It’s THAT time of year. You know, the time of year when you’ve had just about all you can take of winter and you start wishing for Spring.

It’s been cold here. Cold AND snowing. Today warmed up to 25 degrees so I decided to head out and take a couple photos.  I drove over by the lake and the wind cutting across there was too brutal for me. I snapped a few images and got right back in the car. Brrr….I’m not a fan of cold weather. However, that means that I spend a lot of time inside moping. I know I’m not alone when it comes to fighting the winter blues.

Here’s a short survival plan to help you this winter:

1. Learn A New Skill. Winter is the perfect time for skill building and you’re never too old to learn. I’m taking a virtual cooking class with The Stone Soup.  Look into what your local community college or YMCA offers for community classes.
2. Join A Community Club. If you have a YMCA near you check into joining. There is normally a pool and walking track which are both great options for winter entertainment.
3. Read A Book. Winter is a great time to catch up on your reading. Don’t have a book at home?? Stop by my used book store and pick up a few. 
4. Create Something. Its good for your soul. Catch up on your scrapbooks or start a scrapbook, complete a home decor project, knit. Do something. Need some ideas. Check out these blogs: Becky Higgins, Moda Bake Shop, Polka Dot Chair, 504 Main
5. Enjoy The Outdoors. I know its cold, but if you can dress warmly enough getting outside, even for short periods, can be beneficial. Go for a walk, snowshoe, ski, or just take the kids sledding.
6. Plan A Weekend Get-Away. Having something to look forward to can really help combat the blues. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Plan a weekend to a nearby city. Book a hotel with a pool and breakfast. Then look at local events happening the weekend you are visiting. My favorite tool for planning is Travelocity and TripAdvisor
7. Hand Write A Letter. Ahhh, this is one thing that the internet and text messaging has stolen from us. Not many people hand write letters anymore. Fix yourself a nice up of tea or coffee, find some pretty stationary, sit down at your desk and write letters to friends near and far. I LOVE getting a hand written letter in the mail. It’s a little surprise gift and I always appreciate it. I drop notes to friends that live nearby and notes to those that are far away. 
8. Buy Flowers. Put some pretty fresh flowers on your table. I found some lovely red tulips at the store and it was just enough to brighten an otherwise dreary day.