Illustration by Nicholas Massarelli
1. Get ready for daylight saving time
March 12 is coming before you know it, so instead of getting hit all at once with an hour
less of sleep, make the transition slowly.
2. Spend a day at a museum
There are hidden treasures all around Philadelphia that will get you out of the house for a day and into a different frame of mind.
3. Do something daring
You know February is Black History Month, but did you know that it’s also Spunky Old Broads Month? We’ll leave it up to you what kind of civil disobedience best suits the current clime.
4. Plan a cozy winter getaway
Not everyone can take a week or two off to get to a warmer locale in the winter, but you can still change your scenery even if you skip the plane ride. Consider a two-night stay at a regional bed and breakfast, or even search for a foray at an Airbnb rental that features a fireplace or access to wooded walks. Many locations are pet friendly, which means the whole family can go along.
5. Go on a crocus hunt
It’s hard to believe, but little green tips are about to start heralding spring. Make a game out of finding them with the kids, or pick out some spots you might plant bulbs next year.
6. Check on your emergency supplies
Just because we haven’t been hit by a big winter storm yet doesn’t mean it’s not coming. A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and nonperishable food are at the top of the list—don’t forget food and water for your pets. You should also have on hand flashlights with extra batteries, a wrench and pliers to turn off utilities, a first aid kit and a whistle to be able to call for help.
7. Get your ice skates on
Your last chance to skate at City Hall is on Feb. 26. When you’ve had your fill at the rink, you can also try out America’s Garden Capital Maze, which features winter shrubs, topiaries and even flowers. Afterward, head to the Rothman Institute Cabin for some hot chocolate.
8. Start your search for a spring farm share
When March comes around, you’ll want to know which farm you’re going to pair up with for farm-fresh produce, delivered weekly through a CSA.
9. Sow your lettuce and radish seeds
It’s also time to start thinking about starting seeds indoors for long-germinating annuals such as petunias and snapdragons. It will take two months until they’re ready to transplant.
10. Clean out the freezer
At some point during the year, you’ve got to get through that extra pasta sauce and the vegetables and herbs you froze from the garden. Make a plan to use something every week so that you don’t end up tossing a freezer-burned bag of homegrown peas or the winter stew you made last month.
