Author: Alyssa Craig
One of the most common reasons people visit Utah is for our winters. After all, it is the “best snow on earth”. Winter brings with it not only the weather, but also access to winter sports, festive holidays, and the need for adorable coats and scarves. Even though some people have been doing snow dances for months and are eagerly awaiting winter, there are many others who are less than thrilled with the arrival of the coldest season.
If you fall into the latter category, you have come to the right place! Here are five great reasons to get excited for winter and maybe by the time spring starts to make its appearance, you will almost be sad to see winter go.
1. Snow Means Warmth
It may sound contradictory, but did you know the temperature is actually higher when it snows? While during the warmer months, sunshine and blue skies equal warmer temperatures, this kind of weather will produce piercingly cold conditions in the winter. The cold air we experience in the winter is also very dry air. When the temperature goes up, the air’s capacity to contain moisture also increases. As this continues and the moisture condenses, snow is able to form. The clouds then act as an insulator to keep the temperature a little higher.
When you see it snowing, this is your time to enjoy going outside (assuming it is not a blizzard). Use this sign of warmer temperatures as a time to get out of the house and go for walks around the neighborhood and build snowmen or igloos with the kids.
2. Fun in the Kitchen
When it comes to cooking and baking, winter is the best season for both activities. All the many holiday occasions call for a variety of baked treats and goodies. The cold weather makes foods such as soups acceptable to enjoy, as they are not as satisfying when the weather is warmer. Additionally, using the oven warms up the house, something we try to avoid during the summer months.
The cooler weather also probably means your family will be spending more time indoors, so participating in more cooking and baking will give you and your family a chance to spend more time together. Help your children practice their cooking skills and have your little sous chefs help you prepare the neighborhood holiday treats.
3. Spas are More Appreciated
During the summer months, pools are the place to be as we are trying to escape the scorching heat. Luckily, you don’t have to put away your swimming suit for the winter months. A spa or hot tub gives you the opportunity to not only relax and socialize with friends and family but its warmth is much more appreciated in contrast with the chilly air. As suggested here, they are also very versatile. You can have them out in the open, in an enclosed room, or even in a gazebo, making them easier to use in a variety of weather conditions. There is no reason to give up on warm water fun just because of the snow!
4. Memberships
Cabin fever is a common complaint during the winter months. Because of the weather we find ourselves spending more time inside being less active. This may be a good time of year to consider getting a membership for a new hobby or activity you have been wanting to try. Whether you decide to take a spinning class, ballet lessons, or become a yogi, many gyms and studios offer ways to stay in shape and get moving during the winter months. Watch for holiday specials and deals before choosing your membership.
Winter is also a great time to buy memberships for your kids! Check their favorite places like the local children’s museum, the planetarium, or an aquarium for passes. This will give them a place to go to get out of the house and continue learning new things!
5. Wardrobe Upgrade
From scarves, hats, boots and sweaters, winter is the best season for your wardrobe. With so many accessories not only available but practically necessary, the combinations you can come up with result in a higher number of outfit options than the summer months provide. This is also a great time to embrace layers! Not only will you look fantastic, but you will be staying warm at the same time. That is a win-win scenario all around.
Even if winter is not your favorite time of year, there are still plenty of reasons to get excited for these cooler months. Find ways to embrace the opportunity to develop skills and enjoy activities that tend to go under-appreciated the other months of the year. Then you just may gain a deeper love for one of Utah’s best features.