2012 is a leap year, or a year with an extra day in February, making the month 29 days long instead of 28 days. The system may seem strange—every 4th year starting with year 0 is a leap year; except every 100th year, when it is not observed; except every 400th year, when it is observed—but there’s sense behind it. An extra day might not seem to make much of a difference, but in the long run, adding February 29th helps keep the calendar year synchronized with the astronomical and seasonal calendar. Because seasons and astronomical events don’t repeat in a whole number of days, a calendar with the same number of days each year would eventually drift, causing us to experience seasons in odd months as the summer solstice occurred earlier and earlier. A leap day every 4 years keeps the seasons in check. Of course, a leap year isn’t just a scientific occasion. The addition of a day is peculiar enough that some cultures have developed folk traditions. On the British isles, for instance, it is a tradition that women may propose marriage only on a leap day. Some European countries, such as Denmark and Finland, have traditions that say if a man refuses a woman’s proposal on a leap day, he must buy her gloves or fabric for a skirt. Additionally, a person born on February 29th may be called a “leapling” or a “leaper.” Whatever its history or its scientific significance, a leap year gives us an extra day in 2012 to cherish and enjoy all life has to offer. Take advantage of the extra day by indulging in a treat or gathering your friends and family. Remember, this special day only comes around every four years!

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