It snowed here again last night. That makes 96 inches for the season so far.
When the snow started falling in December it was beautiful, and we all went out and frolicked in it. Now every time another flake falls we want to hunt Mother Nature down and tar and feather her. We’re tired of shoveling snow and being stuck inside. Even the kids are getting board with playing in the snow. Spring seems so close, but still so far away. A long, harsh winter like this really can get you down.
If you have cabin fever or the winter blues here are my best tips for getting through the rest of season.
1. Bring spring inside with forced bulbs like hyacinths, tulips and daffodils. You can usually pick these up in the fresh flower section of your grocery store this time of year.. The hyacinth is my favorite because it has a lovely, cheerful smell. The purple ones are the most fragrant.
2. If it’s too cold to go outside, we had minus 20 degree wind chills here this winter, or if the kids are tired of sledding visit an indoor play place. We have several near us, everything from an indoor jungle gym to a trampoline gym to places filled with bounce houses and inflatable slides. Look around and see what’s in your area.
3. If you want to warm up, head to your local botanical garden. It’s always warm and tropical inside, and many have special programs for kids to enjoy.
4. You can’t go to the beach, but you can spend the day at an indoor water park. It’s always around 82 degrees inside. If you don’t have an indoor water park near by consider checking into a local hotel with an indoor pool for a night. If you’re looking for an inexpensive option check into open swimming times at the school pool.
5. Visit a local hot tub garden where you can rent a private hot tub for an hour or two. Many of them welcome children, so if you’re not looking for quiet time bring the whole family along to thaw out.
6. This may seem like bad advice if you’re sick of winter, but go outside. Especially if you’re lucky enough to have a sunny winter day. Try taking a winter hike in the woods or light a bonfire and roast marshmallows in the backyard. Why wait until summer for ‘Smores?
7. Open your curtains, even if the sun isn’t shinning. You might want to shut out the snow and gray sky, but give it a try. You’ll feel less like you’re living in a cave.
8.Try light therapy. Many spas offer different types of light therapy that are supposed to make your skin look younger. I don’t know if that’s true, but extra exposure to light can elevate your mood in the winter. The therapy is done in something that looks similar to a tanning bed, but without the harmful UV rays.
9. Start planning your summer vacation now. It always helps to have something to look forward too.
10. I’m a big believer in retail therapy. Go shopping for new sandals or some other warm weather wardrobe item.
It’s only 29 days until spring. The snow will melt someday. Hang in there!
And #11… Move to Florida! 😉
I like your list. And I agree with retail therapy. That tends to help me out a lot. Target is a wonderful place..
We live in the Ohio where the weather is very temperamental. I was so excited to be outside without a jacket while the kids splashed in puddles yesterday. Today we dropped back below freezing and I was mad. I think I am going to need these tips very much.