The first Monday in September is dedicated in honor of those who labor in respect and appreciation for the work they do in or outside of the home, big companies, small companies, cities or rural areas, or anywhere else. It all started on September 5, 1882, by a group in New York City, and it quickly became a popular date across the U.S., being made a national holiday on June 28, 1894.

So, if you’ve ever worked or if you plan to do so in the future, this day is for you! So, while you’re doing whatever, you plan on doing – here are some ideas.

If you’re a beach bunny…

And the sun is shining and you’re either travelling to the beach or lucky enough to have one nearby – you’ll want a tall, cool, thirst quenching and refreshing glass of iced tea. And oh, by the way, don’t forget your sunscreen!

You deserve a break today…

Labor Day’s entire purpose is to celebrate your hard work, so why not take a well-deserved break?  If rest and relaxation is your goal – for instance, like just kicking back and lounging around, perhaps watching tv, like a beached whale on your sofa in your pj’s – then you’ll want your favorite cup of tea to go along with that box of Thin Mints, that’s been in your freezer, for just this occasion.

If you’re shopping…

The Labor Day sales, you’ll need something bracing to help you face the onslaught of all crazed shoppers.  For instance, maybe you’re headed to Old Navy, where tees will be as low as $6.00 and jeans from $15 AND I discovered you can pick up an extra 30% off all clearance shorts with using the promo code SHORTY.  So, in my opinion you will need something strong and robust to fend off the crowds, so brew a cup of Lapsang Souchong. Lapsang Souchong, is referred to as smoked tea, and is one of the world’s oldest and most distinctive black teas. In your cup you’ll have a rich tea with a unique, smoky taste. Just the thing to fortify you as you wait, and wait, and wait in the check out line. And remember… that patience is the virtue of kings as my mother used to say.

And oh, by the way, it was Winston Churchill’s favorite tea.

So whatever you do, have that last splurge before going back to work on Tuesday. As for me, I plan on sitting on my back deck, with book in hand, enjoying a cup of Korakundah and of course eating the remainder of my LAST box of Thin Mints and keep in mind despite what the serving size says on the box, a serving size of Thin Mints is really an entire sleeve!