We’ve already had our first huge snowstorm in the northeast. The dreaded call came early in the morning: school is closed. It happened back in October and it was a disaster. The Grinch arrived two months early and stole our Halloween. My four kids and I were losing our minds by day two. If that early snowfall is any indication more snow days are on the way. I won’t be caught off guard next time. Now, with a little planning, I’m ready. Here are 10 Essential Ways to Help Survive the Snow Days and stave off those dreaded winter blues.
1. Coffee. Seriously, stock up. I drove out in a storm last winter like a lunatic after realizing I had run out of my daily dose of sanity. Most of us are addicted and a snow day is not the best time to go through withdrawal. I’ve learned my lesson. Why risk your life when you can make it safely at home?
2. Lots of Gloves and Extra Snow Pants. Seriously, there is nothing worse on a snow day than scrambling to mix and match gloves. Maybe it’s just my house, but the monster stealing our socks seems to have a thing for my kids mittens and gloves too, so stock up.
3. Get Your Bake On. Nothing scores more points than letting everyone get busy baking in the kitchen. It will keep young ones from whining and older kids off the computer. Bonus: the house gets a little warmer and smells sweet. Don’t be afraid to use ready-made mixes. Simple equals less stress.
4. Hot Chocolate. Is there a more classic way to warm up after a cold day outside?
5. Breakfast for Dinner. Eggs, pancake mix, waffles and all your favorite breakfast food. The kids will love it, and best of all, it’s easy.
6. Meds, Lots of Them. You don’t want to be snowed in with a feverish child and an empty Tylenol bottle. Don’t forget the tissues either, toilet paper just does’t feel good.
7. S’mores. Let the marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers work some magic. There is just something special about sitting by the fire (or by your stove) at the end of a cold, dark winter day.
8. Play Music. Turn off the TV and kiddie shows and turn up your ipod. Have some fun.
9. Wine. Okay, maybe hot tea is more your thing, but have something on hand to help close out the day. Remember to take a little break to feel like your old self or at least a close approximation for a little while.
10. Slow down. See the day as an opportunity. Don’t fight the season. Enjoy the family time – they really do grow up fast.
Stay warm, happy winter!