February Birthday Facts and Trivia

As is the case with most holidays and observances in ancient times, seasonal or climate fluctuations were often a reason to celebrate and give thanks to the Gods. February 15th marked the festival "Februa" or "Febratio" on the old Roman calendar, which was believed to be a purification ritual, quite possibly in preparation for the vernal equinox when the promise of crops and warmer weather were nigh. Fill dinner party guests with these February fun facts as you celebrate the birthday guest of honor.

February Birthstone: Amethyst

• Amethyst (pictured) is the vibrant violet birthstone for the month of February. The consensus from jewelers and crystal healers is that this radiant purple stone brings on a sense of calm and serenity. The word "amethyst" is believed to be derivative from the Greek language meaning "a (not) and methustos (intoxicated)," therefore the stone has been embraced as a symbol for sobriety.   Whether the stone is presented in a ring, pendant, or as a glorious geode, this quartz crystal is as beautiful as it is meaningful.

February Zodiac Signs: Aquarius and Pisces

• The two Zodiac signs for the month of February are Aquarius (@January 20 to February 18) and Pisces (@February 18 to March 20). 
• Aquarius is symbolized by a water bearer and is the eleventh astrological sign in the Zodiac. Those born under this air sign are said to posses a sense of fairness, independent thought, and perhaps, a resistance to change.
• Pisces completes the Zodiac, which essentially means "circle of life," as the twelfth astrological sign even though the sign occurs within the beginning months of the year on the Gregorian calendar.  Two fish are the symbol for this water sign and those born under it are said to be sensitive, resourceful, empathetic, and adaptable.     
• With all the experiences life has to offer, one's personality can hardly be summed up with these breif descriptions. Consider the qualities attributed to these Zodiac signs as a fun musing or take it to heart if you so desire.

February Fun Facts:

• February is Black History Month in the U.S.A. and Canada serving as a remembrance of important people and events in African American history.
• February is also National Cherry and Chocolate Month (among countless others), which explains all those Valentine's Day gifts of chocolate-covered cherries.
• The first United States president and founding father George Washingon was born on February 22, 1732. George was as great at business as he was at leading the troops to victory during the American Revolution. Many know Mount Vernon as an historical tourist destination but in its hey day it was a working plantation with many crops including marijuana.
• Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809. Lincoln's most notable act as the United State's 16th president was freeing the slaves. Lincoln has no surviving heirs to date, although he fathered 3 sons all of whom passed away before the age of 20.  Many know that Lincoln was a tall man standing 6' 4", and he was also physically adept as both a wrestler and axe man. Lincoln appeared even taller because of his top hat where he supposedly stashed cash.
• February 2 is Groundhog Day. Since 1886, many people have gathered in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania and elsewhere to see a groundhog climb out of his hole and predict the season's forecast. If the groundhog sees its shadow, winter will be prolonged for 6 more weeks. If the groundhog does not see his shadow, winter will end soon.
• In February 1847, the United States Post Office introduced adhesive stamps, which simplified post office operations along with one's mailing process for Valentine's Day, February 14th.

Feel free to leave a February fact as a comment on this article!