I woke up on Sunday and my iPhone informed me that it was 7 degrees. After going through the five stages of grief (mostly shock, denial, anger, and depression), I realized that if I didn’t find a way to embrace winter, I’d never make it through the next two months. I am a winter-hater. I start dreading the season in early November and start wearing wool tights underneath my pants around Thanksgiving. When December hits, I sport more layers than a wedding cake. This year, I am able to vocalize my feelings with new gloves from Urban Outfitters that oh-so articulately state — “Winter Blows.”
However, since I chose to go to school in New England, I am forced to deal with a 4-5 month winter and because I am supposed to graduate in May–I can’t exactly hibernate all winter (though during the weekend-bets are off!) Even I can’t deny that winter has a few saving graces, and putting all seasonal distaste aside, I have come up with 7 reasons to embrace the winter–even for us grinches of the season. Stay warm!
Remember when you were a kid and waited anxiously for the television reporter to announce that school was canceled? Though snow days are much more rare for college students, they are about 10,000 times as exciting. Just because you’ve outgrown your onesie snow suit doesn’t mean you can’t build a snowman on the Boston Common, sled down Mission Hill, or start a snowball fight in Stetson Quad. Enjoy your last years of opportunity for snow days — unless you become a teacher, it’s unlikely you’ll get them in the future.
2. Hibernating
One of the great things about the cold is that it allows you the opportunity to stay indoors all day without appearing overly lazy. Hibernating is an essential part of winter-just look at our furry bear friends. Use this time to finish The Hunger Games, spend the day watching chick flicks, eating cookies with your roommates, or trying out that new chicken soup recipe you found online. Unlike other seasons, you won’t have to feel guilty about wasting a beautiful day, because when the weather drops below 20 degrees, you have every right to stay under the covers!
3. Winter Food
I use winter as an excuse to pack on some hibernation pounds. Underneath those layers, they’re barely noticeable and though it’s not scientifically proven that it keeps me warmer, I’m convinced it helps. Luckily, I love winter foods like kale, root vegetables, and warm soups. My roommates and I have been spending most of our time over hot stoves, making soups and freezing them for cold, lazy days. Snow days and cold days spent at home are perfect for making a batch of meatballs, a winter stew, a roasted chicken, or anything else that will heat up both your kitchen and body.
4. Warm Drinks
When I venture out in the winter weather, I use hot drink stops as an excuse to break up the day and indulge in my favorite winter beverages. Hot chocolate is a nice diversion from your regular coffee break; always say “yes” to whipped cream. Stock up on the powdered version in your house, or bravely wander to L.A. Burdick Chocolate in Harvard Square for one of the best cups of hot cocoa you’ve ever had. Hot apple cider is another delicious autumn/winter treat — and if you’re 21, a dash of rum helps you stay even warmer!
5. Layering and Accessorizing
Some people look adorable all layered up in hats, scarves, tights and leg warmers. I am not one of them, but I appreciate and envy those who can pull of earmuffs and a puffy jacket without looking like the Abominable Snowman. Winter does give you an opportunity to look cute in layers and try new looks. Not usually a hat person? You have to wear one to survive, so why not test out a few different options? Are you a scarf collector? Now is the time to put them to use. This blog by a UGA Her Campus writer offers layering advice for every occasion.
The Frog Pond on the Boston Common is open until mid-March, a true testament to the long Boston winter. Ice skating is one of those things that you could do year round if you do it inside, but it’s much more fun (read: romantic) to ice skate outside on the Common or Kendall Square. It doesn’t matter if you are a Michelle Kwan in training or can barely stay vertical, ice skating really is one of those “fun for all ages and talents” kind of activities. Tuesday student nights at the Frog Pond mean admission is just $2. Winter also means skiing and snowboarding season. Hit the trails and embrace your inner ski bunny by going on trips with the NU Downhilers Ski Club. Or if you don’t want to strap yourself to board and fly down the mountain, snow tubing is a milder alternative.
7. The Thought of Spring Just Around the Corner
For me, the best part of winter is the end, seeing the frozen city (and the icy attitudes of its residents) thaw and knowing that in just a few weeks I’ll see flowers and birds. There is a collective sigh of relief when the world’s rebirth occurs, and winter is one step closer to spring. Along with season change comes the spring fashion cycle-pastels, skirts that can be worn without tights, and opened-toed shoes. So keep holding out hope! Though there are some great things about winter, it’s helpful to know that in a few months we can swap our down jackets for light cardigans, and memories of 7 degree days can be filed under “things to ignore until next year.”