Cold-weather habits setting in

Kaity Holtman

As the cooler weather starts moving in, I can feel my hermit-like tendencies surfacing.

This is where my husband and I flip-flop. He now prefers to spend more time outside, as I find myself moving inside the house more often.

He and I (I’ll admit, mostly he) used this weekend to get some outside projects done that need to get done before it get’s too cold. I got a few things done outside, but still have a few “winterizing” projects left to do that will wait a little while.

Because it was so beautiful outdoors this weekend, I felt a little guilty for taking on a big indoor project. But this project was one of two that I have been putting off since my cleaning overhaul back in January.

Organizing my paperwork and filing system was my top priority for the weekend. And I forced myself to let it take over my living and dining room to make sure it all got done — such a great feeling.

I know, some of you are thinking, “You’re not that old and you don’t own a business or farm, how much can it be?”

And you’re absolutely right, it’s not that much compared to those who have businesses and farms. And I don’t envy those people for all the paperwork they have to do.

But I will admit, I have an irrational fear that if I don’t stay on top of all this stuff now, I’ll become a hoarder some day. And that stresses me out like many probably cannot imagine.

So I organized to my heart’s content and finished the weekend feeling an amazing sense of accomplishment.

Now back to my cold-weather habits …

… I have found myself coming up with inside projects and ready get into some craft ideas I’ve had.

We currently have three different leftover containers full of soups – chicken noodle, chicken tortilla, and chili.

I’ve been wearing my slippers more frequently as the house gets colder.

Decaf coffee, hot chocolate, and herbal tea have found their way into my evening routine.

Once the Royals win the World Series, I have a list of books lined up to read throughout the winter.

I’m starting to make lists of people I need to buy Christmas gifts for.

And I’m starting to think about how I want to decorate for Christmas this year. (Yes, I’m that person, you may roll your eyes.)

I’m looking forward to Halloween candy and warm pies, to family dinners and carbohydrates galore.

And I am starting to think like a hermit.

Once I’m home in the evenings at this point, I like to stay there. I know, it’s terrible. I should want to get out and be social and go to community events.

But my dislike for the combination of cold and dark get the best of me, especially if winter weather is happening.

And after being in and out all day visiting local businesses, all I want is to be inside, smelling the woodstove burning, staying nice and cozy.

And yes, I know there are many people who don’t get that luxury, like my own family who farms and those who work outside.

I promise I don’t take it for granted, I soak up every minute. And I still force myself to get out and help sometimes. But if I had my way, I’d stay inside instead.

So, if you see less of me during these coming cold winter months, you’ll know why.

This normally social butterfly will go into hibernation and come out with the blooming flowers in spring.