For such a short month, February’s calendar plays host to some interesting events. I just recently learned that February 14th is not only the well-known Valentine’s Day, but also National Organ Donor day. I guess the people in charge of these days figured that while people are busy giving their hearts away, they should make plans for their other organs as well. Another interesting combination in February this year is the 17th, which is now both President’s Day, as well as National Random Acts of Kindness Day. My best guess is that the intent is to practice a kindness towards yourself and others and not think or speak about anything having to do with your opinions about the President for an entire day.
But probably most interesting this year is the inclusion of an extra day due to the leap year. I can see why it would be added onto February since it’s such a short month, but really, if you’re going to add a day on to a month, why not sometime nicer like June or July, when we could all go outside and enjoy it? I’ve read that in some cultures, February 29th was considered the only day it was appropriate for a woman to propose marriage to a man, and that men were either not allowed to refuse, or had to pay a hefty price for refusal. And of course birthdays are complicated. There is a family in Norway with three children born on the leap day of consecutive leap years, and I’m certain that they’ve grown very tired of hearing that they are all much younger than they look.
The February calendar at Homewoods is also full of interesting events. For example, we have our Mardi Gras dinner, then the next day we observe Ashen Wednesday and the commencement of Lent with a solemn trip to the Old Spaghetti Factory. Nothing says penance like pasta! We’ll also be holding our church service and Super Bowl viewing party back-to-back for those of you who have placed bets and require extra prayer on the outcome of the game. For a shorter than normal month, we’ve done our best to pack it with as many opportunities for fun, activity, education, health, and community as possible, and I’m sure there will be something for everyone.