Mid-Winter Home Check-In

February is when winter wear-and-tear tends to show up. A quick mid-season check can help catch small issues early and make the rest of winter more comfortable.
What to look for this month:

  • Moisture on windows and walls. Check for condensation, frost, or damp spots around windows, exterior walls, and closets. Persistent moisture may signal ventilation or humidity issues.
  • Ice buildup outside. Look for ice near eaves, downspouts, vents, and along the foundation. Clear snow away from the house where possible to reduce melting and refreezing.
  • Furnace and air filters. If you haven’t already, replace or clean furnace filters. A clogged filter can reduce efficiency and affect indoor air quality.
  • Bathroom and kitchen ventilation. Run exhaust fans during showers and cooking. Make sure vents are clear and functioning properly.
  • Drafty doors and windows. Notice cold spots, sticking doors, or whistling air. Temporary fixes like weatherstripping or draft blockers can improve comfort right away.
  • Cracks or movement. Scan ceilings, walls, and tile grout for new cracks. Minor shifts are common in winter, but larger changes are worth noting.
  • Energy use patterns. February is a good time to review heating habits and thermostat settings and adjust where possible.
  • Start a spring list. Keep a running note of repairs or upgrades you’ll want to address once the weather warms up.

Who’s Spending What on Valentine’s Day

Have you ever wondered what Canadians’ Valentine’s Day spending habits look like? Recent surveys reveal a few interesting trends about how people are marking the occasion.

Most are spending moderately.
Over half of Canadians who plan to celebrate intend to spend more than $50 on gifts, dining, or experiences, with the most common range being $51-$100 (Retail Council of Canada, 2025).

Many are keeping budgets steady or slightly higher.
Around 85% of respondents say they’ll spend the same or more than last year, showing that Valentine’s Day remains a priority even with everyday costs rising (Retail Insider, 2025).

Younger Canadians plan bigger splurges.
About half of adults aged 18-34 intend to spend roughly $200, higher than the national average of around $160 (CIBC Poll, 2024).

Experiences are nearly as popular as gifts.
Dining out, at-home celebrations, and special shared moments rank highly alongside traditional presents (Leger Poll, 2024).

Love on the
Table-for
Everyone

On a holiday extremely dominated by chocolate, you might be scratching your head for what to treat your loved ones if they happen to have food allergies. Here are a few easy, safe, worry-free Valentine’s Day recipes that still feel special and celebratory.

Warm Berry Compote with Coconut Yogurt

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup coconut yogurt

Instructions:
In a small saucepan, heat the berries with maple syrup and vanilla over medium heat until slightly thickened. Serve warm over bowls of coconut yogurt.

Flourless Peanut-Free Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup seed butter (sunflower or pumpkin seed)
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • 3 eggs

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Mix all ingredients until smooth, pour into a greased 8-inch pan, and bake 20-25 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving.

Savoury Heart-Shaped Veggie Flatbreads

Ingredients:

  • 2 store-bought gluten-free flatbreads
  • olive oil
  • sliced cherry tomatoes
  • zucchini ribbons
  • fresh herbs
  • pinch of salt

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush flatbreads with olive oil, top with vegetables and herbs, and bake 10-12 minutes until edges are crisp. Use a cookie cutter to make heart shapes.

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February Sudoku

 


4 8  
    7
5   1
  1 3
     
    9
  2  
     
4    
9 7  
  5  
    8
    2
     
9    
8    
  4  
  1 2
    6
     
  2  
7    
     
8 9  
2   8
1    
  3 6

Click here to view the solution

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