During the coldest months of the year, a fireplace can be your best friend. Especially in areas that get cold, fireplaces can be effective for heating homes at a fraction of the price of central heating systems. They’re scenic, cozy, and can add value to a home. The benefits of having a fireplace in your home can be incredibly convincing.
They're Cozy
There's a special kind of comfort you receive when sitting next to a fire. It doesn't matter whether you have a fireplace insert, a wood stove, or a traditional fireplace. The simple act of sitting near the soft glow and warmth of the flames can help bring a special pleasure to the winter months. Enjoy a book or a movie or play a board game next to the fireplace. The options are limitless.
They're Romantic
What's more romantic than cuddling up with your loved one in front of a fire? If you’re spending the night in or need a little escape after putting the kids to bed, the fireplace can be a great option, especially with a glass of wine.
They Work Even When the Power's Out
Do you live somewhere where winter storms regularly knock the power out? If so, you probably want a fireplace in your home. A fireplace will work even when the electricity’s out, and your family will be cozy and still have light while everyone else is busy waiting for the power company to fix things.
They’re Cheaper
Electricity is expensive in most places. As costs continue to increase, people turn to cheaper ways to keep their homes warm. Fireplaces tend to heat a home at a fraction of the price. It’s typically less expensive to use a wood-burning fireplace than to rely on electrical heat. Even gas fireplaces are cheaper than heating systems in the house.
If you have a wooden fireplace, you get to benefit from stepping away from utility companies. Since you can source your own fuel, you can control how much you are willing to pay. You may even live somewhere where you can cut down your own firewood on your property.
They Raise Your Home's Value
The benefits of having a fireplace in your home include one more advantage: your home's value can increase. There are many reasons why a fireplace is a good investment for your home that you need to seriously consider. If you ever decide to sell your home, you'll know that your home will sell for more than others that may lack this amenity. Plus, if you take good care of your fireplace, it can be incredibly visually appealing and add further value to the house.
Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday sit side by side on the calendar, but they feel very different.
One is full of color, music, and celebration. The other is quiet, simple, and reflective.
Together, they form a powerful transition from feasting to fasting, from Carnival to Lent.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of February 17, 2026. The first day of fasting will likely fall on February 18. The month will end around March 19, 2026, depending on local moon sightings. These dates may be changed, depending on the country.
A red robin watches a Ramadan family prayer with warmth and wonder.
Ride into the rare Year of the Fire Horse with legends, dragon dances, lucky foods, and a fiery red robin salute to Lunar New Year. The Year of the Fire Horse is one of the most dramatic and culturally charged cycles in the Chinese zodiac. It appears only once every 60 years, and when it does, it ignites stories of passion, rebellion, creativity, and change.
From ancient legends to modern festivals filled with dragon dances and lanterns, the Fire Horse gallops through history
as a symbol of both risk and possibility.
Quick Fire Horse Snapshot:
Rare 60-year cycle • Fiery passion • Bold change • Artistic energy • A time to move, create, and transform.
Fire Horse-inspired lantern art at a Lunar New Year celebration.
As mid-February settles in, Presidents' Day arrives as a welcome pause in the winter season, a moment when
communities across the United States step outdoors for parades, visit historic sites, and reflect on the
leaders who shaped the nation. The holiday blends civic pride with the comfort of a long weekend, creating
a unique mix of celebration, education, and family time.
In 2026, the holiday on February 16th carries added significance as the nation enters its 250th anniversary year,
inspiring expanded programming, special exhibitions, and renewed interest in the country’s founding era.
From record spending to instant downloadable gifts for couples, pets, and families. For late shoppers, these ideas make a great solution for finding meaningful gifts.
Valentine’s Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet. Recent retail surveys show
that total Valentine’s spending is expected to reach record levels, with average budgets per
person climbing close to the $200 mark. Consumers aren’t just buying for romantic
partners anymore; they’re also celebrating kids, pets, friends, and themselves.
At the same time, how people express love is changing. Instead of defaulting to last‑minute
flowers and generic chocolates, many are looking for gifts that feel personal, meaningful,
and easy to deliver, especially when they’ve left things a little late. That’s where
downloadable, print‑at‑home, and digital gifts step into the spotlight.
