Courtesy of Ryan Torris

MAGIC SQUARE

A JUMP START ON SPRING CLEANING

The key to solving a magic square is that each row, column, and the 2 corner-to-corner diagonals must total the given sum.

THE SUM IS 75

11

27 20

5

24 22 15 8

18 16 9 7

10 3 26

11 4 27 20 13 5 23 21 14 12 24 22 15 8 6 18 16 9 7 25 17 10 3 26 19

Good luck!

It’s not quite spring, but if you wanted to get a head start on some cleaning projects one weekend, there are quite a few places we often overlook when doing a deep clean of our homes. Walls : Spot clean scuffs and dirty areas first then use warm water and a gentle cleaning agent to wash the entire wall and follow up with a dry cloth to collect excess moisture. Window blinds : Ideally, you’ll be able to take the entire blind off the window and wash it in the bathtub with water and soap. If that’s not the case, start by vacuuming the blind and/or dusting with a rubber sponge and spot cleaning soiled areas. Dishwasher : Shockingly enough running the dishwasher each day isn’t enough to keep it clean and working in tip top shape. Look to your manufacturer’s manual for their recommended cleaning tips but overall, removing and cleaning the filters and spray arms along with scrubbing away any food residue is going to help a lot. Drains : Regularly cleaning your drains (sink and shower) can help prevent clogs and untimely floods. Remove the stopper to clear out any visible blockages like hair, food or grease. Then use either a natural solution (for example baking soda and lemon juice followed by boiling water) or drain specific cleaner to clear out the parts of the drain you can’t access by hand.

SOLUTION

February is one of the most commonly misspelled words in the English language. FEBRUARY FACTS

The birth flower of February is the violet which symbolizes numerous things including faithfulness, everlasting love and innocence.

In the Southern Hemisphere, February is a summer month, similar to August.

The February birthstone is amethyst which can symbolize intellect, love and security.

February is the only month where it is possible there won’t be a full moon. (Not this year though, it’s February 12, 2025.)