We all know George Washington said, "I cannot tell a lie," when he cut down a cherry tree (not true, by the way), but since today is President's Day (the third Monday of February), show your kids your smarts by quizzing them on what some other Presidents are known for. Thomas Jefferson was into archaelogy. James Madison had a pet parrot named Polly. Andrew Jackson was the only president to be held as a prisoner of war. John Tyler was the first president to serve without being elected (after William Harrison's untimely death). James Buchanan kept an eagle as a pet. Abraham Lincoln created the Secret Service hours before he was assassinated. Chester Arthur liked fashion so much he kept a closet filled with 80 pairs of pants. Howard Taft got stuck in a bathtub while in the White House. Herbert Hoover donated his salary to charity. George Bush was knighted by the Queen of England. Bill Clinton played the saxophone while in office. Share some of these, and your kiddos will think you're the President of the Class. (Get it ... president of the class?)

You can find Valentine's Day discounts as much as 90% off! Check your freezer space. Chocolate freezes well and can last you through the entire year. Prices drop through early March, but your best selection is now. Don't forget Walgreens and CVS, or even Godiva! They discount their holiday chocos, too!

You've likely heard of Susan B. Anthony (the dollar coin, and all), but did you know she is legendary for enabling modern women's rights? Big time activist? Absolutely! Championing suffrage (the right to vote) in the 1800's? You bet! Anthony paved the way for modern women to go to the polls and voice their opinion. You go, girl! Let's give a cheer for February 15 as we celebrate Susan B. Anthony Day!

We can build each other up and make the dark days of February brighter by sharing positive, practical, and pragmatic things with your friends. Remind them of their good traits (positive). Ask if they need you to pick up anything when you are headed to the store (practical). Stop by and see if they need help with their children or housework (pragmatic). We've got each other's back! Good as gold!

How about some garden love, here? Cannas, iris beds, and established deciduous trees like their fertilizer about now. Low-nitrogen, slow-release, except for the trees. For deciduous trees, bang it up with high nitrogen for the best summer foliage. If you're unsure, check with your garden center for the best ratios for your area.

  1. Mark Your Calendar for Love
  2. Take a Hike!
  3. Shear Delight!
  4. You Thought February Was Just the 14th?