Hey there, fellow winter skeptics! Are you someone who sees snowflakes falling and immediately starts dreaming of tropical beaches? Well, fear not! Winter might not be your go-to season, but let me share a few reasons why it can be an unexpectedly fun and cozy time of the year. I am mostly writing this blog post for myself. Right now, there is a lot of snow outside and it is cold. I am trying to stay positive. But I wanted to share this with you as well, because I have the feeling I am not the only one who prefers the warmer seasons. So hopefully, this blog post will also help you to stay positive and maybe even you start to learn how to enjoy winter.
How to Enjoy Winter
Warm Blankets and Comfy Clothes: Let’s start with the basics – winter is the ultimate excuse to bundle up in your coziest blankets and rock that oversized sweater you’ve been hiding in the back of your closet. Embrace the snug life, my friends! It is the perfect excuse to start shopping for warmer items like blankets and sweaters. I honestly love using blankets on the couch or when I am sitting in my chair. It makes it a lot more cozy. And warmer clothing items don’t have to look ugly. Use Pinterest to find some inspiration to look comfy and warm while still looking hot.
Hot Chocolate Heaven: Who can resist the allure of a steaming cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows? Winter is the time to indulge your taste buds with this liquid bliss. Bonus points if you enjoy it by the fireplace, wrapped up like a burrito. Is there anything better than coming home from a long walk or work/school day and drinking some hot chocolate? I think not. Also, tea is a great way to warm yourself up once you get home again.
Netflix and Chill Takes on a Whole New Meaning: While summer might be for outdoor activities, winter is the season to become a master at binge-watching. Catch up on all the shows and movies you’ve been neglecting and turn your living room into the ultimate cozy cave. Put blankets on the couch, put some snacks on the table, hot chocolate, and have a movie night with your friends. And on a snowy day, binge-watch your favorite new series.
Winter Sports: Admittedly, winter sports might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s a certain thrill to trying something new. Whether it’s ice skating, skiing, or snowboarding, give it a shot – you might discover a hidden talent! There are even certain things you can do inside. You don’t have to travel to a country where you can enjoy winter sports. Find an ice rink and have a hot chocolate when you’re done.
The Joy of Comfort Food: Winter is the perfect excuse to indulge in hearty, comfort foods. From soups and stews to casseroles and pies, the colder months are tailor-made for satisfying your taste buds with warm, delicious meals. Here in the Netherlands, we basically eat mashed potatoes mixed with veggies (carrots/onions, kale, or endive) all the time during the colder months. Those are the perfect meals to stay warm and get cozy.
Fireside Chats: There’s something magical about gathering around a fireplace, sharing stories, and sipping on a warm beverage. Whether it’s with family or friends, winter nights by the fire create memories that are sure to warm your heart. And if you don’t have a fireplace, you can easily find a fake fireplace video on Netflix or YouTube. It might not be the same, but it is better than nothing.
Magical Winter Scenery: Snow-covered landscapes have a unique charm that can’t be denied. The world transforms into a winter wonderland, and if you can look past the chilly temperatures, you’ll find beauty in the glistening snow and frost-kissed trees. Take photos when you are outside. The lighting in a winter wonderland is always really good. And even I can appreciate how beautiful the world looks when it is covered in snow.
Cozy Reading Nooks: Winter is the ideal time to get lost in a good book. Create a cozy reading nook with soft blankets, a plush chair, and a hot cup of tea. Transport yourself to different worlds without ever leaving the comfort of your home. It is the perfect moment to read the books you’ve always wanted to read. During the summer, you probably want to go out and do other things outside. So winter is the perfect season to get some reading done.
Cuddling Weather: Winter practically demands snuggling up with your favorite person – be it a partner, pet, or even a giant stuffed animal. The colder temperatures make cuddling a must, and who can argue with that?
So, there you have it, winter skeptics – a few reasons why the colder months can be surprisingly enjoyable. Embrace the season, find your winter groove, and remember, there’s a certain magic in the chill! And remember, we can’t change the weather, so it is better to embrace it and make the most of it.