Welcome to February

Well, the groundhog has seen his shadow; the Super Bowl is in the books.  And we wake up on a blustery Monday morning and find…

February.

I’ll just be honest with ya, bud. It’s never been one of my favorites.

For a sports fan, there are just such limited options. When I was coaching baseball (or serving as a league official) things were different. February was a very full month. But, since I’ve hung up my cleats and clipboard and returned to ordinary time, I’m back with everyone else in just marking time.

Sportswise, it’s just a dud month. If your basketball team of choice doesn’t seem poised for a long run in March (mine do not) and you aren’t a big hockey fan (my interest waned after two recent work stoppages) and it isn’t an Olympic year (this isn’t), there just isn’t much out there.

It’s time to do some home improvement projects, get an early jump on filing your income tax return and, as my dad always says, “Think Spring!”

Of course, there is always the middle of the month, man-made holiday to boost the greeting card, florist and chocolate industries. 

And, naturally, us guys are encouraged to take part or suffer the consequences. 

Around our house, we also get to celebrate a birthday, but since Lisa embodies the definition of low key, there won’t be any sort of extravaganza.

Like the month itself, the observance will be measured and brief.

Thinking of the truncated month, I went in search to find out why February is so short compared to its 11 counterparts on the calendar. According to a number of sources I found, the 28 day configuration dates to Roman times. If you’re interested in the details, I encourage you to follow the links I’ve included. Or if not, you can just accept it as a given.

For leap year babies, I’ve often wondered: in off-years, do you observe your birthday on the 28th (last day of the month) or on March 1 (day after February). If you are one of those folks, private message me or drop me a note. I’d love to know how it works out for you.

Otherwise, I guess there is one consolation for all of us seeking a return to warm weather and springtime fun: Since February is such a short month, we’re that much closer to turning the calendar to March!

JG

Originally posted 2/2/2015