Is it just me, or does it seem like winter is never-ending? Anyone else dreaming of warm weather, cold drinks, longer days, campfires and flip flops?
Well, if you are feeling down, and you are tired of all things winter, I have a few ideas to help you bust through those February blues.
One simple way to change the regular routine is to make a few modifications to your nightly dinner menu. Winter tends to get me in a “comfort food” rut, so trying a few new ideas this time of year is a fantastic way to break up dinner time boredom. Don’t get me wrong, I love meat and potatoes, soups, and pasta dishes, but introducing a few lighter options as we head into spring is great. I love the idea of trying a “meatless Monday,” serving breakfast for supper, and/or letting the kids select a new recipe online or from a cookbook.
Adding some fresh elements to your décor is also a lovely way to brighten up a space, and your family’s mood. Re-arranging furniture, changing a paint colour, framing and hanging vacation photos, and adding inexpensive throw pillows and fresh accents are fantastic options.
Recently, I crafted a new felt wreath for my door. I used a metal ring wrapped in twine and handmade blue and yellow flowers to create a cheerful and inexpensive addition to my home. The cheerful colours instantly lifted my mood.
Challenging yourself (and your kids) to try something new is another wonderful idea. Head to the library or surf the web for inspiration. Kids and adults can step outside their routine and comfort zone by attempting a new activity or learning a new skill. I love the idea of learning to cook or bake a new type of food, figuring out how to craft or sew something, or undertaking a new sport or activity. Each family member can try their own activity, or the family can try something new together.
Daydreaming about spring and summer is also fun for families. It’s never too early to start planning warm weather sports and vacations. Looking forward to something in the weeks and months ahead can be a real mood booster.
Embracing “today” is a wonderful option too. I absolutely adore the idea of planning a February family celebration. There is no reason to wait for a holiday, you can totally make up an occasion to celebrate. In the past, my family has baked and decorated a cake in order to celebrate a stuffed animal’s birthday… so, really, anything goes!
Some ideas for simple (made up) celebrations include: “we made it to the weekend movie night,” “random acts of kindness day,” “kids pick the meals day,” and “turn off electronics and play board games and read day.”
Warmer weather is just around the corner, and we’ll be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and Easter soon. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy some of these simple ideas for beating the February blues. Think outside the box, celebrate the little things, and surround yourself with people and things you love.
Gina Bell is a writer, content creator, mom of three and lover of all things Christmas. She lives in Antigonish, N.S., with her husband and three sons and is constantly on the lookout for easy, inexpensive ways to make magical memories with her family. Follow her adventures at EastCoastMommy.com.
