Full moon names for March 2012

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for March 2012 takes place on March 7th or 8th, depending on your location. Following is a list of full moon names for March, ranging from common to surprising. Which names speak to you?

Moose Hunter Moon - Abenaki
Spring Season Maker Moon - Abenaki
Catching Fish Moon - Algonquin
Crow Moon - Algonquin
Full Worm Moon - Algonquin
Sap Moon - Algonquin
Sugar Moon - Algonquin
Snow Crust Moon - Anishnaabe
Buffalo Dropping Their Calves - Arapaho
Sore Eye Moon - Assiniboine
Moon of Winds - Celtic
Strawberry Moon - Cherokee
Windy Moon - Cherokee
Sleepy Moon - Chinese
Big Famine Moon - Choctaw
Fish Moon - Colonial American
Lenten Moon - Colonial American
Cottonball Moon - Comanche
Hot and Cold Moon - Comanche
Eagle Moon - Cree
Goose Moon - Cree
Little Spring Moon - Creek
Moon When Eyes Are Sore from Bright Snow - Dakotah Sioux
Worm Moon - Deborean
Rain Moon - Diegueno
Chaste Moon - English Medieval
Noisy Goose Moon - Haida
Falgun Purnima - Hindu
Holi Festival - Hindu
Phalgun Purnima - Hindu
Purnima Vrat - Hindu
Whispering Wind Moon - Hopi
Amaolikkervik - Inuit
Plow Moon - Janic
Seed Moon - Janic
Spring Moon - Kalapuya
Women Dig Camas - Kalapuya
Shch'ami daawaatra - Keresan
Bud Moon - Kiowa
Middle-Finger (counting on fingers, beginning with thumb in August) - Klamath
Sucker Fishing Moon - Klamath
Halakwol - Kumeyaay
Flowers Moon - Maidu
Trail Sit Along Moon - Maidu
Chaste Moon - Medieval English
Much Lateness Moon - Mohawk
Little Spring Month - Muscokee
Deer Moon - Natchez
Full Crow Moon - Native American
Full Crust Moon - Native American
Full Sap Moon - Native American
Full Worm Moon - Native American
Small Plant Moon - Navajo
Death Moon - Neo Pagan
Little Frog Moon - Omaha
Spring Moon - Passamaquoddy
Green Moon - Pima
Growth Begins - Pomo
Water Stands in the Ponds Month - Ponca
Crane Moon - Potawatomi
Lizard Moon - San Juan
Sap Moon - Shawnee
Warming Moon - Shoshoni
Moon of the Snowblind - Sioux
Moon When Buffalo Cows Drop Their Calves - Sioux
Sore Eye Moon - Sioux
Wind Strong Moon - Taos
Moon When the Leaves Break Forth - Tewa Pueblo
Underwater Plants Sprout - Tlingit
Pahim Muattsi - Tumpisa
Moon of Winds - Unknown
Plow Moon - Unknown
Seed Moon - Unknown
Storm Moon - Wiccan
Long Days Moon - Wishram
Waehma Meecha - Yaqui
Little Summer Moon - Yuchi
Little Sand Storm Moon - Zuni

Sources for full moon names:

• Farmers' Almanac - Full Moon Names and Their Meanings
• Moon Names
• Indian Moons, Days & Other Calendar Stuff
• Hindu Blog - Purnima 2012 dates and time
• Spring Wolf's Pagan's Path - Full Moon Names
• About.com: Paganism/Wicca - Moon Phase Names in the Southern Hemisphere
• Willow Grove - Esbats & Full Moon Names
• Moon Names for a Full Year
• Wikipedia - Full Moon

More about the moon:

• Full moon calendar 2012 (for different time zones)
• Keith's Moon Page
• USNO Data Services
• Google Moon
• National Geographic - Moon Facts
• Calendars through the Ages - A month of moons

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Be Heard Day, Read Aloud Day, Purim, more

March 7th, 2012, is Discover What Your Name Means Day, National Be Heard Day, World Read Aloud Day, Purim, Ta'anit Esther, Holi, Dolyatra, Makha Bucha, National Cereal Day, and National Crown Roast of Pork Day.

National Be Heard Day celebrates the efforts of small businesses to outshine their larger competitors. Of course, the Internet levels that playing field a bit!
On World Read Aloud Day, read aloud to your kids. Better yet - if they're able, let your kids read aloud to you! Oh, and when they do, give them your undivided attention. No TV, no gadgets.

Purim begins on the evening of March 7th and continues through the evening of March 8th. Purim celebrates the survival of the Jews, despite Haman's plot to destroy them in a single day. Ta'anit Esther, the Fast of Esther, takes place in the hours leading up to Purim.

Holi and Dolyatra are festivals celebrated in India in conjunction with the March full moon.

Buddhists celebrate Makha Bucha during the March full moon.

Grab your bowl, your spoon, your milk, and your favorite cereal concoction in honor of National Cereal Day. Cereal is not only good for you (sans too much sugar, of course), but it's also convenient and easy to store. Add fresh fruit for even more health benefits and deliciousness.

If you're confident and ambitious in the kitchen, make the most of National Crown Roast of Pork Day. Oh, and please feel free to invite me over for dinner!

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Unique Names Day, Frozen Food Day, more

March 6th, 2012, is Unique Names Day, Dentists' Day, Town Meeting Day, Alamo Day, Independence Day (Ghana), White Chocolate Cheesecake Day, Oreo Cookies Day, and National Frozen Food Day.

Unique Names Day is celebrated on Tuesday of Celebrate Your Name Week. Is your name unique? Is uniqueness a good thing or a bad thing, in your opinion? Check out these unique celebrity baby names!

Most of us dislike going to the dentist. Some downright refuse. But your friendly dentist has tricks up his or her sleeve these days, to make the experience bearable. Everyone deserves a healthy smile. Make an appointment with your favorite dentist in honor of Dentists' Day.

Vermont observes Town Meeting Day on the first Tuesday in March. It's a time-honored tradition.

Texas observes Alamo Day on March 6th, the anniversary of the last day of the Battle of the Alamo.

Ghana celebrates Independence Day on March 6th, commemorating the date in 1957 when Ghana became the first black African country to gain independence.

White Chocolate Cheesecake Day honors a specific dessert concoction, albeit a delicious one. Don't try to sneak any dark chocolate in that cheesecake!

Oreo Cookies Day is extra-special this year, because Nabisco is celebrating the 100th birthday of the beloved sandwich cookie. In fact, for a limited time you can buy special edition Birthday Cake Oreos.

In these days when many of us are trying to be more frugal, an extra freezer is a great investment. Not only can you take advantage of sales by buying in bulk, but you can also join the ranks of those who cook in bulk. Embrace the possibilities on National Frozen Food Day.

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Fun Facts About Names Day, Say Hi to Mom Day, more

March 5th, 2012, is Fun Facts About Names Day, Say Hi to Mom Day, National Multiple Personality Day, Crispus Attucks Day, Casimir Pulaski Day, Custom Chief's Day, and National Cheese Doodle Day.

Monday of Celebrate Names Week is Fun Facts About Names Day. Learn about the history of your family name, or look up celebrities' real names, or discover how your hometown got its name. For fun, check out my list of unique celebrity baby names.

I can't find much documentation for this holiday, but since I'm a proud mom I'll mention that today is Say Hi to Mom Day.

National Multiple Personality Day is a day to either share jokes about multiple personalities, or, if you know someone who actually has multiple personality disorder, learn how you can help.

Crispus Attucks Day honors a man thought to be a runaway slave, the first to die in the Boston Massacre.

The U.S. state of Illinois celebrates Casimir Pulaski Day on the first Monday in March. Pulaski was a Polish-born soldier who fought for America's independence in 1779.

The island nation of Vanuatu celebrates Custom Chiefs Day, in appreciation of the many tribal chiefs who reject European influence in favor of preserving local customs.

Look for the tell-tale orange-stained fingers that reveal celebrants of National Cheese Doodle Day. Join them when you feel snacky.

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Do Something Day, Hug a GI Day, Toy Soldier Day, more

March 4th, 2012, is Do Something Day, Hug a GI Day, Toy Soldier Day, Dance the Waltz Day, National Grammar Day, Courageous Followers Day, Benjamin Harrison Day, Old Inauguration Day, International Scrapbooking Industry Day, Holy Experiment Day, and Pound Cake Day.

On Do Something Day, the world is your oyster. Seems the only option unavailable is doing nothing - and even breathing is something.

On Hug a GI Day, take a few precious moments to celebrate the courageous men and women who fight or have fought for your freedom. A hug is the least you could give.

Gather your little green guys and your weapons, then transport yourself back in time to your childhood, when war was a glamorous game. Take the same trip in your mind with a battle-themed video game. March 4th is Toy Soldier Day.

Yet another option for something to do is dancing. Today is Dance the Waltz Day! One - two - three. One - two - three. One - two - three. Beautiful.

Please be doing you're goodest to day to talk right, cuz its National Grammar Day, you know?

Usually the leader gets most of the credit, but where would that leader be without followers? Just some crazy person talking to himself. Today is Courageous Followers Day, celebrating the loyalty and perseverance of the all-important follower.

Benjamin Harrison Day honors the only United States president from Indiana.

Prior to 1937, United States presidents were inaugurated on March 4th, now remembered as Old Inauguration Day. In modern times, presidents are inaugurated on January 20th.

International Scrapbooking Industry Day is apparently a day for celebrating the business of scrapbooking, but that doesn't preclude anyone from enjoying the hobby today.

On Holy Experiment Day, take a leap of faith and pray for something that matters to you. You have nothing to lose, really, and you might just find faith or a miracle!

Don't take a mallet to your cake just because today is Pound Cake Day. A pound cake is so named because recipes call for a pound each of flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. So basic, so delicious, so ready to take on an accompaniment of sliced strawberries, kiwi, or pineapple. Yum.

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What if Cats and Dogs Had Opposable Thumbs Day, more

March 3rd, 2012, is What if Cats and Dogs Had Opposable Thumbs Day, Bonza Bottler Day, National Anthem Day, I Want You to Be Happy Day, Hina Matsuri, Peach Blossom Day, Liberation Day (Bulgaria), Egyptian Sportsman Day, and National Cold Cuts Day.

What if Cats and Dogs Had Opposable Thumbs Day is one of my favorite wacky holidays. What if they did? Would they help out around the house? Would they search online for jobs? Or would they still lounge around, waiting to be petted and fed?

Bonza Bottler Day takes place each month, when the month and day are represented by the same number. Today is 3/3 - voila!

Oh say, can you see, what holiday I'm about to mention? Sing out strong and proud on National Anthem Day.

I Want You to Be Happy Day is a nice idea, I guess, but as phrased it sounds rather bossy. Maybe I wanna be cranky!

Hina Matsuri , also known as Peach Blossom Day, is a time for Japanese families to honor their daughters. Dolls are arranged on pedestals, along with flowers.

Bulgarians celebrate their liberation since 1877 on Liberation Day.

Egyptians celebrate all things sports-related on Egyptian Sportsman Day.

Anyone feel like a sandwich? If so, stack it high with your favorite meats, in honor of National Cold Cuts Day.

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Old Stuff Day, Banana Cream Pie Day, more

March 2nd, 2012, is Old Stuff Day, Read Across America Day, Dr. Seuss Day, Cat in the Hat Day, Employee Appreciation Day, Texas Independence Day, World Day of Prayer, Adwa Day, and National Banana Cream Pie Day.

If you're tired of the same old stuff, today is your opportunity to change. Do some new stuff, donate your old stuff, avoid people who drag you down into their same old stuff. Embrace some new stuff in honor of Old Stuff Day.

Read Across America Day is observed every year on March 2nd, the birth date of the incredible Dr. Seuss, Theodor Geisel. Read with your kids today. Enjoy a book during your lunch hour. Download some new titles for your e-reader. Find ways to incorporate reading time into your busy schedule. This holiday is also known as  Dr. Seuss Day and Cat in the Hat Day.

The first Friday in March is Employee Appreciation Day. IF you're fortunate enough to be the boss, think back to your days as an employee. What gesture could your boss have made, to make your workday a little brighter? Nothing beats a raise, of course.

Texas Independence Day commemorates Texas' independence from Mexico, back in the 19th century. Some celebrate this holiday as Texas Flag Day or Sam Houston Day. Sam Houston was elected President of the Republic of Texas in 1836.

The first Friday in March is the World Day of Prayer.

Ethiopia observes Adwa Day on March 2nd.

How's your potassium level these days? Bananas are loaded with potassium, so use that fact as an excuse to enjoy a decadent dessert. Celebrate National Banana Cream Pie Day with zero guilt!

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March 2012 month-long celebrations

March brings yearnings for spring (in the Northern Hemisphere) and thoughts of trying something new. Check the following list of month-long celebrations for inspiration! Events are listed alphabetically, with descriptive words such as "National" and "World" omitted.

Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month
American Red Cross Month
Athletic Training Month

Baby Month
Caffeine Awareness Month
CDC Fruit of the Month - Exotic Winter Fruit (Tamarillo, Feijoa, Red Banana, Kiwano Melon, Guava)
CDC Vegetable of the Month - Leeks and Green Onions
Celery Month
Cheerleading Safety Month

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month
Clean Up your IRS Act Month
Collision Awareness Month
Color Therapy Month
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Craft Month
Deaf History Month - March 13th to April 15th
DVT Awareness Month
Dolphin Awareness Month
Endometriosis Awareness Month
Ethics Awareness Month
Eye Donor Month
Flour Month
Foot Health Month
Frozen Food Month
Furniture Refinishing Month
Great Lent (Orthodox) - February 27th to April 15th
Hamburger and Pickle Month
Honor Society Awareness Month
Humorists Are Artists Month
Improve Management Skills Month
Irish-American Heritage Month
Kidney Month
Kite Month - March 31st to May 6th

Lent - February 22nd to April 15th
Listening Awareness Month
Maple Sugar Month
Mental Retardation Awareness Month
Middle School Month
Mirth Month
MS Education and Awareness Month
Music in our Schools Month
Noodle Month
Nutrition Month
On-Hold Month
Optimism Month
Peanut Month
Play the Recorder Month
Poison Prevention Awareness Month
Red Cross Month
Sauce Month
Save your Vision Month
Sing with your Child Month
Small Press Month
Social Work Month
Spiritual Wellness Month
Supply Management Month
Trisomy Awareness Month
Umbrella Month
Women's History Month
Workplace Eye Wellness Month
Youth Art Month
Youth Science Month

If you know of other month-long celebrations that should be included in this list, please provide info in the Comments section below. Merry March!

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Pig Day, Plan a Solo Vacation Day, Baba Marta, more

March 1st, 2012, is Pig Day, Share a Smile Day, Plan a Solo Vacation Day, ReFired Not Retired Day, National Horse Protection Day, International Day of the Seal, Self-Injury Awareness Day, Baba Marta, St. David's Day, Day of the Balearic Islands, Independence Movement Day, National Heroes Day (Paraguay), Fruit Compote Day, and Peanut Butter Lovers Day.  

On Pig Day, either be kind to our snouted friends or have some bacon!

Share a Smile Day is self-explanatory. See how many people smile back.

Need to get away - from everything and everyone? You're in luck, because today is Plan a Solo Vacation Day. Even if you're in no position to travel right now, the very act of planning a solo adventure could be cathartic.

In the spirit of ReFired Not Retired Day, consider retirement as a new adventure, not as the end of the line. Find a new cause or project to ignite your passion. This is great advice, whether you're retired now, about to retire, or simply contemplating retirement sometime in the future.

National Horse Protection Day promotes the well-being of horses. The need is great. In our current economy, some horse owners are forced to give up their equine family members, but animal shelters aren't equipped for horses.

International Day of the Seal is a day to recognize the plight of the seal, dangerously close to extinction. Many zoos feature special presentations in support.

On National Self-Injury Awareness Day, learn more about this psychological disorder that affects more people than you might imagine.

On Baba Marta in Bulgaria, people decorate their clothes, their dogs, their cats, their livestock, and their houses with martenitsi. These items used to be amulets to ward off evil, but today they celebrate the coming of spring. Martenitsi are red and white woven threads, sometimes decorated with tassels, gold coins, blue beads, or colorful threads. Chestita Baba Marta - Happy Grandma Marta!

Wales honors its patron saint on St. David's Day. Some Welsh people wear leeks or daffodils, national emblems of Wales.

Day of the Balearic Islands is a public holiday on these Spanish islands. On this date in 1983 the Balearic Islands' Statute of Autonomy took effect.

South Korea observes Independence Movement Day, celebrating their revolt against Japanese rule.

Paraguay celebrates National Heroes Day, honoring Francisco Solano Lopez, the second president of Paraguay, as well as other national heroes.

Celebrate the coming of spring and fresh fruit on Fruit Compote Day.

Unless you're allergic, have some peanut butter today, in honor of Peanut Butter Lovers Day. Enjoy a classic PB&J or perhaps some chicken satay. Hey - that rhymes!

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Leap Year Day, Privilege of Ladies Day, Surf and Turf Day, more

February 29th, 2012, is Leap Year Day, The Privilege of Ladies Day, International Underlings Day, Galileo Day, Earth Moves Day, Rodaytion, Repetitive Strain Injuries Awareness Day, Rare Disease Day, and National Surf and Turf Day.

Leap Year Day occurs every four years, in general, on an extra day counted as February 29th. Leap years keep the Gregorian Calendar in sync with the solar year, which is about 365 1/4 days long. Leap years occur whenever the last two digits of the year are divisible by 4, unless the last two digits are 00. If the last two digits are 00, the year is not a leap year unless the full four-digit year is divisible by 400. Whew - got that? According to these rules, 2000 was a leap year, but 2100 will not be.

There's a Facebook campaign afoot, with the goal of making Leap Year Day a holiday.

According to folklore, women are "allowed" to propose to men on February 29th, The Privilege of Ladies Day. Guys, you've been warned!

International Underlings Day is a day to honor those who toil away every day, largely unrecognized. Today's the day to show them you care, with a lunch, a gift certificate, or a simple "thank you." Or go big and give them a raise! On non-leap years, feel free to do something special on February 28th or March 1st.

Galileo Day or Earth Moves Day or Rodaytion is only a proposed holiday, but I like the idea of celebrating the famous astronomer and the movements of the earth. The holiday's creator, "The Somnambulist," writes that the holiday should be: "A day of wonder about the beauty of the universe around us. A day of recognition of the benefits of science and of the scientific method. Finally, a day to honor the individuals who stand up for what they know is true."

The last day in February is Repetitive Strain Injuries Awareness Day. Hmmm..... maybe I should cut back a bit on my Holiday Whiz blogging or my "Angry Birds" playing.... Nah.

Certain diseases garner a great deal of attention - and funding to find a cure - but other rare diseases cause just as much misery and heartache. Consider supporting a lesser-known cause on Rare Disease Day. Usually this holiday is observed on February 28th, but in leap years (including 2012), Rare Disease Day is observed on February 29th.

National Surf and Turf Day comes around only once every four years, sad to say. Perhaps this is because steak and lobster are relatively expensive. In any event, happy day to you if you're lucky enough to indulge.

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Public Sleeping Day, Floral Design Day, Chli Day, more

February 28th, 2012, is Public Sleeping Day, National Tooth Fairy Day, Floral Design Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, Spay Day, Rare Disease Day,  Day of Andalucia, 228 Memorial Day (Taiwan), IHOP National Pancake Day, National Chili Day, and National Chocolate Souffle Day. 

You must be a trusting soul to participate in Public Sleeping Day. Try sleeping at your desk if you have an understanding boss or teacher. Otherwise, try a patch of grass in the park or a comfy chair at the mall. Be sure to cuddle your valuables. Sweet dreams!

National Tooth Fairy Day is observed on February 28th and August 22nd. Just think - she travels the globe every night, not just once a year like the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus. The Tooth Fairy works so hard, she deserves two days of honor each year.

Floral Design Day is a great time to showcase your design sensibility. Gather some of your favorite flowers, considering color and shape, and arrange them in a way that pleases you. If you love the result, no other opinion matters.

The 28th of each month is Gone-ta-Pott Day, as proclaimed by the people who run the Gone-ta-Pott holiday website.

World Spay Day, always the last Tuesday in February, is an annual campaign of HSUS and Humane Society International. Please spay or neuter your pets! Follow the campaign on Twitter at #SpayDay.

Certain diseases garner a great deal of attention - and funding to find a cure - but other rare diseases cause just as much misery and heartache. Consider supporting a lesser-known cause on Rare Disease Day. CORRECTION: In leap years (including 2012), Rare Disease Day is observed on February 29th.

Day of Andalucia is observed on this date each year, commemorating a 1980 referendum that established Andalucia as an independent community.

228 Memorial Day is observed in Taiwan, in remembrance of a violent incident in 1947. In the past, even speaking of the incident was taboo.

On IHOP National Pancake Day, enjoy a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes, but please leave a donation for the Children's Miracle Network and local charities. The fundraising goal for 2012 is $2.7 million.

In honor of National Chili Day, whip up a pot of your favorite chili. I plan to recreate my Mom's classic ground-beef-and-kidney-bean recipe, kicked up a bit to suit our new millennium tastes.

If you have the culinary chops to put together a souffle, more power to you! Show off your skill today, National Chocolate Souffle Day.

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No Brainer Day, Great Lent, Kahlua Day, more

February 27th, 2012, is No Brainer Day, International Polar Bear Day, Great Lent, Orthodox Lent, Green Monday, Clean Monday, Independence Day (Dominican Republic), National Strawberry Day, and National Kahlua Day. 

No Brainer Day is the perfect opportunity to coast through items that must be done, that don't require much brain-power. Crank up the tunes and gather your tax receipts. Turn on your favorite TV show and hem that pair of pants. Brew a cup of tea and make those phone calls. You get the idea.

Polar Bears International asks each of us to help reduce CO2 in the environment, to help preserve the habitat of the polar bear. For example, turn your thermostat down five degrees or add weather stripping to your doors. Do your part on International Polar Bear Day.

Great Lent, also known as Orthodox Lent, begins on February 27th in 2012 and continues until Orthodox Easter. For members of the Orthodox Church, this is a period for fasting and repentance. The first day of Great Lent  is called Green Monday or Clean Monday.

The Dominican Republic observes Independence Day on February 27th.

National Strawberry Day is a great time to enjoy some strawberry shortcake, a strawberry smoothie, chocolate-covered strawberries, or just plain old fresh strawberries. Delicious!

After a long day of performing no-brainer tasks, saving polar bears, and eating strawberries, it's time to relax. Luckily, today is National Kahlua Day. Straight up or combined with other ingredients, Kahlua goes down smooth.

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Academy Awards, Daytona 500, For Pete's Sake Day, more

February 26th, 2012, is the Academy Awards, Daytona 500, For Pete's Sake Day, Tell a Fairy Tale Day, Liberation Day (Kuwait), Cheesefare Sunday, and World Pistachio Day. 

The 84th Academy Awards honor the best in film. Many people host Oscar parties to share in the excitement. This year's nominees for Best Picture are: The Artist; The Descendants; Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close; The Help; Hugo; Midnight in Paris; Moneyball; The Tree of Life; and War Horse. Which films have you seen, and which one is your favorite?

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR's biggest race, with 43 drivers and 500 intense miles. Each lap is 2.5 miles. How many laps make 500 miles? You do the math!

For Pete's Sake Day is a celebration of a common phrase nobody understands. Who is Pete? Well, many etymologists believe Pete is a stand-in for God, to avoid blasphemous speech. In other words, say "for Pete's sake" rather than "for God's sake."

Tell a Fairy Tale Day could be a time to read aloud some Brothers Grimm or Hans Christian Anderson. On the other hand, it could be a time to discuss the current crop of political candidates and their campaign promises.

Kuwait observes Liberation Day on February 26th.

Cheesefare Sunday, also known as  Forgiveness Sunday, is observed by the Orthodox Church. It is the last day Orthodox Christians eat dairy until Easter.

World Pistachio Day honors a beloved nut that tastes quite different when made into my favorite ice cream flavor, pistachio. Remember when pistachios were usually dyed red, leaving evidence behind on your fingers when you ate them?

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Sword Swallowers Day, Open that Bottle Night, more

February 25th, 2012, is International Sword Swallowers Day, Pistol Patent Day, Open that Bottle Night, Cuddle Day, Opera Day, People Power Revolution, National Day (Kuwait), Let's All Eat Right Day, Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Day, and Clam Chowder Day.

International Sword Swallowers Day is celebrated each year at Ripley's, of "Believe It or Not" fame. Events are fun and educational, and the Sword Swallowers Association International raises funds to benefit injured sword swallowers. Ouch.

Pistol Patent Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1836 patent for the Colt Revolver. Samuel Colt obtained the patent, involving an adaptation of the revolving flintlock. Colt's mission was to make all parts on his guns interchangeable.

The last Saturday in February is Open that Bottle Night. Dust off that bottle of wine or champagne you've been saving for a special occasion, and share it with someone you love. Tomorrow offers no guarantees.

What is there to say about Cuddle Day? Share a cuddle with someone you love, perhaps while sharing the above-mentioned special bottle.

Opera Day celebrates the birth date of the great tenor, Enrico Caruso, who lived from 1873 to 1921. He was the first musician to have a best-selling recording history.

The Philippines observes People Power Revolution, remembering historic events that took place in 1986. The people revolted against then-President Ferdinand Marcos. Marcos' wife, Imelda, was infamous for her shoe collection.

Kuwait observes National Day on February 25th.

Let's All Eat Right Day honors Adelle Davis, the "first lady of nutrition," born on this date in 1904. What would she say if she could see the processed foods and fast-food restaurants of today?

Today is Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Day. Adelle Davis, mentioned above, would probably approve. Chocolate in moderation - especially dark chocolate - has health benefits.

Today is Clam Chowder Day. Presumably this includes both Manhattan and New England varieties. The famous novel might be I'll Take Manhattan, but, when it comes to clam chowder, I'll take New England.

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Kissing Friday, Nippy Hug Friday, Work Your Proper Hours Day, more

February 24th, 2012, is Kissing Friday, Nippy Hug Friday, Work Your Proper Hours Day, Independence Day (Estonia), Dia de la Bandera, and National Tortilla Chip Day.

Kissing Friday, also known as Nippy Hug Friday in Sileby, Leicestershire, was celebrated in the UK until the 1940s on the Friday following Ash Wednesday. On this day a schoolboy could demand a kiss from a schoolgirl. If she agreed, great, but if she refused, the boy was allowed to pinch her on the bottom! Imagine the lawsuits, if this sort of thing went on today.

On Work Your Proper Hours Day, try to work your regularly scheduled hours and no more. Don't stay late; don't skimp on your lunch break. (Of course, if this puts you behind schedule on a task, you might have to come in early on Monday.)

February 24th is Independence Day in Estonia, celebrating independence since 1918.

Dia de la Bandera is Flag Day in Mexico, not a day to honor actor Antonio Banderas.

Have some guacamole or salsa today, along with crispy triangles of corn goodness, to celebrate National Tortilla Chip Day.

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Curling Is Cool Day, Banana Bread Day, Chili Day, more

Febryary 23rd, 2012, is Tennis Day, Curling Is Cool Day, Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, World Peace and Understanding Day, International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, Banana Bread Day, and National Chili Day.

Tennis Day celebrates a game that was patented in 1874 by Major Walter Clopton Wingfield.

On Curling Is Cool Day, show some respect for a much-maligned sport. Curling is included in the Winter Olympics, after all.

Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day is designed to show girls that engineering is creative and collaborative. Engineers are changing the world!

World Peace and Understanding Day is a holiday created by Rotary International. According to the Rotary District 9200 website, "This day provides an opportunity for Rotary to reflect and build on its partnerships with various organisations and also inform the world on its diversity and internationality in addition to its activities."

On International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, buy some fancy dog biscuits for your canine companions. Or, if you're truly ambitious, bake your own. (Personally, I don't find the need to bake special treats for someone who's happy to eat from a garbage can, but to each his own.)

If you have no dogs to bake for, bake some banana bread for yourself and your family today. This is an especially great idea if you have some bananas on the verge of blackness. Soft bananas make the best banana bread ever. Have a wonderful and happy Banana Bread Day!

The last Thursday in February is National Chili Day. Now, this is a holiday I can fully embrace. So many options - beans or no beans? beef, chicken, or pork? spicy or mild? Whatever you choose, save a little for tomorrow, then mix it with sour cream for a fabulous dip. Ole!

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Ash Wednesday, Inconvenience Yourself Day, Margarita Day, more

February 22nd, 2012, is Ash Wednesday, Single-Tasking Day, World Thinking Day, Inconvenience Yourself Day, Be Humble Day, Walking the Dog Day, George Washington's Birthday, Independence Day (Saint Lucia), National Margarita Day, and National Cook a Sweet Potato Day. 

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent for many Christians. Some attend services and receive ashes on their foreheads, representing mortality, sorrow for sins, change, and forgiveness.

Stop everything and acknowledge the wisdom of Single-Tasking Day. Sometimes we get too distracted with working, having conversations, driving, tweeting, changing channels, web surfing, and so many other things at the same time. Bring some peace and quality control into your life by focusing on one thing at a time.

World Thinking Day celebrates Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across the globe. The theme for 2012 is, "We can save our planet."

The fourth Wednesday in February is Inconvenience Yourself Day. The website dedicated to this holiday features the following explanation: "Inconvenience Yourself is a way of living. It includes not only how you behave, but also recognizing and acknowledging the actions of others."

Be Humble Day is a day to be modest about your accomplishments. Shine the light on someone else, instead.

In honor of Walking the Dog Day, either walk your canine or learn the famous yo-yo trick:

George Washington's Birthday used to be celebrated on the actual date of his birth, February 22nd. Since 1971, however, the first president of the United States has been honored on Presidents' Day, the third Monday in February.

St. Lucia observes Independence Day on February 22nd.

On National Margarita Day, enjoy a delicous drink that comes in many flavors these days. Just don't forget the tequila. I'll have mine on the rocks, sans salt! Salud!

  

Today is National Cook a Sweet Potato Day. There's a world of possibilities out there, beyond bathing them in marshmallows or maple syrup.

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Mardi Gras, Pancake Day, Paczki Day, more

February 21st, 2012, is Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, Pancake Day, Shrove Tuesday, Card Reading Day, Palindrome Day, International Mother Language Day, In Memory of Father of Independence (Vanuatu), National Sticky Bun Day, and Paczki Day. 

Image: morgueFile, Patricia Fortes.

Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is always celebrated on the day before Lent begins. The Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold represent justice, faith, and power, respectively. Gather those beads!

The last day before Lent is also known as Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday. It's the day to use up all remaining fat, since Lent brings dietary restrictions. Grill those rich, tasty pancakes!

Today is Card Reading Day. Not as exciting, perhaps, as drinking beer, eating paczki, and collecting beads, but safer and more diet-friendly.

Palindrome Day is here again, because 21-02-2012 is the same forward or backward.

The United Nations supports International Mother Language Day on February 21st. Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, writes, "The language of our thoughts and our emotions is our most valuable asset. Multilingualism is our ally in ensuring quality education for all, in promoting inclusion and in combating discrimination."

Vanuatu observes In Memory of Father of Independence, honoring Father Walter Lini.

National Sticky Bun Day has nothing to do with sitting on honey-coated chairs (in case you wondered). Bake up a batch of caramelly, sticky, gooey buns and enjoy.

Paczki Day celebrates a Polish baked item, pronounced "ponch-key." The day has links with Mardi Gras. Celebrate fully, but come home safely.

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Presidents' Day, Hoodie-Hoo Day, Bolludagur, more

February 20th, 2012, is Presidents' Day, Hoodie-Hoo Day, Clean Out Your Bookcases Day, Toothpick Day, Daisy Gatson Bates Day, Love Your Pet Day, World Day of Social Justice, Shrovetide, Shrove Monday, Collop Monday, Maha Shivaratri, Canadian Heritage Day, Louis Riel Day, National Cherry Pie Day, Bolludagur, and National Cream Puff Day.

Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February, honoring George Washington. Some say the holiday honors Abraham Lincoln and the other U.S. presidents as well, but technically the day honors only Washington.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Hoodie-Hoo Day is celebrated on February 20th. At noon local time, step outside, wave your hands in the air, and shout, "Hoodie-Hoo!" This is meant to chase away winter and welcome spring.

Clean Out Your Bookcases Day is simpler these days for some people, given the popularity of e-readers. Do consider donating your unloved books to a local school, library, or charity. If you're all about the e-books, go ahead and donate the bookcase too.

Consider the humble toothpick, used for appetizer handles, sandwich stabilizers, and craft projects. Oh, and some people use them to clean their teeth. Today is Toothpick Day, commemorating the date in 1872 when the first toothpick-making machine was patented.

Arkansas, USA, observes Daisy Gatson Bates Day on the same day as Presidents' Day, honoring a civil rights activist.

Love Your Pet Day is a time to play an extra game with your cat or bring an extra treat for your dog. Don't forget the birds, fish, snakes, and so on. Just give your pets a little extra love.

The United Nations supports World Day of Social Justice on February 20th. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes, "Let us work together to balance the global economy and build a new social contract for the 21st century. Let us chart a development path that leads to greater social justice and the future we want."

Shrovetide includes the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Shrovetide is a time to cleanse the soul, and, perhaps your house as well, if you're into spring cleaning. The Monday of Shrovetide is known as Shrove Monday or Collop Monday. Collops - or chunks - of bacon are served with eggs, and the fat from the collops is saved for Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday.

HIndus observe Maha Shivaratri on the fourteenth night of the new moon during the dark half of Phalguna. Whew! In 2012, that's February 20th. On this day the lord of destruction performed the dance of primordial creation, preservation, and destruction.

The third Monday in February is Canadian Heritage Day.

Louis Riel Day is observed on the third Monday in February in Manitoba, Canada. Politician Louis Riel represented the Metis people and led a rebellion in 1885.

It may seem appropriate that National Cherry Pie Day falls on Presidents' Day this year, but the story of George Washington and the cherry tree is just that - a story.

Iceland celebrates Bolludagur, or National Cream Puff Day, during which they eat not only cream puffs but also other ball-shaped foods, such as meatballs or fish balls. Sounds like the makings of a great buffet.

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Pisces, Sign of the Fishes, February 19 to March 20

Pisces. Image: Salvatore Vuono, FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Everyone born between February 19th and March 20th is a Pisces, the sign of the Fishes.

For more information about Pisces:

• Homepagers Daily Horoscopes:Pisces
• What's-Your-Sign for Pisces
• Astrology.com: Pisces Sun Sign 
• Astrology Online: Pisces
• Farmers' Almanac Zodiac Signs, Astrology and Astronomy Explained

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Holiday Whiz Blogiversary, Quinquagesima Sunday, more

February 19th, 2012, is the Holiday Whiz Blogiversary, Temporary Insanity Day, Palindrome Day, Meatfare Sunday, Shrove Sunday, Quinquagesima Sunday, Shrove Sunday, Cracker Jack Day, and National Chocolate Mint Day.

One year ago today, I published my first blog post as The Holiday Whiz. Thanks for your support, loyal readers and friends. Hmmm.....any suggestions about how I should celebrate my Blogiversary?

The world is your oyster, so to speak, on Temporary Insanity Day. Do whatever you feel then plead temporary insanity. Smother that oyster with Temporary Insanity Sauce and have a crazy day!

Today marks the final Palindrome Day in our consecutive series, which ran from 2-10-12 through today, 2-19-12. Whew!

Meatfare Sunday marks the last Sunday when members of the Orthodox Church are allowed to eat meat, until the end of Great Lent.

Quinquagesima Sunday, also known as Shrove Sunday, is the fiftieth day before Easter. Take time today to learn the correct pronunciation of this holiday!

February 19th is Cracker Jack Day, the snack you're supposed to buy at the ball game, along with peanuts. One hundred years ago today, in fact, the first toy was placed in a Cracker Jack box! Now that's a moment in history.

National Chocolate Mint Day brings together two beloved flavors - chocolate and mint. Have them in a beverage, a candy, a cookie, or some crazy savory concoction you might dream up.

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Thumb Appreciaton Day, Egg Saturday, Drink Wine Day, more

February 18th, 2012, is Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day, Thumb Appreciation Day, National Battery Day, Palindrome Day, Shrove Saturday, Egg Saturday, Shopping Cart Saturday, Democracy Day (Nepal), Independence Day (Gambia), National Drink Wine Day, and National Crab-Stuffed Flounder Day.  

Now here's an unusual holiday - Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day! Apparently on this date in 1930 a cow name Elm Farm Ollie became the first cow to fly in an airplane. My own St. Louis, Missouri, played a role in this bit of history, too. Containers of milk were dropped from the plane by parachute over the city. Is this sort of like the Mile High Club for cows?

On Thumb Appreciation Day, forget about those index fingers and pinkies. All the love goes to the thumbs.

Where would we be without batteries to power everything from our gadgets to our cars? Get charged up about batteries on National Battery Day.

Palindrome Day happens every time the date looks the same forward or reversed. Today is such a day - 2-18-12.

The Saturday before Ash Wednesday and Lent is Shrove Saturday, also known as Egg Saturday.

The Saturday before Mardi Gras is Shopping Cart Saturday at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. That's one crazy parade.

Nepal observes Democracy Day, commemorating the anniversary of their constitution, adopted in 1952.

Gambia observes Independence Day on February 18th, celebrating independence from Britain since 1964.

National Drink Wine Day is self-explanatory. Cheers!

Today brings a foodie holiday that is so specific! If you love seafood, celebrate National Crab-Stuffed Flounder Day.

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My Way Day, Who Shall I Be Day, more

February 17th, 2012, is My Way Day, Who Shall I Be Day, NAACP Image Awards, Palindrome Day, World Human Spirit Day, World Cabbage Day, and National Cafe au Lait Day.

Today is My Way Day. Could be a day to pout until everyone caves to your demands. Could be a way to express yourself creatively. Could be a day to belt out that famous Sinatra tune:

Who Shall I Be Day kinda goes along with My Way Day, right? Seems February 17th is a day for self-absorption! Better yet, celebrate Who Shall I Be Day as a day for self-improvement.

The 43rd NAACP Image Awards takes place tonight. The show is "the nation's premier event celebrating the outstanding achievements and performances of people of color in the arts as well as those individuals or groups who promote social justice."

Yes, folks, I know it's getting tiresome. But for the record, I must report that today, 2-17-12, is Palindrome Day once again.

On World Spirit Day, people around the world come together for two minutes of silence, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Convert to your local time here. The event is meant to celebrate our connection with each other.

On World Cabbage Day, no one comes together for a moment of silence, as far as I know. Nevertheless, pay tribute to cabbage by having some slaw, egg rolls, or cabbage soup.

Relax and enjoy a holiday that's easy to embrace - National Cafe au Lait Day. That's coffee with milk, basically!

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Do a Grouch a Favor Day, more

February 16th, 2012, is Do a Grouch a Favor Day, Palindrome Day, Kyoto Protocol Day, and Almond Day.

Today is Do a Grouch a Favor Day. If everyone does a favor for just one grouch, maybe grouches will become an endangered species. Better yet, ask your favorite grouch to search Google for their special day, by searching "do a " and see what happens! (If that doesn't work, try Googling "do a barrel roll.") Freaky!

2-16-12 is yet another Palindrome Day.

Kyoto Protocol Day commemorates ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, an agreement between nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Almond Day celebrates a delicious nut, enjoyable straight or in desserts or candy. If you ever get the chance, try cocoa roast almonds - nothing better!

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