Beating the Winter Blues

I cannot stand the cold weather! Usually I've had enough by this time of year, but this winter has been especially bad. I definitely suffer from some blues this time of year. And with probably about six more weeks (at least) until things warm up a bit, I need to find some ways to cheer myself up. Below are some of my methods. What are yours?

1. Pedicures- Just because our feet are hidden doesn't mean they should suffer! I went for a pedicure this past Monday when I was off for President's Day. It was so great- and a bargain at only $13! (City girls- 1st ave between 12th and 13th- manicures $7, pedicures $13). I felt very "summery", until I slipped my feet back into my Uggs and braved the cold outside. And guys, don't think my suggestion isn't for you too! There was a guy sitting next to me getting a pedicure. He must have the winter blues too!

2. Ice Cream- If I'm outside walking around in the cold, I'll get a Starbucks Hot Chocolate. But once I'm inside in the heat, I don't need it to warm me up anymore. I can opt for some ice cream instead! Here's the trick- buy some cones! I am going to do this for me and Hubby this week. Then we can feel like we're down the shore getting some Custard's Last Stand in Ventnor.

3. Sunglasses- I don't tend to carry my sunglasses with me this time of year. Maybe if I drove more often I'd have a need for them. On Monday it was quite bright out and I brought my favorite pair out with me for the day. Just the act of putting on my sunglasses made me feel happier. Has this happened to anyone else out there? I think it just reminded me of warm weather and instantly made me smile. Although I also had to wear a hat, so I couldn't push them to the top of my head to wear like a headband ("Aunt Gladys Style" is what we call this in my family- named for my Aunt who hasn't taken glasses off her head in 80-some years). With my big sunglasses and my horrible looking (but necessary) winter hat, I actually may have looked kinda scary. Oh well, at least I felt good.

4. Exercise- Exercise gives you endorphins, and endorphins make you happy! I learned that from Legally Blonde, but it's true. Not only will this make you feel good, but it will prepare you for summer. I like to imagine myself running on the Boardwalk or in Central Park. And, I'm not going to lie, I imagine how amazingly toned my body will be by summer (ha, right). What else is going to make me keep running?

5. Shopping- OK, so this makes me feel better ALL THE TIME. Seriously, I bought new contact solution at Duane Reade and I was thrilled (sad, I know, but I've been on a shopping ban and I'll take anything I can get). This time of year stores start putting out their spring and summer clothes. I like to walk around and at least figure out what I want to wear in the upcoming season. I have my eye on some shoes already! I also like to think about my summer purses, which are waiting so patiently on my shelf. I am dreaming up some outfits to match with them. Dreaming of clothes may seem odd, but by this time of year I'm always sick of my winter wardrobe. Stuck in a fashion rut, and I can't wait to get out of it!

These are just a few things I'm trying to do to bring a smile to my face on these cold, blustery days. Anyone else out there have any ideas? Besides vacation or moving to Florida, of course.