I don't know about you, but this is the hardest time of year for me. The excitement of the holidays has died down and the days are short and cold (especially if you live anywhere in the north). If you're like my mom, you relish the snow and embrace the seasonal variety, but the rest of use might be ready to metaphorically claw our eyes out from being cooped up inside trying to avoid the cold. So for those of us not fortunate enough to be enroute to a tropical vacation right now, here are a few ways to stay sane during the hardest months of winter.
1. Read a Good Book or Two (or Ten)
There's nothing like cozying up under a blanket with a good book when it's cold. I get my best reading done in the winter because there's nothing tempting me enough to brave the cold and leave the house on the weekend (#introvertproblems). Bonus if you have a fireplace you can curl up next to.
2. Redecorate/Declutter/Hang New Art
It might be gray and dreary when you look out the window, but that doesn't mean it has to be that way indoors. A little home refresh is great for brightening up your surroundings and bringing a little sunshine into those dark days. Try re-arranging pictures or adding new wall art. And it might be a little early for spring cleaning, but there's never a wrong time to declutter and simplify your space a little.
**GIVEAWAY CLOSED See that peacock feather painting below? Comment on this post and make sure you're subscribed on the home page of Birds and Berry Studio for a chance to win it***
3. Write a Letter
The days are shorter and everything moves a little slower in the winter. Why not embrace the slower pace and write an old fashioned letter. Send a little happy mail to someone to brighten their day.
4. Start a New Project
Shake off the winter slump by starting a new project or trying something new. Maybe you tackle some new recipes or make over an old piece of furniture. I like to start some new painting projects and brainstorm ideas for new artwork.
5. Make Comfort Food
Chicken noodle soup and meatloaf just aren't as comforting on those hot summer days. Nobody wants to slave over a hot stove in 80 degree weather, but it's perfect for cozy nights indoors.
6. Warm Beverages
I know, this sounds like a repeat of comfort food, but just think of all the delicious winter drinks there are. You can make an event out of making spiced cider or tea, or even creating a hot chocolate bar. And it's a perfect way to warm up when you come in from the cold.
7. Take a Walk in the Snow
Now that we live in a cold weather climate, my wise husband always reminds me that it's all about dressing for the weather. I have learned to embrace layering and winter accessories and amazingly I actually enjoy taking a walk in the snow.
8. Embrace the Cozy
It might seem to drag on forever, but when winter is finally over a little part of use will be missing the coziness of a warm blanket and a hot cup of tea. Embrace the fact that is still feels good to hunker down into a couch filled with throw pillows and blankets on a wintery night.
And if all else fails, purchase that plane ticket and get the heck out of there.
I'd love to hear if you embrace winter or just survive and if you have any ideas for staving off cabin fever. Leave me a comment below and subscribe to my site and you'll have a chance to win some new art to brighten your walls! (UPDATE - GIVEAWAY CLOSED) Happy winter!
