The Hunker Games

We New Yorkers are kind of known for complaining about the winter weather. In our defense, these winters can be hard. The high humidity and gusty winds can make the cold air seem much colder than whatever temperature the thermometer claims. Plus, the simple fact that we walk everywhere means that we have to actually be out in that cold weather. A lot.

I'm all for a little bit of cathartic complaining, which is why I was so surprised in Colorado to see people actually enjoying the winter. After a few snow shoeing expeditions and half a dozen outdoor bonfires, I kind of saw their point. When my trip came to an end, and I headed back to New York, I made a decision to try my very hardest to look for ways to enjoy the winter. 

This weekend put me to the test. Winter arrived late this year, but when it hit, it hit hard, with 2 feet of snow, freezing wind, and a citywide mandate shutting down all transportation. And thus began our weekend of winter.

And you know what? I enjoyed it. I made my way to a friend's house where a few of us gathered to hunker down and ride out the worst of it (or as my friend called it, The Hunker Games). There was coffee to drink and comfort food to eat, a dog to play with, and lots of knitting. 

I got to wake my friend up with a snowball, start an art project, and hug a baby. 

When it was safe to venture outside, we were met with picturesque walks in the snow, bars with wood burning stoves, hot apple cider, free snacks, and So. Much. Quiet.

I can't promise I'll make it through the rest of the winter without complaining. I'm sure I'll be more than ready for spring when it arrives. But for now, I think my little goal of finding some joy in this weather is off to a pretty good start.