I’ve been told by a lot of people, native Bostonians and transplants alike, that one secret to surviving a Northeastern winter is getting outside. I don’t always have to leave the house on any given day (though I usually have a few errands to run). And some days, I do tuck myself away from the frigid temps and cold winds, especially if the weather is miserable. I particularly despise freezing rain.
But if it’s not raining/sleeting (or even if it is and I have somewhere to go), I’ll drive to the bank or post office or grocery store, walk two blocks to the branch library, walk to the beach (about a mile) or catch the T into town. I’ll spend a few minutes browsing the outdoor stalls at Brattle or stroll Charles Street or just walk the Common before stopping for a cuppa or a hot cocoa somewhere. And on these brilliant, sunny days, I need even less motivation to go store up sunshine or fresh air. I throw on my down jacket and a few warm handknits, and just go.
(I love my trusty wellie boots, but one of them has split down the side. Any recommendations for snow boots?)
cakes, tea and dreams 
Hmmm…it seems like something lined would be nice for trekking in the snow. I don’t know how much hiking you guys do, but I’ve been very happy with my waterproof hiking boots that do double duty. Because they are waterproof, they do just fine in the snow as well as mucking through mud. Perhaps get the kind that go over your ankles so you can tuck your pants into them.
When I was growing up I had a fantastic pair of snow boots from LL Bean. They had a fleecy inside and a waterproof leather and nylon exterior. Those babies got me through many a snow storm. I highly recommend any outdoor wear from LL Bean or Lands End. Great products and much cheaper than other name brands like North Face.
I agree: sometimes the best way out of a funky winter mood is to get outside. I’ve been trying to do the same thing here in Oregon. That hat is really cute–great color, too!
I’ve lived in the midwest my whole life, but I’ve never grown fond of snow or winter. Being without sunshine gets harder every year. We haven’t seen the sun here in almost two weeks.
It’s easy for me to hibernate on days when I don’t have to go out to work. I have to bribe myself with something like a trip to the library or my favorite coffee shop 🙂
I swear by imitation Uggs. I won’t spring for the real thing, but I have had a few different knock-off brands over the years, my favorite being Bear Paw. They are warm, waterproof and very comfy. They have a pretty decent tread too.
If you wanted to get another pair of rain boots, you can find liners for them for the winter. I’ve seen the liners at TJMaxx and Target.
Ultimately, whatever you do, I would recommend splurging a little – if you buy something of quality it will last for several winters rather than buying something new each winter. Good luck!! 🙂
We see so little sun in the winter months; on those rare days with a sun break (there is seldom an entire day of sunshine from October through April), folks in the northwest fall out of doors en masse, grinning at each other as if it is Christmas Eve.
I’ll echo the LL Bean and Lands End recommendations – quality stuff w/o the name brand prices. Colourful wellies are fun though, aren’t they?
I’m also stalking snow boots for my South Dakota winters!
While Uggs are super warm and cozy, they do not stand up well to deep snow and the salt on the sidewalks can stain them. So, I wear them sparingly.
I really like Sorel boots – they are super cute! http://www.sorel.com/womens-boots/women,default,sc.html
But, I’m waiting for these Keen boots to go on sale – waterproof and stylish! http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=41896&vid=1&pid=788873&scid=788873012
Most people here wear North Face or some equivalent, but I find the “hey, I just got in off the trails and the snow was so epic” style to be a little too hackneyed for my taste.
I wear Sorel snow boots. Yes, they are made for trekking through mountains rather than snowy streets – but they are SO DANG snazzy. I have tall ones with fur out the top. I wear them everywhere when we go to the snow and I always get compliments! Plus, you can snowshoe in them. 🙂 BONUS!
This is just the kick in the pants I need! I’ve been thinking about how to structure my days with my new job and I think a brisk midday walk is just what the doctor ordered. It won’t be easy on gross gray days like today, but I think it would help.
Hi,
Stumbled into your blog from Ravelry and have enjoyed it so.
I grew up in Scituate just to the south of you.
My favorite way to get out in winter was to go alone at night and lay on the most perfect snow I could find and watch the stars pass by.
I miss that. I can smell the cold air just remembering it.
For boots I loved leather hikers with wool socks.
Enjoy your time in New England it is a very special place.
Anne
Hi,
Stumbled into your blog from Ravelry and have enjoyed it so.
I grew up in Scituate just to the south of you.
My favorite way to get out in winter was to go alone at night and lay on the most perfect snow I could find and watch the stars pass by.
I miss that. I can smell the cold air just remembering it.
For boots I loved leather hikers with wool socks.
Enjoy your time in New England it is a very special place.
Anne
It was warm-ish (32) in Chicago last week and I took your advice and went running — so glad I did! Even despite the snow the last few days I have been trying to get out and get some daylight every day. It’s making a huge difference. Thank you!
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