Illustration © Sabelskaya | Dreamstime
Let’s face it, this time of year is always tough. The holidays are over, it gets dark at like 4 p.m., and it’s cold as all get-out. Not to mention, there’s not much to look forward to just yet, either.
What do we do about this unforgiving part of the year? And how do I get my family motivated to move and get healthy in hibernation season?
Thankfully, we have busy kids who keep us on our toes. We also have a dog that needs walking every day — no matter the temperature gauge outside. But even so, it’s helpful to have a plan and some healthy guidelines to hold our families and us somewhat accountable.
Here’s a helpful list that keeps my family going during the darkest, coldest part of the year.
Don’t eat the whole elephant in one bite. We all know the expression, right? If you try to do too much too fast, you can set yourself up for failure. Set some manageable goals. For example, get rid of all the extra holiday candy that’s just lying around.
Join a gym. We belong to the Kroc and love that we can swim any time we want. There’s a great kids’ program and programming for adults, too.
Enjoy the sunshine. Yes, it’s limited, but you need that Vitamin D. Make a point to get outside for at least 30 minutes each day.
Make plans for the summer. There’s nothing like getting excited about a fun trip. And let the kids help! We recently charted our summer road trip with highlighters on a giant U.S. map.
Go to the movies. Family fun at the movies never gets old. Lots of good movies come out around this time, too.
Clean the house. We always feel so much better when the Christmas stuff is down and the house is reorganized. It’s the annual purge, y’all, and it’s freeing as can be.
Become an awesome meal planner. With school starting back soon, you’ve got to get on your game, and quick. Figure out those two things your kids will eat (LOL).
Schedule play dates for your kids and date nights for you!
Go to the library with your kids and pick out books for everyone in the family. My kids and wife love to read, so having the library as a go-to place is key, especially during this time of year.
Get a head start on that yard work you procrastinated on during the fall. Spring you will thank you later. This could be bagging leaves, pulling weeds, or creating the foundation for a garden.
I hope this list is helpful to you and your family. I know firsthand how hard the winter, post-holidays, can be. But it can also be fun and a time for planning and reflection. Good luck, fellow parents!
Jeff Hulett is married with two daughters and lives in Midtown. He tells lots of dad jokes.