February is a special month for me, as it holds both my birthday and Valentine’s Day. Growing up, my family often combined these celebrations, making Valentine’s Day synonymous with my birthday. It’s a unique and joyful time, filled with love and celebration.

This year, my birthday party with friends was delayed due to a snowstorm at the beginning of the month. It was disappointing, but we rescheduled the gathering for the end of February. Despite the change, it didn’t dampen my spirits.

Valentine’s Day this year feels a bit different. I’ve always associated it with my birthday, so it’s never been a separate occasion for me. However, this year, I’ve embraced the opportunity to create special memories.

One highlight of February was the seminar I hosted on making winter treats. It was a delightful experience, and I plan to use the recipes from the seminar, like apple crisp and chestnut chocolate-covered peanut butter balls, for our Valentine’s Day celebration. It’s a sweet way to combine both my birthday and Valentine’s Day into a memorable event.

If you’d like to learn how to make Apple Crisp and Chestnuts (Chocolate covered Peanut Butter Balls) click this link to get a recording —  Nova Scotia Winter Desserts 

This year, my husband and I decided on a unique way to spend Valentine’s Day. While he is camping in a tent nearby, embracing the winter elements with layers and a wood stove, I’m staying at a cozy cabin with our dog, Karin. Due to her health conditions, she can’t handle the cold, so this arrangement allows us to enjoy each other’s company in comfort.

Despite the challenges of the past few months, I’m grateful for this peaceful time. It’s been a period of adjustment, especially with Karin’s health, but finally, we’re finding a good routine and enjoying some much-needed relaxation. This Valentine’s Day, I’m embracing the simplicity and joy of spending quality time with loved ones and reflecting on what truly matters.

Come chat with me about your Valentine’s Day ! 

Vocabulary List (ESL)

1. Synonymous (adjective)

Meaning: Having the same or very similar meaning; closely connected

Example: For me, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with my birthday.

2. Combine (verb)

Meaning: To put two or more things together

Example: My family often combines Valentine’s Day and my birthday.

3. Celebration (noun)

Meaning: A special event to show happiness or mark an occasion

Example: We planned a celebration with friends.

4. Delayed (adjective / verb)

Meaning: Happening later than planned

Example: The party was delayed because of the snowstorm.

5. Rescheduled (verb)

Meaning: Planned again for a new time

Example: We rescheduled the gathering for the end of February.

6. Dampened (verb)

Meaning: To make something less strong or less enjoyable

Example: The snowstorm did not dampen my spirits.

7. Embrace (verb)

Meaning: To accept something willingly and positively

Example: I embraced the opportunity to make new memories.

8. Highlight (noun)

Meaning: The best or most important part

Example: The seminar was a highlight of my month.

9. Hosted (verb)

Meaning: Organized and led an event

Example: I hosted a seminar about winter treats.

10. Memorable (adjective)

Meaning: Easy to remember because it is special

Example: We created a memorable Valentine’s Day.

11. Unique (adjective)

Meaning: One of a kind; different from others

Example: We chose a unique way to celebrate.

12. Embracing the elements (phrase)

Meaning: Accepting difficult weather conditions

Example: My husband enjoys embracing the elements while camping.

13. Cozy (adjective)

Meaning: Warm, comfortable, and safe

Example: I stayed in a cozy cabin.

14. Arrangement (noun)

Meaning: A plan or agreement

Example: This arrangement works well for us.

15. Adjustment (noun)

Meaning: A small change to make something work better

Example: This winter required many adjustments.

16. Routine (noun)

Meaning: A regular pattern of behavior

Example: We are finally finding a good routine.

17. Much-needed (adjective)

Meaning: Needed very badly

Example: I enjoyed some much-needed relaxation.

18. Simplicity (noun)

Meaning: Being simple and not complicated

Example: I appreciate the simplicity of this Valentine’s Day.

19. Quality time (phrase)

Meaning: Time spent with care and attention

Example: We spent quality time together.

20. Reflecting (verb)

Meaning: Thinking carefully about something

Example: I am reflecting on what truly matters.