I’m a sun worshiper, I admit it. 95 degree days are merely balmy for me. I don’t have air conditioning, even here in Northern California. And if I did, I wouldn’t use it. Instead, I open the windows and doors and let the fresh air in. Winter, on the other hand, is just one gray cold day that blends into the next until the tulips and daffodils poke their green shoots through the ground – my signal that spring is on the way. Since spending winter in Maui or Cabo is not an option at this point, I have come up with ways to get through winter that make it fun, that celebrate the steps that get me to spring and that involve other people who act as my support through this time. If winter is as much a struggle for you as it is for me, perhaps these tips will help you survive as well.
· My brother in-law gave me a great bit of advice a few months ago. He said there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. While I do indeed believe there is bad weather, he is spot-on about the bad clothes. The winter temps make me extremely uncomfortable … and having the right clothes makes it bearable. Invest in thermals! I bought three thermal shirts, all different styles and weights, and one set of thermal pants. I layer them under my clothes, and the difference is amazing. Thick socks, gloves, scarves and hats are a welcome addition to my wardrobe. And the great thing about these accessories is that they are also fashionable, so not only are you warm, but you look pretty hot as well. · Plant spring bulbs. You will see these in your local nursery in late September, but I usually don’t buy mine until late November, so I don’t have to stick them in the refrigerator to wait for the temps to cool down. Also, there are much better prices later on because the nurseries want to clear out to use the space for holiday decor. Choose from crocus and tulips, daffodils, ranunculus and narcissus. I am filled with hope when I plant these little treasures. Being outside and digging into the earth is so satisfying, and knowing I am planting something that brings me joy as early as February makes it even more gratifying. · Be sure to entertain. Embrace the intimate atmosphere that nature has bestowed upon you. Light a fire, fill your home with candles, keep mulled wine simmering on the stove and invite friends over for a holiday open house, a spontaneous cocktail party or even a patio party, as long as you have heat lamps. If the universe is going to give us cold days, we might as well work with it, and entertaining helps keep your mind off the long dark days because you are enjoying the gift of social stimulation. · Celebrate Winter Solstice by throwing an impromptu BBQ. One year, we actually barbecued outside and served potato salad and enjoyed summer drinks. Even though Winter Solstice is the first day of winter, it also signals the longer days ahead and is a welcome to spring that is only three months away. This year, Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice are the same time so we are combining latkes with a solstice celebration. If I was in England, I could go dance in and around the stones of Stonehenge. · Decorate your home with outside colors of winter such as evergreens and wreaths or bowls of acorns or pine cones. Different traditions throughout history embrace the idea of enjoying ourselves as much as possible because it brings light back to our lives. Enjoying oneself in summer is easy, but winter takes more effort, so be sure to socialize, dance, go to plays, listen to music, get dressed up and stay out all night. · For you personally, use lotions and body sprays that smell like summer, with scents such as lavender and lilac or lemon and ginger. · Invite bright colors, such as yellow and aqua, into your home with the addition of pillows, throws and wall hangings, and fresh flowers are a no-brainer. · With so many nighttime hours readily available, take some time to learn the constellations. Put on a warm coat and hat and go outside and look at the stars. · Rent movies that celebrate winter holidays like When Harry Met Sally or Love Actually. · And lastly, find a good Irish coffee recipe. Nothing says comfort and warmth quite like this traditional winter drink.