Ah, those colder months that we always look forward to with trepidation! Once the reality of packing up the barbeque and saying goodbye to lazy days at the lake sets in, we give winter a cold hard stare – as cold and as frosty as the coming weather. But… what if it didn’t have to be this way?
Let’s face it, between the temperature drop and the isolating conditions of the pandemic, it doesn’t seem like there is much to look forward to this winter, but let’s tweak that mindset. We’ve spent so much time running from one activity to the next, doing long work commutes, and getting kids to their after school activities that we are ignoring a big opportunity to really indulge in some quality downtime this winter. Several Albertans have a plan on how they are going to spend the next few months. Let’s take a peek and get inspired by their ideas.
Theresa, a municipal office worker, mother, and photography enthusiast in western Alberta says, "My favourite part about winter is exploring new places. The frozen ground makes the places we already know and love seem new, different, and exciting again. Besides, there are some places that are best accessed by tromping over the snow on skis or snowshoes. Magical places like fields glistening like diamonds when the sun reflects off the snow, or large trees covered in frost contrasting with brightly colored songbirds. Winter is cold but when you see it through seasonal eyes, or through the lens of a camera, winter can be magical too.”
Paula, a grandmother and community advocate in rural Alberta, looks forward to doing puzzles. She says, “I only do puzzles in the winter. There are so many good ones. The other thing I do are crafts from Pinterest. I buy the stuff in the summer, usually on sale, and then store them until the frost is here. This year I'm making hoop heirlooms, painted peg dolls, and nature boards.” She also describers what her husband, affectionally called Papa by the grandchildren, likes to enjoy. “Papa loves his fireplace. Nothing is better than your favorite coffee by a cozy fire.”
Jessi, an art director in southern Alberta notes, "I love going out for walks on beautiful winter days to enjoy the fresh crisp air and sunshine. I also love heading out to the mountains to enjoy a day of snowboarding at our favourite resort followed by some après ski in the lodge and maybe a little hot tubbing with my friends!"
Albertans, much like the soup we consume during the winter months, are made from hearty stock. Don’t let the social gathering restrictions and temperature dips get you down. We are all going to get through this winter and we can do it while enjoying the snow, taking pictures, going for walks, hitting the slopes, learning new crafts, or just cozying up to the fireplace. We’ve got this.
