Hello, Winter
Winter is here—or at least knocking on the door—and with it comes short days, chilly weather, and a need for some serious motivation. But this year, we’re not letting the winter blahs get the best of us. Instead, we’re leaning into the season with a mix of Christmas cheer, purposeful preparation, and a little rebellion against the gloom.
Embracing the Season
This weekend, the weather made sure we knew winter was coming. Rain poured for two days straight, and when it finally stopped, the wind took over. We could have let it dampen our spirits, but we decided to ignore it. We started our day with the fireplace crackling—nothing warms the soul quite like that—and when the rain eased up, we ventured outside for some yard work.
Sure, it wasn’t ideal weather, but there’s something empowering about defying the elements. We spread mulch, tidied the yard, and got the dogs out for some fresh air before the downpour sent us back inside. Once there, it was all systems go on Christmas preparations.
The Magic of Change
For me, Christmas has always been more than a holiday. It’s a transitional time—a chance to reflect on the past and prepare for the future. This year, that preparation has been both emotional and practical.
One example? Letting go of things I don’t need anymore. I’ve been a “box hoarder” for years, holding onto the original packaging for TVs and monitors in case of a move. But with our intent to make this house our forever home, it’s time to clear the clutter. Out they went, straight to recycling. It’s a small thing, but it felt oddly freeing.
We also made some changes to the layout of the house, moving furniture to make the spaces warmer and more functional for the winter months. The study—cozy and well-insulated—is now our dining room. The music room, while larger, doesn’t hold heat well, so it’s set up for gatherings but won’t see much use during the coldest months. These little shifts not only prepare us for the season but bring a sense of renewal.
Managing the Winter Blues
Winter isn’t just a season—it’s a mindset. I’ve struggled with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for years. I jokingly call it “hibernation mode” because, like a bear, I want to eat everything, sleep more, and get a little grumpy. Some years, it’s mild. Other years, it’s a full-on battle.
This year, the anxiety has been strong. Renovating an old house brings its own set of worries: What’s going to break next? How will we pay for it? Will I have the time to do everything on my list? These thoughts can snowball, creating a loop that’s hard to break.
But here’s the thing: I refuse to let it win. One of the best decisions I made was sticking to a routine I envisioned before moving here—a morning walk with the dogs. It’s a simple act, but it makes a world of difference. The fresh air clears my mind, the exercise helps with energy, and the time outdoors grounds me. It’s not a cure-all, but it’s a step in the right direction. And hey, I’ve even lost 20 pounds in the process.
Finding Purpose in the Darkness
Winter is a time of reflection and resilience. It forces us to slow down, to focus on what truly matters, and to find light in the smallest moments—whether it’s the glow of a fireplace, the joy of holiday preparations, or the quiet triumph of sticking to a routine.
For me, this year’s battle with SAD is ongoing. But every walk, every cleaned room, every little act of preparation is a victory. Winter may be dark, but it’s also an opportunity to shine.
Final Perspective:
The days may be shorter, but they’re still full of possibility. Whether it’s braving the weather, reorganizing the house, or simply taking a moment to reflect, every effort we make now sets the stage for brighter days ahead. Winter is tough, but with a little cheer and a lot of determination, we can face it head-on—and maybe even thrive.
Now & When 
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