I'm going to pretend for a minute that I'm well-rounded and tell you about something other than ballroom dancing. Ridiculous, I know.
Last year, I read about this crazy Norwegian custom of "koselig" where you, instead of lamenting the dark days of winter in these northern climes, you relish them as time to cozy up to your fireplace (whether real or streamed via Netflix) and drink warm beverages (whether alcoholic or not) and light candles and read books and eat cookies.
If this sounds like your typical Tuesday night, then by all means, stop reading.
But there was also a social and athletic aspect to this concept that made it seem less like a regular night in. Like, skiing or snowshoeing with friends, and then doing the candles, drinks, and treats. You know, some Vitamin D, endorphins, camaraderie and then food.
If you didn't think I was into this idea, you would be wrong.
Hypothesis: by gearing up beforehand for a cozy, feel-good winter using the koselig mind-set, the early nights and lack of sunlight wouldn't take their usual toll on my generally jolly personality.
Testing: after stocking up on candles (thanks, IKEA), a reading list, plenty of tea and snacks, a well-rounded meal plan, and a wardrobe of fuzzy layers, I tucked in.
Any time I'm home and the sun's not shining, I light up candles.
I spend about 15- 30 minutes in the morning and evening reading, curled in blankets, usually listening to super-chill music (what's up, Bon Iver), and drinking tea. Yes, TEA.
Dinner's are pretty comfort-food-based: crockpot stews, chili, Indian food, pad thai, etc.
Outside activities with friends are mostly walks to the library with my entourage (because I gotta work with what I got), but sledding and ice skating are still on the list (let's face it, we're only halfway to spring).
Analysis of data: winter is awesome. Don't get me wrong, I can't wait until summer. But looking forward to some quality time in the cold months made a big difference in my enjoyment of the season. IMAGINE THAT.
