Winter’s bitter chill has officially hit here in Wisconsin! This past week, Milwaukee got into the teens! And even though we all knew it was coming, it still can be a hard pill to swallow. Getting through midwest winters can be rough! Grey skies, below freezing temperatures, and harsh winds… for months!

It can seem like summer may never come, but over the years I have found a few things that can make the frigid months all little more bearable.

Buy The Right Gear

Sorrel Boots

I finally caved and bought a pair of sorrel boots last year, and let me tell you, they are 100% worth the money! There’s nothing worse than cold wet feet after scrapping off your icebox of a car in the morning, or trying to enjoy a day out with friends. The boots you wear can make or break your day! Buy a pair that’s water-proof (not water-resistant), and make sure they are insulated and tested for below freezing temps. It truly makes all the difference, and I have no idea why it took me 25 years to buy a decent pair of winter boots!

Parka Jacket

Having a warm winter coat is one thing, but my life was forever changed when I bought a winter coat that went past my butt! (…TMI?) Investing in a high quality parka is something all midwesterners should do. Wether you’re just running from your car into work, tailgating, or enjoying a walk in the snow, a good coat is a game changer. A quality winter coat can be pricey, but one of high quality can last 5+ years. I would highly recommend investing in a wind-proof, water-proof parka to stay warm all winter long.

Gloves, Hats and Scarves (oh my!)

In addition to good quality boots and a coat, make sure to have a few go-to accessories during the winter months. I always like to have a pair of thinner winter gloves for everyday use, a pair of snow gloves, and a few hats and scarves to swap out throughout the season.

Take Care of Yourself and Get Outside

I can hear my mom saying this as I type it, but, don’t forget to “take care of you!” Take your vitamins and get outside! Cabin fever is real, people! I am all for a cozy night (or day) in, but getting outside and breathing the fresh air is very important. Go for a brisk walk during your lunch break, or take a short hike on the weekends. Getting up off the couch and soaking up some much needed vitamin D can help with seasonal depression, and overall sluggish-ness (I’m gonna just pretend that’s a word).

Make Plans

This might seem like a weird thing to add to this list, but making plans with friends and family can get you out of the house and give you something to look forward to during the cold winter months. Get brunch, have a game night, watch a game out with friends. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, just something simple to keep you off your couch all winter long.

Don’t feel like socializing? Plan something special for yourself! Head to the spa, get a manicure, or even plan a little getaway for you and your partner! Winter can be long and dreary in the midwest, so having plans and events to look forward can really make all the difference.

What are your top winter essentials? What do you do in the winter to stay active? I’d love to hear what keeps your winter bright!