Beating Winter - Romance Writers Weekly - #lovechatwrite

First beer in the backyard of 2018 - January 20th!

​We’re continuing the winter theme here at Romance Writers Weekly. Because, after all, it still is winter! Leslie Hachtel says:

It’s the middle of the winter and the lack of sunlight and the cold (for many of us) is difficult. What do you do to get out of the doldrums?

If you joined me from A.S. Fenichel, welcome!

The days are noticeably longer already, a month after the solstice, and that’s one of the best cures for getting out of the doldrums for me. But here are my top five suggestions (in no particular order):

1. Agree to disagree with the season. It might be winter, but that doesn’t mean we have to accept it. Play upbeat summertime music. Drive with the windows down (even if it's only for ten seconds). Have a beer in the backyard wrapped in a parka, toque and scarf.
2. Plan a trip. Better yet, get away for a little while. But if that’s not on the budget, planning for a summer vacation or your next great adventure (even if that adventure is years away) can help you escape for a while.
3. Read a book. You knew this was going to be on the list, right? When I’m in the doldrums, I go one of two ways – read a tried and true story that I know will comfort me, or go the complete opposite and read brand new authors looking for my new favourite. Either works, given the day!
4. Play games. We love to play cards and board games in the winter. It’s a great way to pass an evening, and can take your mind off the dark dullness outside.
5. Get outside. As I write this there is blue sky outside, making the snow bright white.  I get particularly grumpy when I’ve been cooped up inside too long. It’s good to get out in the fresh air, for a walk, a snowshoe, a ski – anything to remind yourself that your life is not confined by four walls!

What do you do to beat the winter blahs? Or what other challenges do you have at this time of year? Be sure to check out Jenna Da Sie's blog and see what suggestions she has!

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