When Is The Next Leap Year?

When is the next leap year? It's upon us. 2012 is a leap year. It's easy to lose track since it only comes around every four years or so. Most years that are divisible by 4 turn out to be leap years, although there are some exceptions. For example, 2012 is a leap year; 2008 was one also. Apparently, years that are divisible by 100 are not considered a leap year, such as 2100, 2200, etc.

When we have this "extra day" year, that means we have 366 days instead of the standard 365. In the Gregorian calendar, the extra day is added on February 29th, which makes sense, seeing as though it is such a short month anyway.

The long-standing advantage of a leap year (besides having an extra day) is the idea that women can propose to men. So, if you have been in a relationship for a while now, and have not been asked the big question yet, this is your chance to turn the tables and ask him.

I have often wondered what people do who are born on a "leap day." Do they get older slower than the rest of us? Or do they celebrate their birthday a day sooner or later than the real one? Or maybe they get to pick out a day to celebrate their birthday on each year.

When is the next leap year after 2012? It will be 2016, right on schedule with the years divisible by 4 rule.

Do you celebrate this special day, and if so, how? After all, it's like being given an extra 24 hours, so how do you spend it? Is it like every other day or do you do something special? Here are some ideas.

• Have a special party and serve dishes you wouldn't ordinarily serve.
• Go to Disneyworld. They are keeping two of their theme parks open for a straight 24 hours for added time of fun. Take advantage of it if you can!
• Do something you wouldn't usually do, like go play a game of tennis in the middle of winter.
• Do an especially "good deed."
• If you own your own business, have a special "extra day" sale.
• Send (or hand deliver) a gift to someone special in honor of the day

Whatever way you decide to spend it, don't let it just pass by without recognizing it. It's an extra day we're given, so spend it with care!

Looking for leap year gift? Visit gift baskets for women and take a look at the beautiful selection of gift baskets!