Embracing Winter
Pam Molnar
18 ways to brighten your mood
The holidays are behind us and Old Man Winter has settled in, but he is not the party pooper many think he is— especially in San Diego. Winter provides a unique opportunity for families to slow down without requiring hibernation. We get to bundle up for chillier weather and bask in the warmth of a fireplace. It’s the best of both worlds, so why not make the most of it? Here are 18 ways to experience winter joy and embrace this time of year. Go on a winter hike. Bundle up, explore a local preserve or mountain trail, and capture the beauty of San Diego winter. Create a scrapbook or photo collage. Sort through your 2025 photos, create
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a scrapbook or digital photo book to enjoy, then delete the photos so your phone has plenty of storage space for the new year. Roast hot dogs and s’mores over a firepit. Invite friends or neighbors to bring chairs, warm up around the fire and have an impromptu dinner.
Host a Souper Night. Invite friends to bring their favorite soup or chili to share. Consider adding a competitive spin by voting for favorites. Provide salad, rolls and cornbread.
Visit a winter farmer’s market. It’s a great way to support local artists and farmers while spending time with others in your community.
Go on a winter getaway. Instead of running away from the cold, embrace winter with a mountain getaway or day trip. Find nearby snowy spots and ski resorts at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/seasonal-happenings/ finding-snow-in-san-diego.
Learn a dance or TikTok trend. There are dozens of challenges and dance routines on TikTok and YouTube that are sure to help your family stay warm. Which one will you master?
Bake your heart out. There’s nothing like the smell of something delicious baking in the oven. Is this the year to buy a sourdough starter and give bread baking a try?