: I think 2022 kids’ party trends will continue to cater to precautionary safety and financial measures. Safety trends include party-themed face masks (for both guests and staff), individually packaged COVID-friendly meals, individually contained crafts and socially distanced seating options (such as picnic blanket seating.) Financially conscious trends include using digital invitations since postponements are happening left and right. You can design your own or use a template, and it is very easy to communicate any changes or updates with guests via email. I think the trend of drive-by parties is a thing of the past…gathering with friends is so important for the soul as long as it can be done safely.

Other trends I think we will continue to see are the use of adult-like themed petite furniture, balloon garland-dressed bounce houses and dessert displays with individually wrapped treats.

Are there new themes you see/hear people referencing for kids’ birthday parties?

Trish: For younger children (from 1–10) we’re seeing a lot of love for jungle/safari themes. Dinosaurs are still really big, and so is all the fun of having an enchanted garden party with a magical fairy theme. Festivals are always a popular go-to as well, and we’ve also got a feeling Baby Yoda will be sticking around for quite a while too. We also see butterflies and rainbow themes at the forefront of designs and color palettes.

There’s definitely a move toward a little more sophistication for tweens and teens, and blush and boho themes remain supremely popular. TikTok-themed activities were also big this year, and we see that continuing, along with travel-inspired party themes like Paris. We also see a stronger push into dining and live music/DJs for older teens.

Photo-centerpieces will also continue to be big in 2022, which means more arches, more balloon walls and more inspiring Insta-worthy photo ops.

Seri: I think we’ll see a lot of sports themes as kids were watching more sports than ever while in quarantine. We are currently working on a basketball-theme party combined with Marvel—super cute!

Other new themes that we have heard about are neon, Space Jam, putt-putt, science and jungle.

Cassandra: We have had some requests for TikTok-themed parties and Pop It!-themed parties (which we did last summer). Our goal is to take a simple theme and make it unique for the client. For example, a Frozen party doesn’t have to be all glitter with explosions of Elsa and Anna. It can be chic by pulling decor elements like light blue and white gingham and marrying sophisticated decor elements with fun kid elements.

Do unicorn and dinosaur parties still reign?

Trish: Unicorns continue to be popular, and we see this being complemented with the emerging rainbow and pastels trends. Mermaid parties are on the rise, and Barbie is having a bit of a resurgence. Whimsy and wonder will continue to reign with enchanted garden parties and Alice in Wonderland-inspired tea parties.

Seri: YES. Classics like dinos and unicorns will stick around forever! I think rainbows will forever be a theme as they are happy and joyful, as well as candy since it’s fun and colorful.

Cassandra: Yes. My first kids’ party of 2022 is a dinosaur theme. We are going to have all the kids dress up in dinosaur costumes that they can take home after. We are also going to have a massive dino-egg hunt. Last year we did a cute girly dinosaur party and the theme was Three-Rex.

Are there trendy party favors? Go-to kid-friendly foods?

Trish: With the push toward more “experience” parties on the rise, we see party favors and activities combining, like fun activities the kids can create and customize at the party and then take home with them.

It’s also all about custom apparel for older kids, from party-themed tees and hoodies to pajamas and sleepwear—squad gear for the win.

As far as food goes, we see individual grazing and candy boxes being popular. Cotton candy will make a big, deliciously sticky comeback in 2022, and for older kids, we see boba and ice cream bars as the go-to treats.

Seri: I asked my 9-year-old son what he thinks will be trendy party favors this year, and he says FIDGET TOYS! These seem to be a huge trend for kids these days.

Cassandra: The biggest trend we have seen is the break-it chocolates/mallets filled with candy. Also, gumball machines and custom candy boxes are big since there is no more loose candy handed out due to Covid.

via https://www.evite.com/

Hockey, curling, poutine, ketchup chips...how about Party-themed face masks?

Canadian Snack Pack Face Masks