If you are a loyal reader of my blog, you know I struggle with winter. My husband, then boyfriend, pointed out the obvious a few years ago when I did not realize I wrote several blogs about the winter blues. I am doing better than the last few years. Maybe because last year I was busy planning my wedding and this year I am busy planning a baby. However, I still struggle and have to actively work to not succumb to the doldrums. This winter has been a particularly tough one! In Oxford we have seen temps that my poor body has never felt before but no snow (yet). In Oxford, while all our friends and family below us enjoyed snow days and higher temps, we trudged on through the zero degree weather. So today I hold on to hope that we can get at least one good snow day out of this miserable weather. If it is going to be this cold, at least let's get something from it right?
Before winter really set in, I made my mind up to successfully fight the winter blues and find a way to enjoy these cold months. Here are my top ten ways!
10. Enjoy spa days. Mani's, pedi's and massages are all done inside. Some treatments include hot water which is a great way to ward off the chills. Also, choose bright colors that will make you happy even if you are the only one that ever sees your feet during this time.
9. In Poland, Marimekko used bright colors in their designs so that the citizens enduring the long winter months could surround themselves with images of spring. You can do the same thing. Put out fresh flowers. Decorate with bright colored throw pillows, blankets or even hand towels. Just bring some color into your house!
8. Plan fun dinner parties or social gatherings. People tend to not be as social right after the Christmas holiday partying so plan a fun event to gather friends in a warm place.
7. Celebrate Mardi Gras! No matter where you live the taste of New Orleans combined with the sound of Zydeco music and the colors of purple, green and gold have to make you happy.
6. Indulge in all the Valentine's festivities. Everyone can enjoy this holiday! The day, with all the brightly colored red and pink decorations, just makes me happy.
5. Shop. A definite happy indoor activity. Plus the winter sales are great at this time.
4. Work on a new (indoor) home project. I am starting a painting that has been on my pinterest for ever.
3. Cozy up with a fuzzy blanket, hot drink and a good movie or book. Soon the weather will be too good to enjoy the cozy, home activities.
2. When all else fails, plan a spring time vacation to remind you spring will arrive again.
1. SNOW DAYS (yes, still the best part of winter)
