By Angie Goff
I don’t know about you, but the mild start to the winter made my skin super thin. Any kind of cold has become too cold. Add the punishing winds, and I’m almost immobile. On a recent gusty day, I complained to my daughter all the way to a hair appointment. Patiently waiting for me to get done, Adora managed to make a paper airplane to play with. Eventually it was time to check out, and it was then that I noticed her halfway outside the salon door. There my 5-year-old stood—no jacket, no scarf, just a smile and her arm raised high in the freezing air. It was in that moment I realized that horrible, terrible, atrocious wind I could not stand was the very same thing making my daughter’s plane fly.
Perspective. It’s hard to keep this time of year when it’s cold outside and you’re dealing with the stress of being cooped up. Watching my daughter and her plane get lost in that biting moment was awakening. It was a signal to me to take a breath, relax and realize this is a rare time of year.
Yes, it’s peak season to go stir-crazy, but it’s also that lull between high-stress holidays and crazy summer break. The best cure I’ve found so far is finding ways to get out despite the cold.
I’ve had luck with local websites like the one for Fairfax County Parks. In fact, we just signed up to plant potatoes while listening to tales of leprechauns and Irish traditions.
Another thing to consider is a quick trip to the library. It’s been one of the easiest ways to lift the mood. This is also a great time to reconnect with other parents. Remember that playdate you all keep putting off? Have it. The kids will have a blast, and you’ll appreciate the adult chatter more than you know.
With that said, getting out doesn’t have to be an event. In fact, I highly suggest keeping things low-key. Remember, less stress means higher spirits as we all take on this last leg of winter’s chill.
( March 2016 )
Angie Goff from NBC4 and the “Today” show Parenting Team. How do you and your family survive the stuck-in-the-house because it’s-too-cold close quarters? Join the conversation at today.com/parentingteam
