February begins with Groundhog Day and Candlemas. Both are on February 2. German immigrants brought the custom of watching to see if a groundhog saw his shadow as a way to predict the coming of spring. In Germany, it was a hedgehog. I only believe the groundhog if he doesn’t see his shadow! (Meaning spring is on its way!) Candlemas has a long history but just think of it as blessing the candles for the coming year. It’s from a time when candles provided light to homes and churches. The month continues with other days to remember, and the entire month is dedicated to learning about Black history.

As soon as the Christmas decorations are removed, the Valentine’s Day decorations go up in every store. As a child, the Valentine’s Day party at school was as special as the Halloween party. The history of the day is a mixture of the Roman holiday Lupercalia and Saint Valentine. Lupercalia was celebrated February 13 -15 when Roman priests dipped animal hides in goat blood and then hit women with the hides to make them more fertile. Sounds terrible. Saint Valentine is known to have married soldiers when it was forbidden. According to the Emperor Claudius, unmarried men made better soldiers, so he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine was arrested for marrying couples and put to death. Before his death he sent letters to his friends and signed them with, “Remember your Valentine.”

President’s Day is February 16 this year which is remembered by canceling school, mail delivery and other services. I have to ask, how are the presidents remembered on this day?

February 18 is Ash Wednesday which is the beginning of Lent. Many will eliminate favorite foods and bad habits. Spending time in prayer and reading the Bible are both encouraged, Lent is thought to be a dark time, but if one spends more time with God, they are in his light. Just a thought.

Wishing you all a warmer February and a few valentines to brighten your day!