Fun February Facts

  Well here we are, February already! The days are getting longer allowing us that extra bit of time in our day. No matter where we were in the world, the seasons have always guided us. Although the celebrations have not always looked like they do now. Our traditions and calendar has evolved.

  February, along with January, were added to the calendar around 700 B.C. by Numa Pompilius. February’s name was derived from the Latin word februo, which means “purification rites.” Historically, February was placed at the end of the calendar year. The purification tradition continued with the Romans during their Lupercalia festival and renamed it “februarius”. 200 years later January and February were relocated to the beginning of the calendar year. In an attempt to align the calendar with the solar season, Julius Caesar creating the Julian calendar. He added days to February as well as a leap year day. Celebrations were very much connected to the seasons and solstice patterns. Some things have changed, and some remain the same.

  February can be cold and confining in Canada. Yet, there are many interesting and special days in February to brighten those cold Canadian days. Whether past or present, celebrations are more about our opportunities to create connections and give gratitude.

  My passions are built around that need for connection and gratitude. Connection to nature, connection to memories, connection with others. Truly, I am beyond blessed to be able to take all of my passions and combine them into my dream business. I’m all about the celebrations. So here are a few we look forward to.

  Many Canadians were delighted with the predictions of Groundhog Day.

• Shubenacadie Sam (NS) 
• Two Rivers Tunnel (NS) 
• Fred la Marmotte (QC) 
• Wiarton Willie (ON) 
• Oil Springs Ollie (ON) 
• Manitoba Merv (MB) 
• Balzac Billy (AB)

  Don’t forget our friends south of the border who anxiously await Punxsutawney Phil of Pennsylvania to emerged from his burrow. While it is just a fun and festive tradition, I’m going to hope that an early spring is in the forecast. I’m just itching to start planting and get into the garden.

  Then of course there is Valentine’s Day. While this day is traditionally meant to be a day for sweethearts, it has also become a day to acknowledge your love of all those important people in your life. The richness in life is within our connections with others. Now more than ever, those connections are so important. It’s amazing how a text, or a quick call can brighten someone’s day.

  Not into the mushy Valentine’s Day message? That’s ok. February 13th is Galentine’s Day. While this started as a fun day to celebrate female friendships, it has expanded to include all forms of friendship. Missed Galentine’s day? No worries, February 17 is also known as International Random Acts of Kindness Day. You can use this day to create or reconnect those connections. I have added many new cards to my collection to make that connection simple and meaningful. Choose that special image that you know will bring a smile to someone’s face. The world is truly a beautiful place full of incredible people. Hold a door, smile at the store clerk, make a donation to your favourite charity… the list goes on and on. Never underestimate your ability to create a positive impact even with a tiny act of kindness. Studies have proven that the gift of giving is actually more beneficial to the giver than the receiver. So helping others truly helps ourselves. It’s a win, win.