Stop and smell the roses

Family Day is a holiday observed on the third Monday of February each year.

It gives people a great opportunity to spend time reconnecting and enjoying activities with friends and loved ones. The holiday has been well-received since the province of Ontario joined the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan in its observance in 2008.

British Columbia will begin observing the holiday in 2013.

I find it very beneficial to have a long weekend in the middle of winter. February is generally a cold and dull time of year, which sometimes leads to hibernation, or worse, feelings of isolation or depression.

Researchers recommend we get adequate amounts of sunshine to boost our Vitamin D. Some cite "decreased outdoor activity" as one reason why people become Vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D, also known as the "sunshine vitamin" has been shown to be beneficial in preventing a host of illnesses such as heart disease, osteoporosis, certain types of cancer, depression, etc.

This Family Day, Sudburians had more reasons than ever to get outside with their loved ones and pets to enjoy a long weekend, which was enhanced by mild and sunny weather.

Sudbury's inaugural Winterfest was enjoyed by many at Moonlight Beach, and many local swimming pools and arenas offered free or reduced-rate admission to encourage people to swim or skate.

If you chose to skate outside, there were many outdoor rinks available for all to enjoy, such as the Queen Elizabeth Skating Oval, the Ramsey Lake Skating Path or the newly formed rink on Moonlight Beach, which was created especially for Winterfest.

Sudburians were seen all over the city soaking up the fresh air and sunshine while taking part in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Many people tried their luck ice fishing on area lakes, as the requirement for a fishing licence was waived for the Family Day weekend.

Everyone knows there just doesn't seem to be enough time in a regular two-day weekend. An extra day gives folks a chance to do things they would not normally have time for, like visiting friends and family out of town.

Having Family Day in February is awesome, but please remember that we do not need a long weekend or a special occasion to stop and smell the roses or enjoy those around us. There are moments every day where we can take the time to enjoy the beauty of nature. Sometimes, I take a day off work in the middle of the week to recharge or catch up on tasks that I've been procrastinating, after all, life is short.

Enjoy the little moments.

Janet Young is an amateur photographer who likes to share community events with Sudburians.