winter blahs

So my case of the Mondays wasn't just about it being Monday. It was partly about it being winter...

By February, the winter blahs have taken hold: I'm sick of being cold, seasonal affective disorder is in full swing, and I don't feel like leaving the house but don't really feel like doing anything at home either - I can't even get myself motivated to do the stuff I normally enjoy, much less stuff like housework. And to top it off, this month Peter has a night rotation - working overnight 5 times a week plus all day every Sunday, so either he's sleeping or I'm home alone.

So today I made myself come up with a list of activities and outings and am resolved to get myself motivated for life again and ward off those blahs. Maybe if I force myself to do some fun stuff, I won't be bothered if it continues to be 20 degrees below average temperatures.


1. For when it snows again and I want to be cozy: now's a good time to pull out the Charley Harper puzzle I've been saving for when I have a lot of home-by-myself time, and it's been way too long since I put in P&P.

2. Seems like an excellent time to finally paint the bathroom (since the paint swatch has been taped up there for at least 5 months now).

3. The bedroom is just not finished to my satisfaction, and now that I have some extra income from a couple freelance projects, I think a trip to Ikea is in order - especially for that mirror I've been eyeing forever.

4. I've got a good list of lighter reading ideas (i.e. plot heavy!) going... mystery & young adult especially.

5. Treating myself to a new nail color would feel right nice.

6. I actually rather enjoy cleaning out my closet. Also, now's the time to bring the spring stuff I didn't wear last year to the consignment shop (making a little $ from that and getting to pick out a new spring item - I'm thinking maybe some Toms - will be fun too).

7. To force myself out of the house: I must use some more of my Enjoy the Arts vouchers. I think I'll start with the Contemporary Arts Center - they have an interesting exhibit opening soon.