Welcome February 2024

Can you believe that it is now February! Whatever happened to the thirty one days of January? They certainly whizzed by!

February is the shortest month of the year, but for many people in the northern hemisphere, it remains one of the coldest. It’s that bridge between winter and spring!

Violet, one of February's birth flowers

Interestingly, February remains the second month of the year in both Gregorian and Julian calendars. It’s also the only month to have fewer than 30 days.

It’s also the only month to be affected by the ‘leap year’ – which takes effect when there are 29 days in February, and 366 days total in the year. Leap years help to synchronize calendars, and 2024 is a leap year!

February is a proper noun and its name in Latin means ‘purification’. Ancient Latin refers to the month as ‘Februum’.

The climate in February in the southern hemisphere is more or less the same as the climate you’ll experience in August in the northern hemisphere. It’s cold in the winter in the UK when it’s warm and sunny in Australia!

One of the main holidays celebrated in February is St Valentine’s Day, which takes place on the 14th.

Valentine’s Day has come to be a day when partners and married couples share gifts and cards with each other to show their love. You’ll often see plenty of red hearts and cuddly toys in February time.

There were two men called Valentine thought to have contributed to the name of the holiday. However, things didn’t end up well for them in either case! One ‘Valentine’ was put to death by the Roman Emperor Claudius after he failed to renounce his faith.

The second, however, was also executed by the same Emperor – and it was thought he had been helping soldiers to marry. This was against the rules of Christianity through which the Roman Empire followed to the letter.

February, just like all other months in the calendar, has its own flowers and they are violets and primroses.

Primrose, the second of February's birth flowers

February’s birthstone is the beautiful amethyst.

February zodiac signs are Aquarians or Pisceans, though you’re more likely to be an Aquarian due to the shortness of the month. Aquarius (January 20–February 19) and Pisces (February 20–March 20)
The above taken from article here

... and of course on February 14th Valentines Day

perhaps you may enjoy a

Raspberry Chocolate Soufflé

Sugar free : Low Carb

more details here

Dear reader, this blog is presented in a magazine style - we hope something for everyone. You will find a variety of articles, studies, thoughts, photographs, music and recipes! However, not all the recipes ideas featured in this blog may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan