Hello dear readers!

Here we are in the second month of 2008. I hope it is going well with you. It wasn’t very well for me in the beginning when the winter bug hit me and shifted my mood to blue. However, remembering our January issue when we spoke about the benefits of white tea, I thought I’d give it a try and I did. So while in my favourite PJs, reading “Chicken Soup for Every Mom’s Soul”, I am brewing white tea. Hmm, the delicate flavour and the aroma indeed have its soothing effect. A must try, if you haven’t yet.

I haven’t finished the book but since love is in the air for our February issue, let me share with you an excerpt from Mother Teresa, which is on page 2 of the book. It says: “Love is a fruit in season at all times and within reach of every hand”.

So true and so for the valentine season, enjoy flipping every page of our ‘GTA This Month’ as we give you great ideas for celebrating  Valentine’s Day, whether or not you’re in love. Covering the spectrum of this fun day, you’ll realize how many fun and practical ideas there could be to enjoy this annual day whether you are single, dating or committed to a relationship.

Our profile of the month, Mary Jane Agra, spoke about her own scintillating journey towards her remarkable accomplishments starting at a very tender age. MJ, our young achiever of the month, is deeply focused and determined.  Having migrated to Canada less than five years ago with her family and leaning on her remarkable awards and recognitions, Mary Jane in T.O. is on her way to success. She is a character that will give a sparkle of hope to our young readers.

Still in the spirit of love, our VS corner compares mailing out your greetings the old fashioned way or electronically. Either way, she’ll convince you to follow the trend, well more likely. I, personally, would prefer the convenient way of clicking the button to let my love ones know that there are sweeter things than the sweets to live for. Remember, the message itself is the most important.

February also brings us the celebration of Chinese New Year. In T.O. we have the highest population of Chinese nationals and it has grown tremendously over the years. This means, T.O. will be dazzled and drizzled with a hearty welcome as we begin the Chinese year of the rat. Our related article on this will keep you moving with elegant lion dances for happiness in 2008.

Torontonians will also celebrate the black history month this February which brings a unique blend of culture and diversity to us. Let us embrace this unique celebration in honour of our brothers and sisters who have contributed a great deal of their lives towards pursuing their commitments in all areas of life and be recognized for their great deeds., be it in science, education, arts, culture and many more. Theirs is an example of courage beyond borders.

And yes, don’t forget, officially in T.O., family day is on February 18, maybe we should slow down a bit and live by the minute and truly spend quality time with our families.

Criss Papa-Nañola
Editor