In
times when courtship traditions were stricter, it was the responsibility of the
man to ask his sweetheart for her hand in marriage. Unless the date was February 29…
That single day that only comes around every
four years was set aside for women to take the initiative and propose
marriage. And, men were subject to a
fine if they refused the proposal.
Some 1912 postcards depict this day in a comical fashion. Men went into hiding on February 29 and those women wishing to propose had to hunt for their man.
The legend goes
back to 5th century Ireland. St. Bridget interceded for women who were
losing patience waiting for their suitor to propose. St. Bridget made a deal with St. Patrick that
gave women the privilege of proposing marriage only on February 29. The thinking was that since Leap Day existed
to fix a flaw in the calendar, the day could also be used to fix an unjust
courtship ritual.
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| Antique Postcard from my Personal Collection Copyright 1912 by E. Nash, L.Y.-2 |
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| Antique Postcard from my Personal Collection Copyright in 1912 by E. Nash, L.Y.-2 |
Ladies, if you
are waiting for the perfect opportunity to obtain a commitment from your man, you may want to follow a long-standing tradition and consider invoking your privilege on February 29.
Until next time, live and love well.
Until next time, live and love well.
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This forum reveals random thoughts and reflections on topics of interest and events impacting the life of the founder of Doll in the Looking Glass. Our boutique specializes in custom designed dolls that look like your child. We also design toddler and baby dolls that look real using vinyl doll components manufactured in Midland, Michigan USA by Apple Valley Doll Works. The goal of Doll in the Looking Glass is to delight our customers with our creations. We would love to create a special doll for you!
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