Public Sleeping Day, Underlings Day, Chocolate Souffle Day, more

February 28th, 2013, is Public Sleeping Day, National Tooth Fairy Day, Floral Design Day, International Underlings Day, Repetitive Strain Injuries Awareness Day, Rare Disease Day, Gone-ta-Pott Day, Day of Andalucia, 228 Memorial Day (Taiwan), 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.

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! This holiday is observed on February 29th in leap years.

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 Rare Disease Day is observed on February 29th.

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

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.

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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Inconvenience Yourself Day, No Brainer Day, more

February 27th, 2013, is Inconvenience Yourself Day, No Brainer Day, International Polar Bear Day, Independence Day (Dominican Republic), National Strawberry Day, and National Kahlua Day. 

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." In other words: take time to hold a door for someone, yield to someone in traffic, consider the needs of others.

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.

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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For Pete's Sake Day, Spay Day, more

February 26th, 2013, is the For Pete's Sake Day, Tell a Fairy Tale Day, Spay Day, Liberation Day (Kuwait), and World Pistachio Day. 

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.

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.

Kuwait observes Liberation Day on February 26th.

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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Full moon names for February 25th and 26th, 2013

Full moon. Image: morgueFile.

The full moon for February 2013 takes place on February 25th or 26th, depending on your location. Following is a list of full moon names for February, ranging from common to surprising. Which names speak to you?

Makes Branches Fall in Pieces Moon - Abenaki
Full Hunger Moon - Algonquin
Full Snow Moon - Algonquin
Ice in River Is Gone - Algonquin
Trapper's Moon - Algonquin
Sucker Moon - Anishnaabe
Frost Sparkling in the Sun - Arapaho
Long Dry Moon - Assiniboine
Navam Poya - Buddhist
Moon of Ice - Celtic
Bony Moon - Cherokee
Budding Moon - Chinese
Little Famine Moon - Choctaw
Trapper's Moon - Colonial American
Sleet Moon - Comanche
Eagle Moon - Cree
Old Moon - Cree
Wind Moon - Creek
Moon of the Raccoon - Dakotah Sioux
Moon When Trees Pop - Dakotah Sioux
Snow Moon - Deborean
Storm Moon - English Medieval
Goose Moon - Haida
Magh Poornima - Hindu
Purnima Vrat - Hindu
Purification and Renewal - Hopi
Avunnivik - Inuit
Dark Moon - Janic
Hunger Moon - Janic
Storm Moon - Janic
Out of Food - Kalapuya
y'amuuni daawaatra - Keresan
Little Bud Moon - Kiowa
Index-Finger (counting on fingers, beginning with thumb in August) - Klamath
Rain and Dancing Moon - Klamath
Halanitca - Kumeyaay
Pattering Showers Moon - Maidu
Squint Rock Moon - Maidu
Trail Breaks Open Moon - Maidu
Lateness Moon - Mohawk
Nuts Moon - Natchez
Full Hunger Moon - Native American
Full Snow Moon - Native American
Squeeky Voice Moon - Navajo
Snow Moon - Neo Pagan
Moon When Geese Come Home - Omaha
When the Spruce Tips Fall - Passamaquoddy
Gray Moon (When Trees Are Bare and Vegetation Is Scarce) - Pima
Cold Winds Moon - Pomo
Month of Rabbit Conception - Potawatomi
Coyote Frighten Moon - San Juan
Crow Moon - Shawnee
Coyote Moon - Shoshoni
Dark Red Calves Moon - Sioux
Raccoon Moon - Sioux
Trees Pop Moon - Sioux
Winter Moon - Taos
Moon of the Cedar Dust Wind - Tewa Pueblo
Black Bear Moon - Tlingit
Big Winter Moon - Unknown
Candles Moon - Unknown
Chaste Moon - Unknown
Cleansing Moon - Unknown
Horning Moon - Unknown
Ice Moon - Unknown
Red and Cleansing Moon - Unknown
Wild Moon - Unknown
Quickening Moon - Wiccan
Fish-Running Moon - Winnebago
Shoulder to Shoulder around the Fire Moon - Wishram
Heka Meecha - Yaqui
Wind Moon - Yuchi
No Snow in Trails 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:

• Keith's Moon Page
• USNO Data Services
• Google Moon
• National Geographic - Moon Facts
• The full moon calendar 2013
• Calendars through the Ages - A month of moons

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Sword Swallowers Day, Cuddle Day, Clam Chowder Day, more

February 25th, 2013, is International Sword Swallowers Day, Pistol Patent Day, 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.

What is there to say about Cuddle Day? Share a cuddle with someone you love.

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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Saviours' Day, Dia de la Bandera, Tortilla Chip Day, more

February 24th, 2013, is Saviours' Day, Independence Day (Estonia), Dia de la Bandera, and National Tortilla Chip Day.

Saviours' Day is an event sponsored by the Nation of Islam. The theme this year is "Muhammad's Economic Blueprint: Ending Poverty and Want."

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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Open that Bottle Night, Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, more

February 23rd, 2013, is Open that Bottle Night, Tennis Day, Curling Is Cool Day, World Peace and Understanding Day, International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, and Banana Bread Day.

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.

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.

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!

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Single-Tasking Day, Walking the Dog Day, more

February 22nd, 2013, is Single-Tasking Day, World Thinking 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. 

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 two themes - yes, two - for 2013 are "Every mother's life and health is precious" and "Together we can save children's lives."

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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Card Reading Day, Mother Language Day, more

February 21st, 2013, is Card Reading Day, International Mother Language Day, In Memory of Father of Independence (Vanuatu), and National Sticky Bun Day. 

Today is Card Reading Day. Brew some tea and go through your stash of romantic and charming greeting cards, send ecards to your friends, or visit a tarot card reader for advice.

The United Nations supports International Mother Language Day on February 21st. Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, writes, "In this age of new technologies, books remain precious instruments, easy to handle, sturdy and practical for sharing knowledge, mutual understanding and opening the world to all. Books are the pillars of knowledge societies and essential for promoting freedom of expression and education for all."

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.

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Hoodie-Hoo Day, Day of Social Justice, more

February 20th, 2013, is Hoodie-Hoo Day, Clean Out Your Bookcases Day, Toothpick Day, Love Your Pet Day, World Day of Social Justice, and National Cherry Pie Day.

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.

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, "As we seek to build the world we want, let us intensify our efforts to achieve a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable development path built on dialogue, transparency and social justice."

Today is National Cherry Pie Day. It's your choice - bake or buy!

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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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Temporary Insanity Day, Cracker Jack Day, more

February 19th, 2013, is the Holiday Whiz Blogiversary, Temporary Insanity Day, Cracker Jack Day, and National Chocolate Mint Day.

Two years 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!

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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Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day, more

February 18th, 2013, is Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day, Thumb Appreciation Day, National Battery Day, 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.

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, Cabbage Day, more

February 17th, 2013, is My Way Day, Who Shall I Be 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.

On World Human 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, Almond Day, more

February 16th, 2013, is Do a Grouch a Favor 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!

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 roasted almonds - nothing better!

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Kissing Friday, John Frum Day, Susan B. Anthony Day, more

February 15th, 2013, is Kissing Friday, Nippy Hug Friday, John Frum Day, Lupercalia, Nirvana Day, Vasant Panchami, Thanks for a Great Valentine's Day, Susan B. Anthony Day, Remember the Maine Day, Funding Friday, National Flag of Canada Day, and Gumdrop 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.

John Frum Day is the most intriguing holiday ever encountered by The Holiday Whiz. John Frum isn't actually a person. John Frum seems to be a corruption of "John from America," and he is worshipped as a deity on the island of Tanna, Vanuatu, in the South Pacific. During World War II, American troops landed on the island with food and supplies, to the delight of the natives. Since the war ended, so-called cargo cults have prayed for the return of John Frum. On February 15th they dress as GIs, display the American flag, and build symbolic landing strips! I hope their prayers are answered.

  

Lupercalia is an ancient Roman festival, no longer celebrated. Men sacrificed goats, then ran about town with the goat skins. Young wives wanted to be touched by the skins, to promote fertility.

Buddhists celebrate Nirvana Day, remembering the death of Buddha and his transition into parinirvana, the ultimate nirvana.

Vasant Panchami celebrates the beginning of spring in India. Yellow is the color of the day.

If you're suffering from withdrawal after yesterday's overload of red and pink hearts, send ecards to celebrate Thanks for a Great Valentine's Day.

Susan B. Anthony Day honors an important activist. She fought for women's rights in the United States, especially the right to vote.

Remember the Maine Day is observed on February 15h, the anniversary of the 1898 event that started the Spanish-American War. The U.S.S. Maine, an American warship, was blown up in Havana, Cuba. After the explosion, 260 men were dead or missing.

Funding Friday is observed in the UK on Friday of Go Green Week. 

Those in the Great White North celebrate National Flag of Canada Day today.

After yesterday's overload of chocolate, flowers, and hearts, it's nice to enjoy the childlike simplicity of Gumdrop Day.

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Valentine's Day, Quirkyalone Day, Ferris Wheel Day, more

February 14th, 2013, is Valentine's Day, Heart to Heart Day, International Quirkyalone Day, National Call in Single Day, Gold Heart Day, National Have-a-Heart Day, Ferris Wheel Day, Switch Off Thursday, Think About Sex Day, National Condom Day, Library Lovers Day, Race Relations Day, Pet Theft Awareness Day, World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day, National Donor Day, and Cream-Filled Chocolates Day.

Chocolate hearts. Image: FreeDigitalPhotos, nokhoog_buchachon.

Valentine's Day is here again. Do something romantic for your lover, something sweet for your friend, something nurturing for yourself. The day is about love, not sadness; joy, not loneliness. Enjoy my "Top 10 Romantic Movie Quotes" to get in the mood.

Heart to Heart Day, an offshoot of Valentine's Day, is an opportunity to share your heart with another. In our world of electronic communications, send your heart to someone else via ecard.

International Quirkyalone Day is a sweet alternative to the commercialism of Valentine's Day. According to Quirkyalone.net, "IQD is a celebration of romance, freedom and individuality. It celebrates true romance (as opposed to the fake versions presented to us in reality dating shows), independence, creativity, friendship, and all kinds of love - including love for yourself."

National Call in Single Day is certainly a holiday in reaction to Valentine's Day. I don't endorse this one, because there's no shame in being single. Definitely it's better to be single than to be with the wrong person. Have yourself a wonderful day, no matter what your relationship status may be.

Gold Heart Day takes Valentine's Day to the realm of philanthropy. In the UK, people buy and wear Gold Hearts in support of the Variety Club Children's Charity.

On National Have-a-Heart Day, consider adopting a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Proponents say it promotes heart health.

How about a romantic rendezvous for two under the stars at fifty feet, on a ferris wheel with twinkling lights? Ferris Wheel Day honors George Ferris, inventor of the classic romantic carnival ride.

Thursday of Go Green Week is Switch Off Thursday. Participate by switching off lights when you leave a room, unplugging chargers when not in use, and turning off water when possible while brushing your teeth or washing dishes.

Our friends in the UK observe Think About Sex Day on Valentine's Day. If you forgot to bring flowers or a card for your partner, however, thinking about sex might be all you do.

National Condom Day fits in with the general holiday theme, in a way. Never allow yourself to be so swept away by emotion that you forget to protect yourself against disease or unwanted pregnancy.

Books (and the arts) need love too. Take time during the day to relax and celebrate Library Lovers Day.

February 14th is Race Relations Day. Make room in your heart for those who may be different from you on the outside, but who have a human heart just like yours on the inside.

LCA (Last Chance for Animals) promotes Pet Theft Awareness Day today. Think about ways to ensure the safety of your pets - chips, secure fences, better supervision - whatever is necessary. Pets are full-fledged members of the family.

Heart disease is a type of broken heart, which is why today is World Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day. How can you help? What steps can you take to become more heart-healthy?

Share your heart with others, figuratively speaking, by signing up to be an organ donor. Today is National Donor Day.

What's Valentine's Day without chocolate? Be your own Valentine and buy some chocolates for yourself! Have a glorious Cream-Filled Chocolates Day!

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Get a Different Name Day, I Value our Friendship Day, more

February 13th, 2013, is Madly in Love with Me Day, Get a Different Name Day, I Value our Friendship Day, Waste-Not Wednesday, Ash Wednesday, Employee Legal Awareness Day, and Tortellini Day.

Madly in Love with Me Day isn't about conceit or self-absorption. Christine Arylo of Expanding Possibility, LLC, writes, "While it is true that women and girls have more equality and self esteem than ever before, something isn't changing. We believe that something is self-love.... knowing that you can do anything doesn't stop women and girls from beating themselves up, putting themselves into abusive relationships or hating and destroying their bodies." Loving yourself means protecting yourself and taking care of yourself.

Are you less than thrilled with the name your parents gave you? If so, take advantage of Get a Different Name Day. For inspiration, check out my list of celebrity baby names!

I Value our Friendship Day is a nice time to meet an old friend for lunch, make a phone call to catch up, or at least send an e-greeting.

Wednesday of Go Green Week is Waste-Not Wednesday. Try your best to consume less, waste less, and recycle more.

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.

Employee Legal Awareness Day stresses the importance of educating employees about relevant legal issues.

Enjoy a stuffed ring-shaped pasta, reminisent of promise rings or wedding bands, while romance is in the air this week. Celebrate Tortellini Day!

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Mardi Gras, Extraterrestrial Culture Day, Darwin Day, more

February 12th, 2013, is Mardi Gras, Pancake Day, Shrove Tuesday, Extraterrestrial Culture Day, Love a Mensch Day, Travel Light Tuesday, Darwin Day, Oglethorpe Day, and National Plum Pudding 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!

Extraterrestrial Culture Day is observed on the second Tuesday in February.

Two days before Valentine's Day is Love a Mensch Day. If you're not sure what a mensch (or mentch) is, check this description!

Travel Light Tuesday takes place on Tuesday of Go Green Week. Consider ways to reduce your fuel consumption - carpooling, combining errands, catching a bus, riding a bike, or walking

Darwin Day, observed on the birth date of Charles Darwin, celebrates his theories and scientific exploration in general. Isn't the "mensch" the ultimate evolved man?

The U.S. state of Georgia celebrates Oglethorpe Day, honoring James Edward Oglethorpe, founder of Savannah and the colony's first governor. Oglethorpe and his British comrades landed in the area on this date in 1733. Georgia is named for King George II.

I learned a surprising fact from Punchbowl last year. Seems plum pudding contains no plums, as we know them in the U.S., but instead features raisins, apples, cinnamon, and dates. Who knew? Anyway, have a happy National Plum Pudding Day.

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Shrove Monday, Tibetan Buddhist New Year, Bolludagur, more

February 11th, 2013, is Shrovetide, Shrove Monday, Collop Monday, Tibetan Buddhist New Year, Clean Out Your Computer Day, Be Electrific Day, Inventors' Day, Satisfied Staying Single Day, Don't Cry over Spilt Milk Day, Meat-Free Monday, Make a Friend Day, White T-Shirt Day, Pro Sports Wives Day, World Day of the Sick, Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, National Shut-In Visitation Day, National Foundation Day (Japan), National Peppermint Patty Day, Bolludagur, and National Cream Puff Day.

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.

Today marks the beginning of the Tibetan Buddhist New Year, year 2140, the Year of the Water Snake.

The second Monday in February is Clean Out Your Computer Day. Take time to empty your recycle bin, clear out some files and folders you no longer use, and scan your devices for viruses.

Be Electrific Day, also known as Inventors' Day, commemorates the birth date of Thomas Edison. His light bulb invention is really starting to catch on.

Satisfied Staying Single Day is a day of pride for every happy single person, as well as every pretending-to-be-happy single. The day is most likely a reaction to the social pressures of Valentine's Day.

On Don't Cry over Spilt Milk Day, don't dwell on events you cannot change. Instead, use your energy to make positive change for the future.

Monday of Go Green Week is Meat-Free Monday.

Put out a little extra effort today. Say "hello," make light conversation, smile or nod at someone as you pass, perform a random act of kindness. Embrace the spirit of Make a Friend Day.

White T-Shirt Day commemorates a show of solidarity by the United Auto Workers in 1937. Participants wore white t-shirts in the spirit of unity. Celebrate by wearing a white t-shirt, buying an American-made car, or listening to some Plain White T's tunes.

Pro Sports Wives Day honors those who seem to lead cushy lives - the wives of professional athletes. They have money, of course. They're invited to fancy events. They have the opportunity to travel with their husbands or enjoy breathing space when their hubbies are out of town, whichever suits their style. Sometimes they even land roles on reality shows, if they're so inclined. The main downside might be the sports groupies.

On February 11th, the Catholic Church observes World Day of the Sick and Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.

National Shut-In Visitation Day is a great day to visit someone who lives alone or doesn't get out much. Spread a little cheer in a local nursing home or hospital. Everyone needs companionship!

The people of Japan celebrate the founding of their nation on National Foundation Day.

Celebrate either the chocolate and mint confection or the girl who likes Charlie Brown on National Peppermint Patty Day.

Iceland celebrates Bolludagur, or National Cream Puff Day, on Shrove Monday, 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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Chinese New Year, World Mariage Day, Umbrella Day, more

February 10th, 2013, is Chinese New Year, World Marriage Day, Umbrella Day, Plimsoll Day, and National Cream Cheese Brownie Day.

Welcome to the Year of the Dragon! Today brings the Chinese New Year, year 4710 in the Chinese Calendar. Festivities include fireworks, dragon dancing, and lion dancing (not line dancing). People clean their houses thoroughly, to drive away bad fortune.

Marriage. Image: FreeDigitalPhotos, nuttakit.

World Marriage Day is always celebrated on the second Sunday in February, right around Valentine's Day. Keep the romance in your marriage alive by doing something sweet and unexpected.

Umbrella Day could be the day to play Rihanna's song about her um-ber-ella-ella-ella or The Hollies' tune about sharing an umbrella. Just don't open an umbrella in the house, okay? That's unlucky.

Plimsoll Day honors Samuel Plimsoll, who introduced the Unseaworthy Ships Act in Britain in 1876. The Act was meant to solve the problem of overloaded ships, by requiring a line - the Plimsoll Line - to be painted on every ship's hull to show its waterline at maximum capacity. Unfortunately, the original Act was poorly written, requiring a line but not requiring the line to be accurately placed!

National Cream Cheese Brownie Day highlights a different sort of brownie. I'm not sure if it's meant to have extra zing or just be healthier than regular brownies made with butter. If you try some, please report back!

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Read in the Bathtub Day, Pizza Pie Day, more

February 9th, 2013, is Read in the Bathtub Day, Toothache Day, Pizza Pie Day, and National Bagels and Lox Day.

Today is Read in the Bathtub Day. I'll pass on this one, thanks. Don't want my Kindleto get all sudsy.

Speaking of brushing your teeth, today is Toothache Day. If you haven't seen a dentist in a while, screw up your courage and make an appointment.

Pizza Pie Day is a time to skip the typical pepperoni or sausage and try some creative toppings. How about Thai chicken, bacon and eggs, or fennel and chorizo?

Today is National Bagels and Lox Day. Enjoy this classic combination. Hey - I know - try it on a pizza!

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Laugh and Get Rich Day, Preseren Day, more

February 8th, 2013, is Laugh and Get Rich Day, Kite Flying Day, Preseren Day, and National Molasses Bar Day.

Laughter is essential to good health and a positive outlook, but apparently laughter is also a means of attaining wealth. Who knew? Celebrate Laugh and Get Rich Day, then feel free to send me a commission.

February is a funny time to celebrate Kite Flying Day, but I'm just a humble reporter of holidays. I don't set the schedule.

Preseren Day, the Slovenian cultural holiday, celebrates the talents of Slovenians in general and poet France Preseren in particular.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a sweet and sticky treat on National Molasses Bar Day.

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Wave All Your Fingers at Your Neighbors Day, more

February 7th, 2013, is Wave All Your Fingers at Your Neighbors Day, Send a Card to a Friend Day, Ballet Day, Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Independence Day (Grenada), and National Fettuccine Alfredo Day.

Wave All Your Fingers at Your Neighbors Day is a catchy way of promoting harmony among neighbors. Nice idea.

On Send a Card to a Friend Day, send a traditional paper-and-envelope card or an e-greeting. The sentiment is what's important!

Ballet Day celebrates all things ballet, from dancing to watching a performance to collecting figurines. If you're really brave, wear a tutu too.

Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is meant to reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS in the Black Community, via "education, testing, involvement, and treatment."

Grenada observes Independence Day on February 7th.

Celebrate National Fettuccine Alfredo Day with a big bowl of ribbony pasta coated with creamy, cheesy goodness. Deliziosissima!

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Lame Duck Day, Frozen Yogurt Day, more

February 6th, 2013, is Empire State Building Run Up, Lame Duck Day, Waitangi Day, International Day Against Female Genital Mutilation, and Frozen Yogurt Day.

Feeling energetic? Today brings the annual  Empire State Building Run Up! This vertical marathon is a fundraiser for the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

Lame Duck Day commemorates the Twentieth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. A lame duck president is one spending his final days in office, after someone else has been elected. Before the Twentieth Amendment was adopted, four months lapsed between the presidential election and the inauguration. Today a lame duck serves for only two months.

Waitangi Day is observed on February 6th in New Zealand, commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. Representatives of the British Crown and Maori chiefs signed the treaty, founding the country of New Zealand. Today the holiday prompts both celebration and controversy.

The United Nations supports International Day Against Female Genital Mutilation. This traditional practice in parts of Africa and the Middle East is meant to ensure chastity, but this practice also "severely violates the human rights of women and girls."

Frozen Yogurt Day celebrates an alternative to ice cream - not as sweet, perhaps, but healthier.

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Safer Internet Day, IHOP National Pancake Day, more

February 5th, 2013, is Safer Internet Day, IHOP National Pancake Day, Move Hollywood and Broadway to Lebanon PA Day, African-American Coaches Day, National Weatherman's Day, California Western Monarch Day, Kashmir Solidarity Day, Constitution Day (Mexico), World Nutella Day, and National Chocolate Fondue Day.

The theme of Safer Internet Day in 2013 is "online rights and responsibilities." Enjoy your favorite corners of the Internet, but proceed with courtesy and caution.

Hungry? Today is IHOP National Pancake Day! In exchange for a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes, diners are asked to make a donation to the Children's Miracle Network or other designated local charities. It's a win-win situation, unlike yesterday's Super Bowl.

One holiday that has yet to build much momentum is Move Hollywood and Broadway to Lebanon, PA Day. Lebanon is more famous for Amish farms, bologna, and candy than for celebrities, spotlights, or paparazzi. Be careful what you wish for!

African-American Coaches Day is observed on the first Tuesday in February. Coaches are valuable sources of inspiration in sports, business, and personal development.

National Weatherman's Day honors all weathermen and weatherwomen, including meteorologists. But most partcularly, the day honors John Jeffries, one of the first serious weather observers in the United States.

California Western Monarch Day is not a day to honor the King of California. Sorry, Your Majesty! It is a day to appreciate butterflies, especially monarchs, who are expert navigators.

Pakistan observes Kashmir Solidarity Day, showing support for Kasmir, occupied by India.

Mexico observes Constitution Day, commemorating the ratification of their constitution on this date in 1917.

World Nutella Day honors a hazelnut spread beloved by many around the world.

When the beer, popcorn, nachos, and wings run low at your Super Bowl gathering, break out the chocolate fondue! Today is National Chocolate Fondue Day.

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Meat-Free Monday, Create a Vacuum Day, LIberace Day, more

February 4th, 2013, is Meat-Free Monday, Hurling the Silver Ball, Create a Vacuum Day, Thank a Mailman Day, Liberace Day, Quacker Day, World Cancer Day, Independence Day (Sri Lanka), National Homemade Soup Day, and National Stuffed Mushroom Day.

The first day of Go Greeen Week in the UK is Meat-Free Monday. Some of us Super Bowl fans in the US could stand to go meatless for a day, following too many chicken wings, burgers, and nachos.

Hurling the Silver Ball is an annual event in Cornwall, England, always held on the Monday following February 3rd. Participants hurl a silver ball around town, and whoever hands the silver ball to the mayor at the stroke of midday wins a silver coin.

Create a Vacuum Day isn't the time to cobble together a device to suck dirt out of your carpet. Create a Vacuum Day is a celebration of science, and perhaps the as-of-yet unattainable perfect vacuum, a space devoid of particles.

Thank a Mailman Day is here. It's your second chance, if you failed to show appreciation during the holiday season, to thank the person who delivers your bills and junk mail. Sadly, the mailman may soon go the way of the buggy maker, as hand-delivered mail gives way to electronic communication.

Liberace Day celebrates the life and times of Liberace, a brilliant and flamboyant pianist who passed away on this date in 1987. He was the quintessential costumey showman, long before Elton John or Lady Gaga.

Quacker Day celebrates the Quacker Factory, a manufacturer of whimsical charms.

On World Cancer Day, each of us is encouraged to "Stand Up and Do Something." Start by doing something to brighten the day of someone facing cancer in your community.

Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, observes Independence Day on February 4th.

National Homemade Soup Day inspires thoughts of steaming pots loaded with veggies, noodles, and other good things. Homemade soup sparks childhood memories.

National Stuffed Mushroom Day begs the question - stuffed with what? Cheese and breadcrumbs make a nice stuffing, but a little bit of spicy sausage adds zing.

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