By Merle Lee Ann Pratt – Merle Lee Ann’s Kitchen, author of “A Baker’s Dozen”

Seniors Scene

February – A Month of Renewal, Love and Growth

Feb 19, 2025 | 9:57 AM

“The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Pattison Media and this site.”

As we step into February, the shortest month of the year, it’s easy to overlook its potential for profound change and inspiration. Often associated with cold weather and the lingering winter blues, February can feel like a bridge between the fresh start of January and the promise of spring. I find myself feeling like I have SAD (seasonal affective disorder). I bought myself a sun lamp and use it most days to help with the lack of sunshine and shorter days, but this month is so much more than that—it’s a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Here are a few uplifting reminders to carry you through February and beyond:

Celebrate Love in All Its Forms

February is famously the month of Valentine’s Day, but love isn’t limited to romantic relationships. Take this time to celebrate all forms of love—friendship, family, self-love, and even love for the world around you. Reach out to someone you care about, write a heartfelt note, or simply take a moment to appreciate the people who bring joy to your life. Say hello to people you don’t know or even a smile. You never know what another person is feeling and sometimes the smallest gesture may lift someone’s spirit. Love is a powerful force and sharing it can light up even the darkest winter days.

Travel

Canada updates U.S., China travel advisories after recent frictions

3h ago

Politics

'No Canadian dream': Meet some who want to join a 51st U.S. state

4h ago

Anniversary Celebration

PBCN Petro Canada: Celebrating 20 years of success and growth

Mar 21, 2025

2. Embrace the Power of Small Steps

If your New Year’s resolutions have already started to fade, don’t worry—February is the perfect time to reset. Progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. Celebrate the small wins, whether it’s drinking more water, taking a walk, or simply showing up for yourself each day. Remember, growth is a journey, not a destination. And for those of you said you were going to walk more outside – that has been a challenge with these last couple weeks of very cold weather and wind chills. My dogs are having to go out more often on their own as I haven’t been taking them. Too chilly out!

3. Find Beauty in the Present Moment

Winter can feel long, but there’s a quiet beauty in this season. The crisp air, the stillness of a snowy morning, or the warmth of a cozy blanket—these are moments to savor. The bright sunshine and the sparkling hoar frost on the trees makes for a magical, icy wonderland. Practice mindfulness by noticing the little things that bring you joy. Gratitude for the present can transform even the most ordinary day into something extraordinary.

4. Plant Seeds for the Future

February may feel like a time of waiting, but beneath the surface, nature is preparing for spring. Use this month to plant your own seeds—whether it’s a new skill, a creative project, or a personal goal. What you nurture now will bloom in the months to come. Trust the process and believe in your ability to grow. We have started planting seeds at work to see the outcome from our trials on the pots we use H-Start (soil inoculant) with and the ones that don’t. There is always a remarkable difference when we use H-Start. Have you ever tried planting petunia seeds? They are so, so tiny. And they take a long time to come up.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

Winter can be tough, and it’s okay to feel low sometimes. Treat yourself with the same compassion you’d offer a friend. Rest when you need to, celebrate your strengths, and remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. This is so very true. And as women in general we often forget to initiate self care. I am certainly guilty of it – but I am working on giving myself more time to relax. Stop and smell the roses as they say.

6. Look Forward to Brighter Days

While February may still feel like winter, it’s also a reminder that spring is just around the corner. The days are gradually getting longer, and with them comes the promise of new beginnings. Let this month be a time of hope and anticipation for the warmth and light ahead. I am sure you have noticed the days getting longer and a lot more heat from the sun in February. It can be -20 out and yet the snow will be melting on the cars and decks.

Final Thought:

February may be short, but it’s full of opportunities to reflect, grow, and connect. Whether you’re celebrating love, taking small steps toward your goals, or simply finding joy in the present, this month is a reminder that even in the coldest seasons, there is warmth to be found. Let February be your month of renewal—a time to recharge your spirit and prepare for the brighter days ahead.

And a Song:

As I listened to some music this morning “Four Strong Winds” came on by Neil Young (Canadian). As most of you know Canadian artist Ian Tyson wrote this song in 1962 and was the first song he had ever written. Ian and his wife Sylvia (at that time) released it in 1963. However, the royalties from Neil Young’s recording of Four Strong Winds made for a down payment on a cattle and horse ranch in Alberta. In 2005 it was also named as the greatest Canadian song of all time by CBC-Radio One program “50 Tracks: The Canadian Version” by its listeners.

In these upcoming months we are all much more aware of being Canadian, purchasing and supporting Canadian businesses.

Here’s to a February filled with love, growth, and endless possibilities.

With warmth and encouragement,

Merle Lee Ann Pratt – merleleeannskitchen.com – Email: merleleeann@gmail.com

YouTube: @merleleeannskitchen

This column is sponsored by MacKenzie Funeral Chapel and Crematorium – We will be there when you need us.

130 9th St. E, Prince Albert, SK

Phone: (306) 763-8488 – https://mackenziechapel.ca