Dear Members,

Here it is February—that un-beloved month in the heart of winter. The festive end-of-year holidays are over and spring is still weeks away. But in its short 28 days there are many occasions to celebrate, whatever your nationality.

If you are French, native or adopted, you eat crêpes on February 2^nd (La Chandeleur, though few are those who can recall what this feast day celebrates*), and also on Mardi Gras.

If you are American, you can commemorate the birthdays of two great Presidents, George Washington, the Founding Father, and Abraham Lincoln, the Savior of the Nation.

If you are English….well, there’s always a bank holiday!

And for all nationalities, St Valentine’s Day is the day to show your appreciation for your loved ones.

So February is like AWG—an intercultural mix to savor and share.

Best wishes,

Denise

* The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple.