But since last year, the first feeling of coolness sends me into a panic. I feel claustrophic with the idea of being stuck inside all winter, dreading getting out of bed to feel the icy air on my toes, wearing layers upon layers everywhere. These thoughts bum me out so much that then I spiral into dwelling on all the things I'm not in love with about my life. Just don't think about them, you say? Yea, try not thinking about food the next time you're starving. Even if you manage to get your thoughts on something else for a moment, you still feel hungry, and that hunger colors your attitude.
I don't think there's any way around this experience, at least not this year. So instead of fighting it I'm just going to try to make the most of the days when I'm feeling awful, and try to shorten their stay by doing more of the things I love: knitting, yoga, walking/running with Chloe. And as little as possible of the "have to's" like freelance projects and even some of my school work. I'll trade a less-than-awesome September submission for some piece of mind. I'm also planning some fun events like a foliage day cruise. Wish me luck!
13 comments:
I'm with you on this one. While I like the fall, it brings winter--which I despise. Ergo, I dread autumn. Keep this up, and soon I'll have summer! ; )
Your plan sounds good, though--embrace the ickyness and do fun things that give you joy.
I know what you mean. But, on the other hand, there are things that are awful to do in the hot, humid, sticky summer weather (ok, mostly, I'm thinking about cooking and baking, but hey, it's me. :)
So, focus on the good parts of winter: cooking stew/chili, baking, watching movies inside all day without feeling guilty about wasting the good weather, cross-country skiing on sunny/snowy days...
Erin, maybe we should have some I hate winter parties where we drink lots of warm drinks made with alcohol and complain. :)
Thanks for the suggestion Kerry! And welcome back! I haven't seen you around here in a while.
I think I might have said this last year, but have you ever thought of taking up a winter activity? I love the winter because I think snow is awesome, I love snowboarding, and I love my winter boots! Also, sweaters -- aren't they just the best item of clothing ever? Hope your panic subsides when you take care of yourself in those lovely ways you listed.
TI, you did suggest that last year, and I didn't do it! I'm now convinced that you're right though, and I'm going to join the AMC. That way, even if I can't find a friend to go winter hiking/cross country skiing with, maybe I'll go on my own with the AMC folks. (Brian's not into either of those activities...)Thanks for the kick in the snow pants. :)
Can I come to your I Hate Winter party? Hey ... what a great idea. I may have to plan something.
One thing to be grateful for is that you live in a country where you can actually move to a warmer climate if you choose to. Canadians who hate winter but love their country are SOL! Maybe that's why so many of us Canucks just learn to love the winter? I bet you would love cross country skiing. What's the AMC?
I'm SO IN for an I Hate Winter party.
let's jack up the thermostat and drink margaritas together.
Having just 'survived' my ... mumble mumble -th .... winter, I can truthfully say that i got through it by hunkering down and not taking on too many challenges. It's the shorter days that get to you. Dark in the morning when you go to work, and dark when you get home. Lots of pampering myself with TV watching and wine, got me through!
I LOVE the idea of you hosting an I hate winter party, Jan!
The AMC is the appalachian mountain club, a group that organizes hikes, bike rides, skiing etc... And TI, you're right--poor Canadians! :)
CB, I'll try to embrace your attitude!
I used to think I was so alone in feeling this way. I sympathize, I understand. The winter is long and challenging in New England.
Oh, I am so glad to read that someone else feels the same way! I've also been fighting off a case of the doldrums since the weather started to change. I live in Minneapolis, perhaps the coldest place on earth (weather-wise, anyway; the people are wonderful) and I am DREADING being stuck inside the house for most of the next 7-8 months. Especially since I don't feel like I really fully ENJOYED my summer. Sigh.
Looks like you've taken positive steps to fight it, like your yoga retreat. Maybe you can move by next year. Tropical, maybe?
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