Big Budget

• Book a babysitter and head to the spa: Vetta is the closest to me, but you can do a bunch of fun treatments at Cavana Ridge and other locations in our region. Vetta is a big commitment of both finances and time (you need a few hours for sure but can spend the whole day), but the relaxing pay-off is worth it. It is also nice to be forced to turn off your technology and your voice and just…be.
• Dinner Out: Go out for dinner! Maybe you’re better at exploring our region’s various dining locations, but the Orillia area has some fantastic food. Use these occasions to check one out. What is YOUR favourite restaurant? Let us know!

 No Budget

• Dinner at home: You have to eat anyway, why not try a new recipe and make a nice dinner at home? Setting the table nicely, a little candlelight, and some intentionality can really make a difference in your dinner routine.
• Movie Marathon: Curl up on the couch and just veg. Movies are the best at home, because you can pause and run to the bathroom and stock up on snacks whenever you need to.
• Words Matter: A love note can mean so much more than a bouquet of roses ever will. Take the time to express how much you care about someone: romantically, as a friend, or even your children. Our words matter and are important! This is something that is so valuable, but costs nothing.

 Kids in Tow

• Hot Chocolate Picnic: Explore our region, bring hot chocolate and have a picnic outdoors. Kids love any excuse to get hot chocolate. It’s a thumbs-up, approved outing, as long as there is food involved!
• Community Outings: The libraries in our area offer lots of thematic programming. Check their websites and social media for Valentine’s and Family Day themed activities. The Orillia Rec Centre also will have swimming and other drop-in programs happening all February. This is an affordable outing for families.

 Galentine’s Day

• Shared Childcare- Take one for the team and offer to watch a gaggle of kids, while some moms go out. Then the next time, it will be your turn to be childfree and go out with the girls. You don’t have to spend lots of money to have fun! You could go thrifting together (check out the Orillia Thrift Store- my fav!), go out for coffee, or just go for a child-free walk!
• Hot Tubbin’- Forget the days of clubbing, switch to hot tubbing. You likely know at least one mom in your circle who has access to a hot tub or backyard sauna. Capitalize on that! Chip in for a babysitter, then spend an hour hanging out with other moms in someone’s hot tub.

Wherever you are in your parenting journey, try to embrace February before heading into the chaos of March and March Break. Take time to show those you love that you care. Take time for yourself and enjoy this season.