Migrate, adapt or hibernate? How to deal with Canadian Winters

Well with the first of December came our first snow of the season.  The Weather Channel has begun their updates on ski resorts and sports stores are busy with Christmas shoppers purchasing skis, sleds, snowboards and skates.  When I was young, I loved the snow and wintertime.  There's nothing like building a snowman or having a snowball fight on a snow day.  I remember having no problem getting up early on a school day to listen to the radio, fingers crossed, waiting for my school to be named as a closure.  But alas, as a grown-up, there are no more snow days for me.  So how do we get through the next four(hopefully), or five(more likely) months.   Our choices
are pretty much like the animals; migrate, adapt or hibernate.

Adapt
First and foremost is the practical.  Buy a good coat, goose down filled.  More money yes but so worth it.  Hat, gloves and a really good pair of boots that are both waterproof and insulated will keep you dry and warm.  Your beautiful, fashionable, heeled boots look great in the mall but trust me when your hurdling snow and fighting frost bite fashion won't matter.  If you drive, spend the money on winter tires.  Your brake distance and snow/ice road handling will make them worth it.  They can save your life and give you peace of mind.  And of course, make or purchase an emergency kit to leave in your car.  Your kit should include a blanket, flashlight, long lasting candles in a tin can, matches (in case the lighter is too cold to spark), lighter(in case the matches get wet), first aid supplies, basic tools, booster cables, kitty litter (for traction), snow brush and scraper, and a few snacks.  Candles in your kit may sound old fashioned but a lit candle in a tin can will create enough heat to prevent you from freezing to death. Be a good scout and always be prepared for bad weather. 

Of course another way to adapt to winter is to enjoy it like a child.  Learn how to ski or take the kids tobogganing or go on a romantic date ice skating.  The time waiting for spring will come faster if you find activities to do that you emjoy.  And if you still can't handle winter, you can always...

Migrate
Many retired Canadians follow the birds and fly south for the winter.  For many of us this isn't an option.  Consider a week away somewhere warm.  January can be a great time to go away and you can get some great deals.  There will be premium costs if you choose reading week or March break so do your research.  And if you can't get away, a big blanket, warm fire, hot toddy and a snugly friend will do the job for the night!   Me, I will opt for the bears' winter and choose to...

Hibernate
I, during the the cold and snowy weather, can be found deep under my blankets in my large comfy bed, stuffing myself with comfort food and counting the days till spring.  Not very Canadian I know but that's how I deal with the darkness and the minus temperatures.

The choice is yours, I've made mine, see you in April.