February is known for its rugged weather—severe cold—heavy snow—blizzards and the old saying goes: As the days lengthen the cold strengthens, making it feel long, cold and boring. This view remains true when the winter never wants to end.
If you have the February blues or ‘blahhs’ it might be a good time to delve into it head first: go sledding, build a snowmen and snow-angels, and drink hot chocolate. Or take advantage of this indoor time to be creative.
Canadian winters were once a way to distinguish Canadians from Americans – evoking a sense of pride and superiority. Times have changed. Even the decline of the Canadian dollar has done little to dissuade Canucks from making the trip south. Canadians often choose February to spend as much time south of the 49 parallel as they can.
February has been noted for many things:
- It was named from the Latin word februum which means purification.
- It has been called the coldest month of the year.
- It is the only month with a leap year.
- It has 28 days.
But on the bright side one always can look forward to Groundhog Day, a popular tradition celebrated on February 2nd. Superstition says: if it is cloudy when a groundhog emerges from its burrow on this day. No sunshine means the spring season will arrive early, at least before the vernal equinox. If, on the contrary, it is sunny, the groundhog will see its shadow and retreat back into its den with winter weather persisting for six more weeks. Burrrrrr
“Linda has published fifteen books. She blogs about the publishing world, posts useful tips on the challenges a writer faces, including marketing and promoting your work, how to build your online platform, how to get reviews and how to self-publish.”