I have to say that February is the most difficult month for me, but thank goodness for special celebrations that happen during this time. They keep me from sinking into snow depression.
Starting off with Chinese New Year; we don't necessairely celebrate it as such, but Chinese culture has always been present throughout my life. For example, there's my love of Chinese food, introduced to me by my dad at an early age. At least once a month, he would corral the family into the car and drive to Montreal's old Chinatown for an authentic Chinese feast.
In the fashion industry, I worked for and with amazing Chinese people that made me appreciate the culture even more. On my annual round-the-world work travels, Hong Kong was one of my favourite destinations. At home, we celebrate February with lanterns which we leave up for Valentine's Day and for my daughter's birthday celebration on the seventeenth.
Being half-Japanese, it could be that lanterns are part of my DNA, but I think they are great for numerous reason. Aside from being pretty, they store away very easily by flattenning themselves. Made of tissue paper and bamboo, they are lightweight and bio-degradable. Yes, they cost more than a bag of balloons, but with a little care, you can re-use them many, many times. We've had these for years. Besides, I don't think that sea turtles would die from eating a paper lantern... unlike balloons.*25 days 'til spring.