ONCE IN A BLUE MOON By Christopher Notes

If you ever wondered just how often "once in a blue moon" is, here's the answer: it happens about every thirty-two months.

A blue moon is the term for the second full moon in a given month. Since a full moon occurs every twenty-nine and a half days, a blue moon is possible in every month except February.

And, yes, when the weather conditions are just right, the moon really can look bluish.

Check an almanac or the weather page of your local newspaper to find out when the next one occurs. Then look up at the night sky. When you do look to the heavens there's a universe of wonder and beauty God has given us to appreciate.

Take a moment today to notice, to enjoy, and to say "thanks."

It is the moon that marks the changing seasons. ...From the moon comes the sign for festal days, a light that wanes when it completes its course. The new moon...renews itself; how marvelous is it in this change, a beacon to the hosts on high, shining in the vault of the heavens! (Sirach 43:6,7-8)