Monthly Musings: Beating The Winter Blues

Hey friends! I'm doing pretty good with this whole "keeping up with the blog" thing! I'm back with some more Q+A's, and next week I'll come back with some real updates but for now...

1. Something you do for yourself to beat the winter blues?

Indulge in a hobby - reading, baking, scrapbooking, blogging, etc.

Listen to music - loudly. 

Clean or take care of a nagging task
Call a friend 
Unplug/ Write a  gratitude list

2. Something you do for your family to bring joy over the winter?

Call them - get out of your own head, ask how they are and LISTEN. Make plans to get out somewhere for a change of scenery. 

3. Favorite cozy items or go-to's?

FLEECE-EVERYTHING! The fuzzy blanket, pants, socks, oversized sweatshirts- all of it! 

4. Winter exercise habits or practices?

I walk 30 min (mostly uphill) everyday during my commute- does that count? Also getting some cardio in when I'm running late for my train!

5. Do you practice journaling or meditation?

Yes. I can't quiet my mind enough for meditation, but I actually just started getting back into journaling. I forgot how much I missed it, and how cathartic it can feel.

6. Do you light candles or use essential oils to relax?

I light candles more for ambiance, but I do it as soon as I get home from work. I also kept a string of snowmen lights up for the same reason- and they make me smile. 

7. Any bedtime rituals you would like to share to promote quality sleep?

Turning off the phone at least a half hour before sleep, and also reading before bed. 

8. What are your morning habits that help prepare for a good day?

I'm REALLY not a morning person. But I do prep my coffee, put my bag together, and figure out what I'm wearing the night before. 

9. Favorite way to spend a day off in winter?

Wake up late and wear lounge clothes the entire day. If I'm alone, curl up and read or write or both. Have a spa day. If I'm with someone, play a game (Scrabble or Yahtzee are favorites), have a big meal together and some adult beverages, and watch a movie (or at least part of one!). 

10. Favorite winter themed movies?

I don't know if I have any "winter" themed favorites, but I definitely have Christmas faves: Elf, Love Actually and the Holiday. Oh, I really liked Serendipity too, and pretty sure that counts as a winter one! 

Tell me more about you!

Linking up with Holly and Patty!