'Tis still the season to be jolly! Find your inner joy with our winter weather survival guide.

By Amber Daley

Have the post-holiday blues got you down? Rather than bemoaning the cold, think of it as a time for pondering and reveling in a few simple pleasures. After reading our guide to surviving the season, you might even feel as Albert Camus did, who said, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”

Here at EM, we feel that wintertime is the best time to...

...take a road trip.
Even a day spent away from home can do much to rejuvenate a spirit made weary from holiday commotion. Get above the inversion, drive up to Bogus Basin and watch the sun set. If the schedule allows, rent a cabin or yurt in the woods and disconnect from the world for a few days.

...splurge.
Have you been saving a gift certificate for a massage? Use it. Have a little extra cash left over from the holidays? Think terrycloth robe, diamond bracelet or leather boots. Investing in something that will last years means that you'll be bound to spend less on items that only last a few months, at best. If on a budget, remember that excessive deprivation now often results in overindulgence later.

...give to those less fortunate.
The season for giving may seem to be over, but many area families are in need all year round. Did your company sponsor a family (or several) for Christmas? Kind words during hard times go a long way; Why not follow up with these individuals and let them know you're thinking of them? Or give the gift of your time by volunteering at a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen.

...curl up with a good book.
Getting antsy for spring? South Korean writer Kim Young-ha wrote in his book, I Have the Right to Destroy Myself, “Novels are food for the leftover hours of life, the in-between times, the moments of waiting.” So while waiting for warmer weather, immerse yourself in a great read and you'll be amazed at how fast the hours—and days—pass. Check out an old classic at the library or pick up a new mystery thriller at the bookstore.

… go beer tasting.
Whether your palette craves winter warmers or dark ales, it's a great time to sample the season's offerings on tap at local breweries and beer markets. You'll also be supporting a budding beer scene in our community. Who knows? You might even make new friends.

...take up a new winter sport.
Likely you've tried alpine skiing or snowboarding (and there are plenty of downhill opportunities in and around Idaho), but why not give cross-country skiing a shot? Head to the Bogus Basin ski area for lessons and rentals if you're a first-timer. Snowshoeing is also a great alternative to crowded runs. If seclusion is what you desire, prepare a sack lunch, grab a few buddies, head to Idaho City and explore the nearby network of trails on cross-country skis. For more information, including trail maps, visit www.bogusbasin.org and www.fs.fed.us.

...make a quilt.
If the sight of geometric shapes of floral fabric is enough to make you cringe, it's time to reassess this art form. Quilt making is a centuries-old craft that dates back to Europe, Russia and Ancient Egypt. More traditional designs may not be your style, but hip, modern quilts can be made out of old clothes, including jeans or t-shirts. Find resources and patterns at www.straw.com/quilting/articles/bluejeans.html.

...cuddle with the one(s) you love.
Need we say more?

...sip on something warm.
Coffee houses know that pumpkin spice and egg nog make every espresso twice as nice. Whether it's tea, apple cider or a peppermint mocha you crave, there's a signature drink for everyone.

...reflect.
Cold weather may drive us indoors, but this time of year provides ideal opportunities for introspection. The late Buddhist teacher Ayya Khema once said, “If the whole universe can be found in our own body and mind, this is where we need to make our inquires. We all have the answers within ourselves.” Why not begin keeping a journal? In it you may record experiences, pen deep thoughts or write down your goals. It might be just the year to create a bucket list.
 

…make a fashion statement.
If your standby black pea-coat has seen better days, it's time to dig out that burgundy trench and rock a new trend. Or embrace your quirky style with those knee-high argyle socks you've never had the gumption to wear in public. Heck, why not go an extra mile and throw an ugly sweater party? Make 2012 all about redefining your look and shopping trips will become much more fun.

...pamper yourself.
Devote one hour per day to self-care, whether it's drawing a candlelit bath or engaging in a post-workout stretching session. Even if you decide to lounge just an hour longer in your pajamas or take a mid-afternoon nap, both body and mind will thank you.

…learn to knit or crochet.
There are few things more gratifying that wearing an item of clothing you've made yourself. Evenings spent fireside, while watching a movie with the family, are great times to perfect your stitches. Before long, you'll have a wearable pair of slippers or a colorful scarf. And this pastime isn't just for the ladies; plenty of men have a knack for needlework that would put grandma to shame. Visit www.knittinghelp.com for how-tos and instructional videos.

...take care of your body.
If you're not currently on a regular exercise regimen, then now is the time. Are you curious about this CrossFit training program everyone's talking about? Maybe you've always wanted to try hot yoga. Whatever your style—intense exertion or therapeutic workout—there's a fitness plan for everyone.

...indulge.
Health nuts acknowledge that certain kinds of fats are actually good for you. And while too much of a good thing can be a bad thing, moderate servings of comfort food (hearty chilis, savory soups, whole grain breads and pastas) are a part of what make the colder weather so darn...comforting.

...adopt (and snuggle with) a pet.
If the household budget allows, why not consider bringing a furry friend into the family? The Idaho Humane Society is a well-known resource, but don't forget to look to Simply Cats and Northwest Animal Companions (NAC), too. Find them on the web at www.idahohumanesociety.org, www.simplycats.org and www.nacrescue.org.

Sidebar:
The EM staff dishes on their favorite winter indulgences.

“My guilty winter pleasure is tanning. I've never been somebody who generally needs sunlight to stay upbeat, but lately I've found that it has a calming effect that soothes my nerves.”
-Mike Johnson, managing editor

“Come colder weather, I revel in jazz music: Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Etta James—I love it all. This year, two of my favorites are Melody Gardot and Madeleine Peyroux.”
-Amber Daley, writer

“The smell and taste of Swiss Miss classic hot chocolate. I have wonderful memories of one-on-one time with my mother, and with my child now. Prefect little treat.”
-Tia Markland-Crabtree, publisher

“Hmmmmm...slippers.”
-GiGi LeGault

“Every winter I buy something in cashmere: a sweater, scarf, socks, etc., just because I love the feeling of good cashmere. It's a treat! I could also say hot chocolate with the little marshmallows but the colorful ones are a must-have because they make me happy floating in my yummy chocolate.”
-Jenny Eidenbrook, writer

“After a long, cold day snowboarding, I love to indulge in a "Snuggler". This Mint Peppermint Schnapps and hot chocolate treat brings the warmth back to my cheeks and the tingle to my toes.”
Pamela Hoevel, writer