Getting Ready for Winter

/

hot tea, a cozy throw and a pot of new amaryllis bulbs. All i need is a good book! (charlotte ekker wiggins photo)

Getting Ready for Winter

I love having four different seasons. The one I prepare for the most is winter, a busy time in terms of planning for next year. There are chores I don’t enjoy doing, such as deciding what plants get to spend winter inside and fun tasks such as stocking up on new teas. Here are some other suggestions to help you get ready for winter:

  1. Garden, Apiary and Plants:

    • Move sensitive plants indoors or into a greenhouse.

    • Mulch outdoor plants to protect their roots from freezing.

    • Trim tree branches to prevent ice damage.

    • Cover delicate plants with burlap or protective cloth.

    • Tuck bees into hives by closing the entrances and adding wind breaks.

  2. Emergency Supplies:

    • Stock up on essentials: food, water, medications, and toiletries. Don’t forget pet food and pet supplies.

    • Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.

    • Keep extra blankets, warm clothing, and sturdy footwear handy.

  3. Winterize Your Home:

    • Check insulation and weather stripping.

    • Inspect and clean chimneys and fireplaces.

    • Ensure heating systems are working efficiently.

    • Seal gaps and cracks in windows and doors.

  4. Vehicle Maintenance:

    • Check tires, brakes, and windshield wipers.

    • Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, snacks, and a shovel.

    • Consider switching to winter tires for better traction.

  5. Pipes and Plumbing:

    • Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.

    • Drain outdoor faucets and garden hoses.

    • Know how to shut off your water supply in case of emergencies.

  6. Health Precautions:

    • Get a flu shot to stay healthy during the flu season.

    • Wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of illnesses.

    • Stock up on cold and flu remedies.

Those are the practical things. Now to be ready to be cozy:

  1. Stock Up on Comfort Food:

    • Prepare hearty soups, stews, and casseroles.

    • Bake cookies, pies, and other winter treats.

    • Stock up on hot chocolate, tea, and coffee.

  2. Create a Cozy Home Environment:

    • Arrange warm blankets and throws on chairs and sofas.

    • Use soft, warm lighting like candles and fairy lights.

    • Invest in a good bookshelf to save your books and create a reading nook.

    • Make comfy napping spots for your pets.

  3. Engage in Indoor Hobbies:

    • Start a new book or join a book club.

    • Explore winter crafts like knitting or painting.

    • Learn to play a musical instrument.

  4. Prepare for Power Outages:

    • Have board games and puzzles ready for entertainment.

    • Keep a portable phone charger and power bank handy.

    • Use a battery-operated radio for weather updates.

  5. Stay Connected with Loved Ones:

    • Plan cozy gatherings with friends and family.

    • Schedule video calls to stay connected with distant relatives.

    • Organize potluck dinners or game nights.

  6. Practice Mindfulness:

    • Try meditation or yoga to stay calm and centered.

    • Keep a gratitude journal to focus on positive aspects of life.

    • Spend time in nature when weather permits, even if it's just a short walk.

By combining practical preparations with comforting activities, you can ensure a safe, warm, and enjoyable winter season. Stay warm and cozy!

Charlotte