Get the FUNK out!
So, this is winter…again. Yay.
Let me start over. Hey, it’s winter again, woo hoo! 😊
No, I haven’t finally lost the few marbles still rolling around in my head, but instead of complaining about how long our New England winter seems, I’m here to help turn things around and offer you some hope among the snow, ice, and aching shoveling muscles.
Those of you who snowmobile, ski, skate, or ice fish already know that winter offers some enjoyable outdoor activities. For us indoors folks—who haven’t already escaped to Florida or Arizona—finding fun things to do is a bit more challenging, but we still have opportunities to enjoy this season and lessen its depressing effects. The key is to actively seek out these pursuits and embrace their healing properties.
Look, it’s all about giving yourself permission to do fun things you wouldn’t normally have time to do. Without all those pesky fair-weather outside activities to get in your way, the slower winter months might allow you to catch your breath. You deserve some me time!
And as usual, I’ve got your back with several suggestions. Go ahead, apply the Icy Hot, set your electric blanket to high, and read on.
Bowling
Whether it’s ten pin or the New England classic Candlepin, visiting the lanes is a great way to beat the winter blues while getting a little exercise in. Plus, knocking down those pins helps you get your frustrations out. Just picture Old Man Winter’s face on each pin and let ‘er fly!
Cribbage league
What part of fifteen-two, fifteen-four, and a pair is six don’t you understand? Okay, this time-honored card game isn’t for everyone, but if it is, winter is a great time to get together with friends and get your peg on, while enjoying snacks and adult beverages.
Indoor swimming
It seems like a lifetime since you struggled to fit that huge, canvas cover over your home’s pool last fall. Instead of frowning at that little ice rink and sighing, get on over to a place like Capital Sports and Fitness that offers indoor swimming. It’s a great way to practice for summer, while getting in some exercise. I know, you may not be able to enjoy any poolside frozen cocktails, but it’s still a fun way to spend some winter hours.
Movies
If you’re like me (and I feel really sorry if you are) you keep a list of movies you haven’t yet seen, in hopes of viewing them when you have more time. Well, winter might just offer you those spare moments to start catching up. You can bring Hollywood into your home via the billion available streaming services, or you could get adventurous and check out some new releases at your local theater, on the big screen. Places like Smitty’s in Tilton even offer arcade action, axe throwing, and live entertainment!
Local library events
With the advent of the internet and smartphones, we’ve sort of ventured away from our local libraries, but these venerable community cornerstones offer so much more than books and information. They offer other live events, such as local author readings, Lego nights, movie nights, and many other fun activities. Log onto their website and see what’s happening this winter!
Comedy nights
Other than reading my hilarious blog posts, when was the last time you had a proper belly laugh? Well, it’s time, people! Whether it’s a local place like the Capital Center for the Arts, or you travel to Boston or Portsmouth, comedy acts are featured often enough. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a night out. Have some dinner, beverages, and lots of laughs. I’ve been told it’s the best medicine.
Shopping
Remember a time when you didn’t wear pajamas and click add to cart to buy merchandise? Believe it or not, there are still places called “stores” that reside in actual “buildings” for you to visit and check out the latest shiny things. I’m not talking Walmart or Target. How about the Mall of New Hampshire in Manchester, Tanger Outlets in Tilton, or the Premium Outlets in Merrimack? You’ll find some cool shops, along with entertainment and delicious dining options. Heck, these days, it’s okay to wear your jammies in public, so it’s a win-win!
I hope this gives you some inspiration and ideas for how to cope over the next couple of months. Why not share some of your own thoughts for how to beat the winter blues in the comments section below? You might just help us all get the FUNK out!
Thanks for hanging with me today, everyone. My goal in life is to offer you weekly good vibes, so please continue to tune in. You know I’ll be here!
Also, whatever you are, stay warm and be a good one.
-Dave
