Signs of Spring

There are many exciting signs that spring is in the air, with summer just around the corner. Melting snow, buds waking up. But none is more thrilling to me than the lengthening day. At the end of the work day, I am greeted with daylight. It happens every year, but I’m always amazed.

Other signs of spring:

• Fatigue: See above. Losing that extra hour of sleep is a killer!
• Rummage sales: What a liberating tradition. As the earth warms, we begin to shed all the clutter that weighs us down, both literally and figuratively. For an instant pick-me-up, throw some stuff you don’t need into a bag and find a local rummage sale raising money for charity.
• Earth Day, April 22: Why not celebrate Earth Day every day this month? Start by checking out our March/April issue, which includes inspiring everyday eco-tips from our readers, as well as craft projects using items from your recycling bin.
• March Break crowds: Guess what? Ours was not the only family with the brilliant idea of visiting the Ontario Science Centre.
• The Spring BabyTime show: Here at ParentsCanada, we never miss attending the largest baby and toddler expo in Canada. What a great chance to meet readers and hear what’s on your mind. Come visit our booth April 15, 16 or 17 at the International Centre in Mississauga and say hello.  You can renew or get a subscription to ParentsCanada and receive a Lysol No-Touch Hand Soap System and get a chance to win great prizes! We are giving three strollers, one for each day of the event.  For more info, visit babytimeshows.ca. 
• Walks for charity: Every time I check my email, some energetic friend is walking or running a 10K. I’m more than pleased to cheer them on since I don’t seem to be able to get my act in gear to do it myself. ParentsCanada is proud to support the Serenity Walk for Childhood Cancer Research, happening May 15 in Kelowna, B.C. It’s the first year of the walk, but organizers hope to spread across Canada in the coming years. Seventy percent of the money raised will go toward childhood cancer research, and 30 percent will go to the British Columbia Childhood Cancer Parents Association, supporting families of children with cancer. For more information, or to donate, visit serenitywalkforresearch.org.

Don’t forget to pick up our latest issue and tell us what you think!