Countdown to Spring - 6 Ways to Bide Your Time

Is everyone ready for it? The long interminable months before Spring really shines on Ontario's Southwest? Before Spring, and flowers, and smells, and festivals, and all those lovely things return, we thought we'd help you get through. 

One global trend we've noted is to attempt a new craft, or push yourself out of your comfort zone and try something new. Thankfully there are plenty of options in St. Thomas for you to partake in during this seasonal transition. Below find our list of featured activities that will work well to brighten up these dreary days!

1. TOUR A LOCAL MUSEUM

It's time to start exploring. We are very fortunate here in St. Thomas and Elgin County to have a wide variety of museums catering to all sorts of different interests!

The History Buff: the Elgin County Heritage Centre - The Elgin County Railway Museum - Elgin Military Museum
The Nostalgic: Gay Lea Dairy Museum - Dowler Karn Museum
The Architect: CASO Station

2. RESEARCH YOUR GENEALOGY

Before signing up for an Ancestry membership, visit our local archives to see what you can find about your roots. The Elgin County Archives is a great resource, with much of their collection online. However, to go really deep pay them a visit. You never know what you'll learn!

And don't forget the St. Thomas Public Library. They allow free use of Ancestry at the library, and also have an amazing collection of local history items!

3. TAKE AN ART CLASS

We have plenty of local options for you to get those creative juices flowing! Check out Romantic Designs for their classes, including their March Break camp. Our own Public Art Centre has many offerings, as well as a March Break camp. Laing Studios offers classes in everything from photography, to animation, to painting. 

4. GET MOVING!

We all know that things can get a bit stationary in the Winter. Here are a few options that you may not have considered to get you out of that comfort zone!

Martial Arts:  Brasa Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, located downtown at 491 Talbot,  and offers everything from kickboxing to jiu jitsu for kids and adults.
Boxing: Check out Championship City if you want to learn how to box. They offer classes for kids 7-11 as well as everyone 12 years and up. They even offer 2 free classes during the week in case you want to try it out!

The St. Thomas Stars are currently in the playoff hunt. Tickets are only $12 for an adult and $5 for a child (kids 5 and under are free), and it's a guaranteed good time all around! Their special "Fill the Rink" event is also coming up February 15 against the Komoka Kings and is always an exciting event. So what are you waiting for?