Everyone from the Midwest has a different definition of cold than the rest of the continental U.S. We know how to strive in -20 degree weather. While most just might accept their fate when the temps drop below zero, Midwesterners pull on some snow pants and layer up in long johns. Nothing is going to stop them from work, school, or just going out and having fun. Here are a few tips and tricks to survive the snowy UP winters.
Layers are your friends.
Sometimes I'll go outside wearing two shirts, a hoodie, a jacket, a pair of long johns, jeans, wool socks and snow boots and I'll still get chilly if I stay out too long. While that may seem excessive, trust me when I say you never fully understand layering until you under layer before heading to class. Everyone is different when it comes to layering so you just got to find what works for you. Some people like hats and gloves, personally, I do not. If you think you have too much on, you probably don't and you can always take something off and put it in your bag.
Hibernation is key.
During the winter I am always more sleepy and constantly want to sleep. Sometimes, I wish I was a bear so I could sleep all winter and be ready to go when spring rolls around. Sleeping helps past time on the extra cold days where you are stuck inside. I have yet to meet a college student who doesn't like to take a nap. During the winter, I try and avoid early morning classes because I know I'll have a hard time leaving the warmth and comfort of my bed. On days I don't have class, I barely leave my room unless absolutely necessary.
Three feet of snow? More like three feet of cushioning to catch you.
You know that moment when you are peacefully trekking through the snow to class, simply minding your own business. Then it happens! It starts with a slight slip of the foot, then the other foot and next thing you know you can't find your balance and you are going down, I'm yelling timber! Now I have taken a few of these tumbles before but luckily, I had some snow there to catch me. The snow banks have definitely stopped me from breaking a wrist or two so I am very thankful for them.
Snowplows are a gift from God.
While it may not seem like it when the glorious sound of the plow wakes you up at six in the morning, the benefit of not having to drive through a foot of snow outweighs the bad. So next time you see your friendly neighborhood snow plower, go and thank them, maybe bring them some hot cocoa. They are people just like you and me.
Sometimes all you can do is pray for a snow day.
So the weather has predicted a 85 percent chance of snow and now all you can do is hope the snow comes early enough that the school cancels classes for the day. Some people have a certain ritual that they swear by. Maybe wearing a wet sock on your right foot really does cause snow days to happen. Personally, I don't care how we get them, I just care that we get them.
The penguin waddle is really a thing.
This was something I used to do when I was little and when I was drying off after a nice swim. I would wrap a towel really tight around my legs and waddle around like a penguin. I also do this at times when it is extra icy outside. The best method, I have discovered, is to square your feet up to your shoulder, barely lift your feet and just shuffle all the way to class. You may think you look dumb but it is better than falling in front of a bunch of people.
Take as few trips to the store as possible.
You may think you are an expert at driving in the snow but you aren't. I understand we all need groceries and other things to survive, but we can work to plan it so we get everything in one single store. If you forget something, then it obviously was not that important and can wait until next week. If you know the weather is going to be bad, then plan your trip for a different time. Don't risk your life for a couple of eggs and some milk. Too many good people have gotten hurt from accidents that could have been prevented.
Take advantages of any days the sun is out.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D) and cabin fever are really things that affect college kids all over the country. The lack of vitamin D and the stress of class really messes with our heads. When it is sunny outside, you should go out and literally soak it all in. Even if it is just for 30 minutes, it will still be very helpful. Go for a walk or go snowshoeing. Just get outside! Not only will the fresh air and physical activity make you feel better, the sunshine will drastically improve your mood. Some schools that are located in areas with low sun exposure have these special lamps that provide you help decrease S.A.D. and cabin fever. Don't waste a sunny day sitting inside watching Netflix. Go out and explore.
Always be prepared.
I was never in Boy Scouts, mainly because I am a girl, but I was also never in Girl Scouts. Anyways, I still know the first rule of Boy Scouts is to always be prepared. In the U.P., you never know what may happen. One day it could be sunny and 30 degrees and the next day there could be a blizzard and a wind chill of -30 degrees. You need to be prepared for whatever weather there might be. Keep extra layers in your bag and make sure you have gloves and a hat with you at all time. If you drive, keep water, snacks, and blankets in case you get stuck waiting for someone to help you. Cat litter really helps with tire traction and make sure you have flares or reflector lights so if something does happen, people can see your car. Lastly, make sure someone knows where you are so if you don't show up after a while they can call someone.
Don't go outside.
Just don't do it, you will regret it. The only time I would suggest going outside is when you have class, a sunny day, and if there is an emergency. Otherwise, just stay snuggled up under your warm blankets and catch up on some homework. Who are we kidding? I really mean binge watch Netflix. So just remember, if it is sunny then go outside, if it is not sunny then don't go outside. It is really quite simple.
