Shortest month full of holidays & observances
The month of January has come and gone. The year has begun, and we are now on our way to entering the month of February. I just put up my Christmas decorations and got caught up on some much needed rest from the holidays. But before I knew it, February was knocking on my door. It may be the shortest month but it is full of holidays and events to celebrate.
I've always wondered why February only had 28 days and the other months had 30 or 31. As I began to research, I discovered that a Roman King was a little superstitious when the decision was made. According to Britannica, Roman King Numa Pompilius had to sync the calendar with the lunar year fully. However, he wanted to avoid having even numbers in his calendar because it was Roman superstition at the time that even numbers were unlucky. So, the Roman King chose February, which would host Roman rituals honoring the dead, as the unlucky month to consist of 28. We learn something new every day!
Nowadays February represents the month of love. In high school, my friends and I would always be excited about getting something from our special someone. Some received flowers or candy and others received a beautiful necklace, bracelet, or ring. I always hoped to receive beautiful red roses, a card, and some candy.
It was always interesting to see what my Dad would do for my Mom. He always waited until the last minute to surprise her with his gift. I remember one year he bought the most oversized Russell Stovers heart-shaped candy box I had ever seen. It was huge. Mother always liked getting the candy but the beautiful red roses he picked out always made her smile. But as kids, we were always excited to see Dad buy some candy, and that year, we were glad he got the big box.
Mark your calendars for one of America's most famous days in February. It is Ground Hog Day, which is Thursday, February 2. The day involves a groundhog predicting the end of winter by seeing his own shadow. I am always hoping he emerges from his burrow and does NOT see his shadow so we can have an early spring.
Schools and government offices will be closed on February 20 for President's day. It will be an excellent three-day weekend for some to enjoy.
When I looked up what holidays and observances will be held in February, I found that every day is some kind of National holiday. February 1 is National Girls and Women's Sports day, and February 9 is National Pizza Day. I hope that everyone takes time to celebrate February 17, the Random Acts of Kindness Day. It is a day that inspires people to do an act of kindness. Not only does that day bring joy to the receiver, but it can also spread positive reactions to the giver.