February - Facts and Traditions

The primrose is the flower for the month of February.Look at the beautiful flower -->

According to the Georgian calendar, February is the second month of the year, and also the shortest month. February has 28 days until Julius Caesar gave it 29, and 30 days every four years. According to tradition, Augustus, the Roman emperor, took one day off to add one day to August, the month named after him. We now have February with 28 days, and 29 on leap years.

In the northern half of the world, February is a very cold month. There are usually sunny days that show Spring is not too far off. The Southern hemisphere usually enjoy midsummer weather during February.

The second day of February is often referred to as GROUND HOG's DAY. The old stories told are that the ground hog comes out of it's burrow on February 2, to look for it's shadow. If there is sunshine and he sees his shadow, then he goes back to sleep and there will be more winter time. If he doesn't, then the spring time will begin. This is a superstition.

VALENTINE'S DAY is celebrated on February 14 in most western countries. Children give valentines and have a party in school. Young and old exchange cards with loved ones. This custom is hundreds of years old, valetine greetings having been found that date back into the 1400's.
The third Monday in February is PRESIDENT'S DAY. Both Washington and Lincoln's birthdays were in February. It is considered a Federal holiday for celebration of Washington's birthday, but most states also honor all president's on this day.
The Roman Catholic Church celebrates February 2 as Candlemas Day. The candles used in the church during the rest of the year are blessed on February 2.