This year is Canada’s sesquicentennial, marking 150 years since 1867. Time sure flies, eh?

To commemorate this important birthday, we’re all eligible to receive a free Parks Canada Discovery Pass for 2017. They provide free access to all national parks and are great for outdoorsy types and families, too.

This year’s Canada Day in July is sure to be one of our biggest celebrations ever, but many national parks are open year-round. So why not get an early start with a winter road trip? If you’re lucky, you might even get more of the park to yourself this time of year.

To help you get started, here’s some information on one great winter national park destination for each Western Canadian province.

First, some quick winter road trip tips:

British Columbia – Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Photo by Ruth Hartnup on Flickr

Known For: Pacific Coast mountains and a marine and forest environment.
Approximate Driving Time From: Victoria (4hrs), Vancouver* (6hrs), Kamloops* (9hrs), Kelowna* (11hrs) *Depending on BC Ferries departure times.

Winter Activities: Pacific Rim National Park is split into several sections on Vancouver Island’s southwest coast. The most popular is the Long Beach area, near Tofino. Due to warm coastal winds, the daily average high in February and March is about ten degrees, meaning you can hike in the ancient cedar forest or down along the water, even during winter! Feeling adventurous? The winter months are also the best time for surfing, with the highest and most consistent waves.

Other BC National Parks:
Glacier National Park
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site
Kootenay National Park
Mount Revelstoke National Park
Yoho National Park

Alberta – Banff National Park

Photo by davidgsteadman on Flickr

Known For: Rocky mountain views and being Canada’s first National Park (1885)
Approximate Driving Time From: Calgary (2hrs), Lethbridge (4hrs), Edmonton (4hrs), Vernon, BC (5hrs)

Winter Activities: Nestled within a connected network of four national parks in the Canadain Rockies, Banff during winter is amazing no matter how often you go. It has everything a Canadian could ask for, including skiing (both alpine and cross-country), snowshoeing, a hot spring, gondola rides, and more. Of course, taking in the stunning views of Lake Louise is a must. If you have time, be sure to also check out the equally stunning nearby Jasper National Park.

Other Alberta National Parks:
Elk Island National Park
Jasper National Park
Waterton Lakes National Park
Wood Buffalo National Park

Saskatchewan – Prince Albert National Park

Photo by Ladylaurels Choice on Pinterest

Known For: Being a massive protected region of northern forest and wildlife.
Approximate Driving Time From: Prince Albert (1hr), North Battleford (3hrs), Saskatoon (3hrs), Regina (5hrs)

Winter Activities: It may be cold, with daily highs around -5C in February and March, but that’s never stopped true Saskatchewanians from enjoying the great outdoors. And why should it? Not when there are so many winter activities available, including cross country skiing and even curling. Perhaps the best winter activity in Prince Albert National Park is spotting wildlife, like otters, foxes, bison, or especially birds, with dozens of species viewable during winter.

Other Saskatchewan National Parks:
Grasslands National Park

Manitoba – Riding Mountain National Park

oTENTik promo photo by Parks Canada

Whether you’re a romantic at heart, a cynic, or perhaps a supporter of Galentine’s Day, February 14th offers an opportunity to express some appreciation (or affection) for the lovely people in your life. To help, we’ve prepared for you a list of the most thoughtful gift ideas for every type of Valentine.

Gifts for the Techie

Does your Valentine’s idea of a fun evening involve setting up a new sound system, or challenging you to the latest multiplayer video game? If so, this list is for you.

iHome SmartPlug

For those with a do-it-all mentality, the iHome SmartPlug is the ideal gift. No more arguing about whose turn it is to hit the lights before bed — this device syncs up to your smartphone to control electronics around the home, including your music, heaters, fans and audio systems.

Outdoor Buckshot Pro Speaker

Is your spouse someone who can’t get enough of the outdoors, but still feels the need to be plugged in? This 3-in-1 Outdoor Buckshot Pro Speaker includes a removable LED flashlight, built-in microphone and USB charging port that can be mounted onto bike handlebars.

Kobo eReader

For the less outdoorsy tech type who prefers settling down with a good book, the waterproof and dustproof Kobo eReader is a sleek alternative to lugging around a hardback. Fitting up to 1,000 ebooks easily downloadable from the eBookstore with built-in WiFi, this reader is portable and customizable to each individual.

Fitbit Alta

Have you and your partner, friend or family member been training for a marathon or trying to kickstart a new health plan? Do it together with the Fitbit Alta. Download the app to your phone and compete against each other daily to meet your goals. The wristband is slim and subtle, and tracks your fitness statistics while also notifying you of any incoming phone messages.

Gifts for the Gals

If you know some proud single ladies who like to celebrate modern Galentine’s Day with a night out, or if you just want your mom, sister or best friend to feel extra special on the 14th, we’ve got you covered with these classic, timeless gifts.

Valentine’s Day cards

Show your appreciation for your closest female friends with interactive and funny Valentines cards. You’re never too old to drop them a cute note with the reasons why their friendship means the world to you.

Delicious treats

You’ll also be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn’t love receiving chocolate. Whether it’s a box of chocolates or a bouquet, put a smile on your loved one’s face with their favourite sweet treat. Are they not a fan of sugar and prefer saltier snacks? Celebrate their tough side in a cheeky way with a pack of beef jerky in their favourite flavour.

Latest beauty trend

Do you know someone obsessed with makeup and the latest beauty trends? This year, surprise them with makeup products that even they may not have yet tried. Some options include a customizable lip palette, bronzer kit or nail set. If you’re not sure what colour to buy or what they already have in their collection, pick up a beauty tray to help organize their makeup.

Gifts for Kids

Have fun with your kids, students or other family members this Valentine’s Day by going beyond the ordinary. Check out the following products, or mix-and-match to create your own DIY V-Day kits.

Interactive fun

Decorate a plastic basket with red ribbon and fill with candy and a stuffed plushie. Alternatively, pick up a pre-made basket versatile for any age group. Make this holiday interactive by creating Valentine’s cards with the whole family. Whether the kids are Star Wars fans, or can’t get enough of emojis, London Drugs carries different themes for everybody. Pick up a sticker kit to add personal flair to every card and Valentine.

Traditional (and silly) treats

Consider getting a bit silly this Valentine’s Day with edible lips or ring pops, or by creatively decorating your own Valentine’s Day cookies. Can’t get enough of a good thing? Chocolate hearts and cinnamon candies are always well-received staple during this time of year.

Gifts for Grandparents

Spoil your grandparents this February 14th with personalized gifts that are guaranteed to put a smile on their faces. Even if it’s something small like a handmade card and a cute keychain, the simplest gesture coming from you will brighten their day.

Something warm

For grandpa, a pair of cozy slippers will keep feet warm year round — and dry too, when he goes to collect the newspaper in the morning. A gift of aftershave lotion not only soothes his skin after shaving, but will make him smell fresh all day long. Really impress him by slipping a golfing gift card into his card to look forward to the summer months.

DIY spa day

Have a spa day with grandma and make her feel like a queen. Treat her to a mani-pedi at your local salon or do-it-yourself with an at-home kit. Settle in with a nice mug of hot chocolate and a DVD you know she’ll adore. Leave her to relax in a bath with the soothing scent of lavender to finish off a perfect day.

Share the memories

Make sure your grandparents keep you in mind all the time by personalizing their very own calendar for the kitchen or hallway. Choose photographs with some of your best memories — in front of the Christmas tree when you were a toddler, having a picnic in the summer, or the family portrait at graduation.

Gifts for Pets

For many people, true love is expressed through the relationship with cats, dogs and other animals. Pets are there for you unconditionally, calming you down after a long day at work — or  wreaking just enough havoc to keep you on your toes. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your pet with the following gifts.

Furbaby photos

If your colleagues tease you for posting picture after picture of your pet in costumes all over social media, head over to our PhotoLab to create a lasting image of your furbaby to keep within sight at the office. Some ideas include mousepads for your desk, iPad cases to carry with you everywhere, pet bowls, water bottles and more.

Treats and toys

Stock up on tasty treats for your dog or cat. Some of our pet favourites are Beggin Strips (bacon for dogs) and healthy lifestyle treats for the carb-conscious pup, or catnip and liver treats to spoil your cat. Keep your dog tired and happy after playing with dog toys and doing double duty chewing on a dog bone that helps clean their teeth. Bedazzle your cat with a sparkly collar to match the season, and spoil yourself with pet wipes that will not only keep your pet’s paws clean, but will prevent any dirt from staining your couch.

Make sure to cuddle up with your furbaby and enjoy a night together watching a classic animal-lover movie.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at London Drugs!

The Runaway Midwife by Patricia Harman
Midwife Clara Perry is accustomed to comforting her pregnant patients…calming fathers-to-be as they anxiously await the birth of their children…ensuring the babies she delivers come safely into the world.
But when Clara’s life takes a nosedive, she realizes she hasn’t been tending to her own needs and does something drastic: she runs away and starts over again in a place where no one knows her or the mess she’s left behind in West Virginia. Heading to Sea Gull Island – a tiny, remote Canadian island – Clara is ready for anything. Well, almost. She left her passport back home, and the only way she can enter Canada is by hitching a ride on a  snowmobile and illegally crossing the border.
Deciding to reinvent herself, Clara takes a new identity – Sara Livingston, a writer seeking solitude. But there’s no avoiding the outside world. The residents are friendly, and draw ‘Sara’ into their lives and confidences. She volunteers at the local medical clinic, using her midwifery skills, and forms a tentative relationship with a local police officer.
But what will happen if she lets down her guard and reveals the real reason why she left her old life? One lesson soon becomes clear: no matter how far you run, you can never really hide from your past.

Book of the Month
Every month we will be featuring a new book to be showcased in our Book of the Month. Staff members and friends will be reading the book and posting their reviews. We’d love to hear what you thought of these books as well. Post your comments and let us know.

The Runaway Midwife is available at London Drugs along with many other great titles and is on sale for the month of February.

With the changing seasons, it’s only natural to start daydreaming about the next vacation with your loved one. Thankfully, you don’t have to go far in Western Canada to get away.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, anniversary weekend or honeymoon celebration, the following staycations can be just as refreshing as any exotic holiday — and better yet, they’re all close to home.

The Royal Treatment

Have you and your partner been itching for a spa retreat, but can’t commit to a week away from work? All you need is a good soundtrack and a few hours on the road to escape the city and live a short—but sweet—weekend of luxury.

Osoyoos, B.C.

Lake Osoyoos, located in the south of the Okanagan bordering Washington, is said to be B.C.’s warmest lake. The town of Osoyoos is located a quick drive away from Oliver, the wine capital of the province, and is also home to many award-winning wineries. Stay at the lakeside Walnut Beach Resort for its private beach, or book a stay in The Spare Room B & B for a gorgeous view of the town.

Lake Louise, A.B.

Located around a glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park and sporting jaw-dropping views, Lake Louise is ideal for ski bunnies and hiking enthusiasts. Book a stay in rustic Deer Lodge for a dip in their rooftop hot tub, or really live like royalty and hike up to Skoki Lodge where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge themselves took respite.

Moosejaw, S.K.

While Saskatchewan may not be the first place folks think of when it comes to beach getaways, it is home to some of Canada’s most beautiful lakes. Moosejaw in particular is world renown for its mineral springs. A stay in Temple Gardens Hotel and Spa is the perfect remedy for tired muscles, and is a sure-fire way to ignite a romantic evening.

Waterfront Destination

Whether you’re accustomed to beach sunsets on the B.C. Coast or lakeside views in Prairie parks, Western Canada is abound with stunning waterfronts. Backcountry, frontcountry, or bear country—wake up next to the water however you want (just don’t forget to pack sunscreen and your Parks Canada Discovery Pass).

Galiano, B.C.

This small Southern Gulf Island between Vancouver and Vancouver Island is accessible by BC Ferries and doesn’t require a vehicle to explore. Galiano Inn can be booked for weddings and offers spa treatments and private yoga lessons. If you want a more rustic vacation, consider renting out a quaint cabin with trails to the ocean.

Icefields Parkway, A.B.

Depending on where you live and how much time you have, you can choose just how many of the 232 kilometres between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park in the Rockies you’d like to see. The Icefields Parkway (or Highway 93 North) is one of the top attractions in the province, with views of Peyto Lake and Moraine Lake, to name a few. Rent an RV, camp or book a hotel package for convenience.

Central Region Parks, M.B.

Close to Winnipeg, Grand Beach Provincial Park, Elk Island Provincial Park and dozens of beaches, book a night or two at Bear Country Cottage Resort or Spirit Rock Inn. Have day dates at Beaches Golf Course, fishing, find a hiking trail or snowshoe in the park.

Into the wild

If fancy hotels aren’t your cup of tea, or you’re looking for a unique experience to calm your weekday nerves, there are many options to suit your needs. If you’re looking for adventure close to home, plan a day trip with your SO without worrying about travel times, and plan accordingly for the outdoors.

Cypress Provincial Park, B.C.

Get out of the city any time of the year with a quick shuttle stop north of West Vancouver. During the winter months, Cypress Mountain is a snow sport haven for couples and families. In the summer, a favourite local gem is atop Black Mountain at Cabin Lake. Only a kilometre or two hike along a well-marked incline, Cabin Lake is a pristine swimming hole for couples to set up camp for a day trip.

Prince Albert National Park, S.K.

Play a round of golf, join a canoe tour or hit the beach in Waskesiu along the lake. You can even book a ranch retreat at Sturgeon River Ranch to experience the wild west of the Prairies. There, you can view Canada’s only free-roaming bison and book a horseback tour for a romantic stroll in the wilderness.

Comfort camping in M.B.

For a camping holiday unlike any other, pack your bags and your partner and pick the provincial park of your choice, making sure they offer the option of renting out a yurt. Part cabin, part tent, staying in a yurt is bound to make for unforgettable stories. Roast marshmallows, snuggle by the campfire and sleep under the stars in style.

When you’re travelling within Canada on a staycation, talk to our LD insurance experts online or in-store to make sure you have the right travel coverage. Happy exploring!

Maybe your life would have been easier if your kid didn’t have allergies and could eat a peanut butter sandwich and yogurt for lunch every single day. Maybe it would have been easier if you married your high school boyfriend, or studied law like your mother told you to. Or maybe not. Life is good, right? And your child is amazing, and wonderful. Law school and high-school boyfriends, be damned!

We suggest learning how to love the creative possibilities in the moment before packing up that lunchbox — and we offer, below, a round-up of allergy-friendly school lunch ideas with links to delicious recipes to help you on your way.

1. Arm yourself with facts

In addition to discovering and understanding your child’s prime allergen(s), you’ll have to remember that offending ingredients are sometimes present in very unexpected places. Dairy may be in processed meats, for instance. Egg proteins are sometimes found in egg substitutes! No kidding. Always read the labels. Try easy substitutions like almond milk instead of 1% and coconut flour instead of wheat flour.

And check this list of common hidden places and suggestions for substitutions on the Eating Well blog.

2. Be honest with your kids

Focus on what your child can eat, instead of faking what they can’t. Forget any foods that come with quotation marks: “peanut” butter or “egg” salad sandwiches, for example. Kids resent being tricked. Instead break free of lunch kit conventions with inside-out recipes like these giant shell pasta noodles stuffed with chicken and vegetables, or a chicken breast filled with grated carrot and grapes.

Find more tips here on menu-planning, along with a fantastic archive of recipes, sorted by the major common allergens.

3. Save your leftovers

Purchase a high-quality insulated container in fun colours for leftovers from supper. They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but this is nearly work-free. Your supper is already allergen-appropriate and kid-tested, right? Just chuck it in a little thermos and you’re done. Take that, sandwich artists! These warming soups and pastas would also make a class-y thermos lunch.

Discover more great tips and recipes like these egg-free, gluten-free meatballs from Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom.

4. Dream big

Imagine that popular fast food your kid could never eat, and figure out a way to make it. They’ll appreciate the extra effort! These nut-, dairy-, egg-, red meat- and shellfish-free corn dogs from Allergic Kid blog will catch eyes in the classroom. Yum!

5.  Go designer

There’s something about sharing lunch ideas—especially allergen-free—that has some mums and dads going bananas over presentation. Not to say you’ll want to carve carrots into roses every morning…but that space provided by the absent sandwich does make a tempting blank canvas, doesn’t it?

Get inspired by Kelly McGuire’s rainbow-beautiful list of 20 non-sandwich school lunch ideas for inspiration.