Take the Leap!

Take the Leap!

Hannah Cameron

Happy Leap Day!

29th February is called Leap Day, an additional day in the calendar that occurs once every 4 years.
 
Have you ever wondered about some of the traditions and beliefs around Leap Day and Leap Year?
 
Have a read and tell me, did anything surprise you?

Sending a confidence boost to you if you're popping the question today, and a big congratulations to you if you're now engaged!

What if my pal's birthday is on leap day?

Folks born on leap day are called “leaplings”, and will typically celebrate their birthday on either 28th February or 1st March (after all, who wants to celebrate just once every four years?!) It is the rarest birthday date.
 
If you or your pal is born on 29th February, let me know how or when you celebrate!

What if I propose to my boyfriend on a leap day?

Historically, leap days gave women the opportunity to propose, a tradition dating back to 5th century Ireland.
 
Proposals by women are on the rise in general (yes!), you could even pop the question with a fancy watch instead of a ring.
 
I'm all for either partner proposing to each other at any point in the year - though I love traditions too! Do whatever feels right for you :)

What if my boyfriend says no to my proposal?

If your boyfriend refuses your proposal, traditionally he would now buy you a silk gown, a fur coat, or 12 pairs of gloves.
 
So if he says no… well at least you have an abundance of new gloves!

What if I get married on a leap day or leap year?

Marrying on 29th February? In Greek and Italian culture, it is widely believed to lead to bad luck.
 
Marrying during a leap year? In a number of countries, this is considered an unlucky time to tie the knot…though in Chinese culture, it's considered a lucky and fortunate time to wed!
 
If you're marrying the love of your life, then I think that no matter the day or year, it's pretty lucky! So take traditions and beliefs with a pinch of salt :)
 
What do you think?

Pals just got engaged today?

Congratulations to your pals!
 
You know where to find a jazzy engagement card as bold as they are! ;)

Is tomorrow the 30th February or 1st March?

Did you know?
  • For 1712 only, Sweden added an extra day to their leap year on 30th February, resulting in a unique 30-day February, and a 367-day year!
  • Sweden's conversion to the Gregorian calendar was finally accomplished in 1753. There was an 11-day correction, so 17th February was followed by 1st March!
 
I don't know about you, but I could do with adding in a few days here or there to the year, extra time is always appreciated...maybe while we're at it, we can add a few more hours into each day?
Hope you've enjoyed being a calendar and traditions nerd with me today for something a bit different!
I'll be a bit more present over on the Looksee Instagram and Facebook throughout March, where I'm taking part in the March Meet the Maker challenge - see you over there!
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