Winter rolls around every year accompanied by the same groans and complaints. People unwillingly prepare for the cold weather, the snow and ice covered roads and essentially being locked inside for nearly three months. However, if you are like me, this is the time of the year that you look forward to the most. Yes, everyone loves when the holidays are approaching, but after the holidays pass the cheer and happiness quickly fades. But in my opinion this should be one of the happiest times of the year.
To begin, it is the start of a new year. A time to embrace new things and open your mind to new possibilities. While New Year’s Eve may be one of the most overrated holidays (in my opinion), being able to start with a clean slate is so refreshing. I love bundling up next to a fire and taking time to reflect on the previous year. It is a great time to turn your attention back to yourself and to what you hope to accomplish during the next 12 months. I feel this is the time I can really concentrate on bettering myself, whether that’s simply picking up a book I’ve been meaning read, or setting long-term, ambitious goals.
In addition to being able to spend time bundled up inside, there are so many things that you can do to get out of the house, as well. During the holidays my family and I spend time driving around and looking at all of the holiday lights. It’s simple and many may think that it sounds uneventful, but it is great quality time with the family. And when quality time is limited due to both my brother and me being away at different universities, I appreciate every opportunity I get.
Another great activity that winter brings is skiing and snowboarding. Packing up all of my winter gear and heading to the slopes is an excitement unlike any other. You know you are going to get to spend an entire day on the snow and you get to anticipate that you’re going to be going home with tired legs, a wind burnt face and probably some embarrassing stories (everyone face plants at least once, right?) I have found that spending time on the slopes is a great way to relax while being active and spending time with friends.
Also, have I mentioned football? Yes, I am aware that this sport starts in the fall, but it lasts long into the winter. Cold, winter Sundays are my favorite days. When at home, my dad and I can and will watch football nearly all day. When at school, I make sure to find a way to at least catch the Packers play. By the time the Super Bowl comes and goes you can guarantee that I will already be going through football withdrawal, as so many do each year.
Finally, winter is just generally a beautiful time of the year. The bare trees, crisp air, and snow (when it actually decides to snow) are among my favorite things. So, while most people are excited that the groundhog saw his shadow, you can find me trying to soak in this last bit of winter. And, knowing Ohio weather, there is the possibility that we will still have six-plus weeks of it! Fingers crossed!
