Villager Ventures: Family Time in February

By: Hillary Handy

We are in full swing, 2025. The new year is upon us and we have many exciting dreams and schemes for this coming year. While I am all for the fun, I find that February is one of my least favourite months, though. It is a strange in-between time as I usually feel like I have had enough of winter and am ready for spring, but with the Canadian chaotic climate, it could still be two months (or more) away! I tend to find myself in a funk, lingering in the limbo. As such, I am trying to reframe February and look forward to the two major holidays this month boasts of. Here are some things you and your family can do in our region to make the most of February, being more intentional with your family time.

Valentine’s Day

Romance aside, this is a time to show someone you care. It can be more than just commercialism and consumerism. It is a time to teach your children and grandchildren about the different ways we can show love and why it is important to show people you care.

 handmade Valentine’s Day Cards
  • Make handmade Valentine’s Day Cards: Stop the consumerism in its tracks. Make your own construction paper notes as a way to express you care. These words of affirmation will speak volumes to those that speak that love language.The various libraries in our community often hosts Valentine’s Day themed activities or workshops. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for those events.
  • Create a family meal together and pretend you have your own restaurant: Little ones love to help, so work together on a project with the same goal in mind. They will feel proud of their contribution and you are teaching them a valuable skill in the process. To spice up your life, try shopping at a different grocery store than you usually do. The Namaste Indian Supermarket & Restaurant Orillia is a really cool spot!
  • Do a puzzle together: Busy hands can make for busy chatter. While engaged in the process of puzzling, you can have some really good and meaningful conversations with your family.

Family Day

Bonding with the family when it's snowing hard

A whole day dedicated to families! Let’s make the most of this, regardless of the weather!

  • Check Community Calendars: See if there are free skates, public swims, or library programs happening in your region. These outings are often great for all ages and stages.
  • Make a pillow fort: Channel your inner Bluey and make your own “Cubby” out of pillows, blankets, couch cushions, you name it. Also, if you don’t understand this reference, be sure to check it out on YouTube or Disney+.
  • Have a movie marathon:  Pick a theme and roll with it. While watching television for 6 hours is not usually recommended, it IS a fun memory to make with your family. I know in the last issue I said to reduce screen time this new year…but it is fun to binge on some of the classics like Starwars, Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings or for the younger ones in the audience, those Disney sequels that did not quite hit the mark like Cinderella, Little Mermaid and the Rescuers. 

For either holiday or any day in between

Be sure to capitalize on the beauty of our region this time of year. Take advantage of the nature that surrounds us.

  • Go Ice Skating Outdoors: Check rink conditions prior, but there is something special about playing pick-up hockey and figure skating on the Lake. There are also several outdoor rinks maintained by the various townships. 
  • Enjoy a trail walk or hike: Scout Valley, George Langman Sanctuary, the Provincial Parks…so many options. Where is your favourite place to explore?
  • Make a snowman or snow fort: The snow is here…let’s make the most of it. Building is bonding. Creating is good for the body and the soul. What can you make outdoors?

May this February bring about intentionality with your little ones and loved ones. Let us know what you get up to this month. This Villager will be back in March with more happenings, so stay tuned!