Five Things That Are Helping Me Endure (and Even Enjoy) Winter

Sometimes I can't believe that when I was ten years old I said that winter was my favorite season. Was it really? Or was it simply because it held Christmas and my birthday and because I found falling snow to be absolutely magical (even though in northeastern Colorado, it usually came down sideways)?

Whether it truly was or wasn't, it isn't my favorite anymore. In fact, I find myself enduring a lot more than enjoying these cold months, even during a mild winter like the one we're experiencing this year (it's because mild temperatures don't make it any lighter at 5:30pm).

But I don't want to just be enduring four months out of every year. That's a third of my life! So here are five things that are helping me get through, and yes even enjoy, these months.

1. My portable heater

I own two of them. Being able to have warm air on command does wonders for my spirits. I turn it on, tuck my feet beside it (or stick my face in front of it), and relish the comforting warmth. I know it's not the same as soaking up the heat of the sun, but I'll take it.

2. Our carport

When we bought our house, Mike was pretty disappointed that it only had a carport, not a garage (and he immediately set about making plans for how he could add one . . . eventually). But me? I love our carport. Love, love, love it. It has made my life so much easier. Our car stays dry, free of frost, and is a mere three steps from our door. It has cut down significantly on my morning prep time and stress level. Sometimes I don't even make the three kids who are not going to school put on shoes because they don't have to make a trek out to a frozen car parked on the street.

3. Boots

We have not had a lot of snow this winter (as you can see from the above picture), but I still find myself grabbing my boots as my footwear of choice. Mike got them for me last winter. I don't even know what brand they are. I just know that they are soft and warm and very comfortable. I probably won't stop wearing them until I can trade them out for flip flops.

4. Books about ice, cold, and snow

In January 2013 I read Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow. Last winter, I read The Long Winter and Breadcrumbs. This year, I read Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage. I guess it has now become something of a tradition to read about cold during the winter months, and for some reason, it makes me feel so much better. I think it's because when I read about the extreme weather that other people (fictional or not) faced, I realize that my lot is pretty darn good, and I feel so much more grateful for the little comforts (like portable heaters!).


5. A robe

(Old Navy)

Before Clark was born, I made a few changes to the hospital bag I'd packed with the other three. For example, I brought real clothes to wear during my stay instead of the lovely hospital gowns provided. I can't even tell you what a tremendous difference it made to the way I felt immediately postpartum. One of the other things I brought with me was a robe because I'd heard from several sources how nice and warm and comfortable it made them feel. And so I went out to Old Navy and bought one (I think even at full price--very unusual). But then . . . Clark was born on an unseasonably hot May day, and I didn't feel like wearing any layers, and I was feeling a little guilty about my purchase. But fast forward to October when I pulled the robe back out, wrapped myself in it, and I'm not sure if I've taken it off in the months since. I've remarked to Mike on more than one occasion how that might just be one of the best purchases I've ever made (I think he's a tad jealous he didn't give it to me himself).

Today happens to be an absolutely beautiful February day, and even if that means Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, I hope it's still a sign that spring is just around the corner. I'm linking up at Modern Mrs. Darcy today where lots of people are sharing the things that are making them happy this winter. What things are saving YOU?