It's a new year...now what? Once I get through the holidays, I dread the dreary, cold days of January and February. If you are anything like me, you need inspiration, motivation, and a bit of strategy to keep your head up. I don't like wasting time and energy on things I can't control, so I try to find fun things to do for myself and others as well as productive activities around the house... Here are a few to consider:
Clean out your garage: Before you know it, you will be looking for your garden tools and fertilizer...organize it into bins to get ready for the growing season.
Get fresh air: It's not crazy cold EVERY day...use an hour to get some air and exercise. I like to go for walks on new streets in my area and look at the houses, landscaping, etc...
Go somewhere new: OK...does Detroit count? I am heading there for a work trip. Detroit in January? Well, it's a city I have never been too and Im looking forward to seeing if I survive...stay tuned! It gets me out of my "norm" and I get to try something new.
Organize your photos: We ALL took tons of pics in December. Why not use the "unlimited prints" deal at www.shutterfly.com right now and send some to your parents, etc... My mom can appreciate the computer and I-Phone, but likes to have hard-copies!
Make a plan for the future: ALWAYS good to have something to look forward to! If you cant afford a trip, think about having a mid-winter party, Super Bowl party,, etc... It helps you focus on something and get excited to see friends. One year I did a "Newlyweds" game night with some married friends...It was hilarious!
READ: I always think this sounds GREAT, but never take the time to actually do it. One snowy weekend, just stay in your sweats, turn on the fireplace, and read a good book!
Volunteer: There are organizations who could use an extra set of hands in the winter. Think about donating some time to help others. I spend my time with college students, which keeps me young and busy cooking!
See a movie during the day: It's cheaper and fun to sit in an "almost" empty theater to enjoy a matinee. If Im not spending a bunch of $$$, I feel free to see something Im not sure Im going to like without guilt. I like the theater seats at Flatirons Crossing...comfy and the same price for every ticket.
Meet a neighbor: Ask someone out for coffee and get to know your neighbors! It's a finite amount of time, so if it isn't a good match, you know its only an hour. I am enjoying the "Nextdoor" app, which helps you see what's happening in your own neighborhood . Last week I read that there was a mountain lion a block from my house...good stuff, but be sure you DONT let them access your notifications! Too much information!
Netflix and chill: THIS from my younger friends...Right now I am working my way through "Grey's Anatomy" after the recommendation from my niece and subsequent horror that I had never watched it.
It's January 4th and psychologically I have 2 months until I "know Spring is coming"...I plan to take my own advice!
Happy Winter!
CoffeeTalkMom
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