Hoo boy, does anyone else feel like this colder weather showed up like a slap in the face? I am 100% more of a summer person, so these dropping temperatures come with a serious drop in my mood and energy. If you’re like me and you’re already missing some of your favorite sunny day adventures, it might help to find some joy in some of the following activities. They’re sure to warm you right up!

Knitting or Crocheting

This one is a personal favorite of mine – I’ve been crocheting since 2017, and while it makes me look like a total grandma, it has quickly become one of my favorite hobbies. It’s super easy to teach yourself some simple patterns online, it’s easy to find cheap yarn at Michael’s or thrift stores, and the biggest benefit of all – you end up a cute warm, fuzzy accessory like a scarf or hat! AND they make great gifts. What’s not to love?

Cooking

It’s impossible to feel chilly when you’re standing over the stove stirring a nice warm pot of soup, or sautéing some fresh autumn veggies. Even if you’re the type of person that could burn water, there are plenty of easy cheap recipes that can warm you up while you’re making them AND while you’re eating them. Some great ingredients to cook with in the colder months include warming spices like cinnamon and chili powder, and seasonal veggies like sweet potatoes and butternut squash.

Need some inspiration? Check out these 38 Warm and Comforting Recipes for Cold Weather!

Photography

While I hate the colder months, I can’t argue that autumn is the most beautiful time of the year. The many colors of the changing leaves, the frustratingly early but radiant sunsets, and many other beautiful scenes can be captured forever in a photo. And all you need is your phone! Experiment with perspectives, colors, filters, and subjects. Take a picture – it lasts longer!

Explore DMV Museums

We are lucky to live in a part of the country with such a rich supply of museums. Whether you love art, history, or trains – yes, trains – there are so many museums to choose from. Many museums in Maryland and Washington DC are free or discounted with a Student ID. What better way to escape the cold than to enter a big beautiful building and expand your cultural horizons?

Stay warm everybody!