Ottawa: The Savvy Guide to March

March features lucky little green men with top hats, but more importantly it brings with it the promise of little green leaves—from the ground and the trees. Keep your chin up and do a jig if you must. There is reason to celebrate. Here’s our Savvy Guide to March.
DO
A spring clean.
Why? Because it’s easier than you think if you follow some of these tips and you’ll feel so good when it’s all done.

GO
Explore some wintery exhibits at the Museum of Nature.
Why? Arctic Kaleidoscope (opens March 11) is a collection of 80 photographs by local photographer Michelle Valberg. While you’re on the topic of life in extreme climates, don’t miss Ends of the Earth for a quick trip from pole to pole and get to know more about the lives of penguins and polar bears.

GET
Rid of the dog poo in your backyard that has been hiding under the snow all winter. Seriously.
Why? Because it’s much easier to do while still frozen. You know that. We’re just reminding you.

PLAY
Your favourite music and dance to it with your kids.
Why? It can’t always be their music, all the time. Start influencing their music tastes—it will help with family car trips in your future.

READ
Sing You Home by Jodi Picoult
Why? It addresses the issues of infertility, adoption, and what makes up a traditional family in today’s day and age. A heart-wrenching family drama with a tense courtroom ending, it’s a must-read for March Break this year (and we have 10 copies to give away).

SURF
Our new Tips section on SavvyMom.
Why? Because it’s new and there are some very cool ideas to peruse thanks to all our savvy readers who are sending their tips in. And until February 28, every tip entered also means you’ve entered for a chance to win a George Foreman G-BroilT EZ Clean Grill.

APP IT
ABC Expedition (for iPad users)
Why? While it sounds like the alphabet, it’s really a zoo. You’ll see.

GREEN IT
Remember to take the roof rack off your car if you aren’t using it anymore.
Why? Because the extra weight causes your car to use up more fuel.

HELP
Support “Once Upon a Fairytale,” a family-friendly fundraiser hosted by Hopeful-Hearts Dog Rescue on March 27
Why? Because you can dress up as your favourite fairytale character and get the princess treatment. There’s also storytelling, face painting, cookie decorating, crafts, and the chance to win cool prizes in support of this fur-friendly charity.

DEAL IT
Get a free matching sun hat (valued at $20) with each 50++UPF swim and play all-day wear outfit from SunSmarty until March 31. To claim your deal, choose Savvymom–Deal of the Month at the checkout under ‘How did you find us?’
Why? Because if you’re lucky enough to be hitting some hot weather soon, you’ll need this essential item.