WINTER IS NOT FOR WUSSIES
I'm a HUGE wuss - especially when it comes to Manitoba winters!
After living in Calgary for 10 years my body had easily adapted to the mild winters and the + 20 degree Chinook's! Moving back to small town Manitoba 3 years ago I was quickly learnt - I really was allergic to snow and winters!
It was one of the biggest (and hardest) changes that I had to go through. I went from my light white Bebe coat, to full length mulit-layer snowboarding jackets. From designer scarfs that's main purpose was to look stylish, to heavy scarfs, neck-warmers, mis-matched mitts, and homemade tuques. From wedged boots and closed toe pumps, to over sized fur Sorrels. From my fuel efficient VW Golf starting first time every time, to having to plug the beast of a truck in so the diesel wouldn't freeze hoping it will actually start in the morning. And from going to the mountains to see how beautiful the snow was, to not being able to open our front door because of the large snow drift!
I'll be the first to admit - the first winter in Morden was a true test. After the big move the summer had seemed like a vacation, but with winter arriving in a harsh way I had sent myself into a state of depression. Everything became real fast. I spent days in the house without even leaving where lulu's and hoodies became my new style of choice. On the odd weekend I would be convinced to leave if it meant hanging out with good friends that would squeeze a smile or a laugh out of me. It often was a topic of discussion in our household because I just didn't seem happy. I had to learn to adjust in SOME way and it might need some creative thinking. For New Years Kyle and I decided to take a trip to Banff - this was what I needed!! But would the smiles make it back home? You bet they did (in the most hottest, sparkling fireworks, exhilarating high kind of way).... HE PROPOSED!! I knew at this moment I needed to do EVERYTHING to embrace us and this change - and make it into one awesome adventure.
After living in Calgary for 10 years my body had easily adapted to the mild winters and the + 20 degree Chinook's! Moving back to small town Manitoba 3 years ago I was quickly learnt - I really was allergic to snow and winters!
It was one of the biggest (and hardest) changes that I had to go through. I went from my light white Bebe coat, to full length mulit-layer snowboarding jackets. From designer scarfs that's main purpose was to look stylish, to heavy scarfs, neck-warmers, mis-matched mitts, and homemade tuques. From wedged boots and closed toe pumps, to over sized fur Sorrels. From my fuel efficient VW Golf starting first time every time, to having to plug the beast of a truck in so the diesel wouldn't freeze hoping it will actually start in the morning. And from going to the mountains to see how beautiful the snow was, to not being able to open our front door because of the large snow drift!
I'll be the first to admit - the first winter in Morden was a true test. After the big move the summer had seemed like a vacation, but with winter arriving in a harsh way I had sent myself into a state of depression. Everything became real fast. I spent days in the house without even leaving where lulu's and hoodies became my new style of choice. On the odd weekend I would be convinced to leave if it meant hanging out with good friends that would squeeze a smile or a laugh out of me. It often was a topic of discussion in our household because I just didn't seem happy. I had to learn to adjust in SOME way and it might need some creative thinking. For New Years Kyle and I decided to take a trip to Banff - this was what I needed!! But would the smiles make it back home? You bet they did (in the most hottest, sparkling fireworks, exhilarating high kind of way).... HE PROPOSED!! I knew at this moment I needed to do EVERYTHING to embrace us and this change - and make it into one awesome adventure.
My second winter was all about getting my big toe wet (in snow). Test things out - take baby steps. I started enjoying the sight of a fresh morning snowfall, the furry babies romping outside, and even occasional trips to our friends lake front cabin. On one of the cabin trip weekends I was convinced to go for a snowmobile ride with everyone. We started dressing and I noticed my attire didn't include any snowmobile gear like the others.... it included leather driving gloves, Ugg wool boots, and a bright orange Zara coat. Well that wouldn't do - so over sized men's gear it was! I was surprised how much fun the ride was, riding passenger was a lot scarier then I thought! Hanging on for dear life, screaming and bashing helmets because of my weak neck muscles just added to the adrenaline. When we got back my voice was harsh, my toes frozen but I had a great time! As I was telling everyone how fun it was while taking off my helmet - I started getting weird looks, followed up by some giggles until finally my hubs told me to go look in the mirror. Lesson learnt - ALWAYS wear waterproof mascara.
This winter I'm determined to completely come out of my shell. I joined a curling league even though I've never watched or played the sport before - all I know is those rocks are really heavy and I'm not supposed to bring my figure skates. My Hubs also bought me my first 'Real' winter jacket! So ready or not - I'm going to enjoy this winter... even if it means some slips or cold toes - I'll always remember I'll get warm hugs when I get home :)
Love it! Had to laugh at your comment about your weak neck muscles - haha! Good thing you're born and bred a Manitoba girl, so pretty soon you'll be embracing these winters like it's no big deal ;)
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