Sunday Collection: Snow Day Treasures
a snowstorm cured my seasonal affective disorder
The last time I had this much fun in the snow was either when I was 12 and went sledding on the biggest hill in town or when I was child-free and could lounge around reading all day. As much as I loved my freedom, I wouldn’t trade places with either of those past selves because watching my toddler fall in love with the magic of building a snowman singlehandedly cured my seasonal depression.
I know that in a few weeks I’ll be sick of the snow, feeling stuck inside, and a little melancholy—probably extra sleepy, too. I’ve learned to give in to the urge to hibernate, but I’ve also learned to take advantage of the endorphin high of fresh snow or a random sunny day or a not-too-chilly walk. And I’ve gotta say, making memories with my son makes it one thousand times easier to embrace the snowy season.
When I was little—three years old, I think—there was a huge snowstorm, similar to what we just experienced in the Midwest over the last few days. My dad and I built a snow bunny, complete with charcoal eyes and whiskers. I don’t really remember the bunny, but I do remember pictures and the story behind them—and I still feel loved when I think about the time he took to build and sculpt a snowy masterpiece for me.
I always knew that I inherited my dad’s creativity and artistic flair (he actually taught my kindergarten art class), but I sort of forgot how fun it is to bring that side of myself into parenting until recently. In addition to our snowman-building adventure, Theo and I have been doing a lot of coloring and drawing on his new easel. We’ve made homemade play dough and created storylines for his toy dinosaurs.
This is what I’ve been waiting for, and I’m holding ever so tightly to all the memories I possibly can. I don’t feel this confident in every area of parenting, but give me a blizzard, and I can make something special—just like my dad did over 30 years ago.
Winter Must-Haves
Kamik Snow Boots. These are super affordable, and I’ve had mine for over four years. They’re still in great shape for playing, hiking, shoveling, or walking on the sidewalk.
Stroller mittens. A neighbor gave these to me as a gift, and I love them! I never would have thought to buy a pair for myself, but they’re so useful.
An easy self care ritual. My favorite way to practice self care in a cold season is to walk or hike outdoors with Theo, then shower after I get him down for a nap. I put on my pajamas in the middle of the afternoon and read a book or tidy the house while he sleeps, then we spend the rest of the evening playing inside. This simple practice makes me feel comfy, cared-for, and refreshed.