Fight The Winter Blues: From My Winter Pastimes to Yours

Siya Patel

February vacation is coming up, and while some of us may already have plans on how to spend the break, many might be wondering about things they can do to make the most of their free time. Here are a few ideas to get your to-do list started for the week!

 

Family Game Night!

Personally, board games are not my idea of fun. But when it comes to having a game night complete with friends, family, and food, then even someone like me is bound to have a great time. Gather around with your loved ones and some of your favorite games to play. Not only is this a good way to kill time, but also a chance to bond with your family. 

 

Have a Bake-Off!

Lack of time is one excuse that keeps you from making food at home. But if you’ve got a whole week with nothing to do, why not step into your kitchen and put those measuring cups to use? There are so many reasons why making your own desserts and food at home is way better than just buying them from the store. You can customize them to your liking and it’s a great way to spend quality time with your friends and family. If you’re by yourself, baking can be pretty relaxing. Plus you’ll get some me-time. Even if it’s just box-mix brownies, the satisfaction of making them at home can’t beat even the best pack of store-bought ones. 

 

Make the Most of Snow!

If you’re like me and you love the white, fluffy stuff that you see in the winter, then this won’t be a challenge to you. But, if you’re someone who absolutely despises it, the best you can do is try to make it as fun as possible. New England winters call for lots of snow, especially from January to March. When you find yourself stuck with nothing to do on a particularly snowy day, try to step out and lend a helping hand. Shovel the snow or clean someone’s car. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to make a snowman! Maybe you’ll do a better job than my sister and I did. 

 

Spend Some Time With Books!

For some of us, books may be our best friends. For others, not so much. However, a good way to pass the time is by picking out a book that really interests you and commands your attention. This way, whenever you find yourself with some free time, you can spend it by doing something enjoyable, relaxing, and productive. In case you were wondering, the book I was reading in this picture is called “My Jasper June” by Laurel Snyder, which I highly recommend.

 

 

 

Re-Decorate Your Room!

When you step into your room, does it feel like a mess that you’re longing to clean up? Well, what are you waiting for? You might want to spend your vacation tidying up and getting organized. If you’re like me and already have your bedroom as clean as it can be, then redecorate! Try moving things around and make some cool DIYs to liven up your space, making it resonate with you and your style. Here’s a sneak peak of some of the touch-ups I made to my own room. 

 

Get Crafty!

DIYs aren’t just great for decoration, but they also make thoughtful and unique gifts for others. Have you been missing someone in particular? Get creative and make something for them! Handmade presents show others how much you think of them. It’s really important to preserve your relationships with others and spread as much love as you can. Show your love for someone you care about by making them something that you know they will cherish for years to come. The picture above is of a floral design that I embroidered for my eighth grade English teacher with her last name on it. You can also try other things like knitting or crocheting. It doesn’t even have to be as complicated as that. As long as it’s from your heart, even the simplest of handmade gifts go a long way. 

 

These are just a few ideas that can help you make the most of your time spent indoors. But apart from the activities listed here, there are countless other fun things that you can do. The point is to be productive and make sure you use your time doing something meaningful, yet enjoyable.