Summer Wind

So, the holidays are over, you're back to school, or you're almost back to school and...it is still cold! Really, what is up with that?! Do the winter blues have you down? I know sometimes I get a huge travel itch and want to run away from school and the cold and head to the tropics for a little warmth and sun (unlike Pittsburgh, at least Virginia gets a little bit of sun). Well, here are fool proof ways to turn your day around, and cheer you up!

Step 1:


"When you wake up early
in the morning
Feeling sad like so many of us do
Hum along a song
Forget whats going on
And surely something's
gotta come to you
And you gotta say it's alright
Yeah it's alright
It's alright, to have a good time
Cause it's alright"- Huey Lewis and the News

Just  like the song says... when you are waking up early for class or wherever you are going today, and it's freezing cold, and you are putting on all of your layers, turn your speakers up really loud and listen to this song. It is such a feel-good song and will instantly put a little groove into your day.

Step 2:
Put on your running shoes, spandex, and fleece and get outside and go for a run. I know, it sounds like exposing yourself to the cold will make you even more crazed for warmer weather, but getting out and breathing fresh air is sure to lift your mood...plus, you will be getting in shape for bikini weather! To quote Legally Blonde, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy."

Step 3:

Clean a room, any room, living room, your bedroom, anything. Even if you hate cleaning, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and you will have a clean space!

Step 4:

It's 5 o'clock somewhere, isn't that how the saying goes? Get together with friends and mix fruity cocktails. Think daquiris, margaritas, bahama breezes, pina coladas, etc. If you aren't 21, just don't enjoy alcohol, or are the driver for the night, no worries.. here is a great recipe for a mocktail (non-alcoholic cocktail):
Sunny Citrus Cooler:

• 1 (46 fluid ounce) can pineapple juice
• 2 (12 fluid ounce) cans frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
• 3/4 cup lemonade concentrate
• 6 cups ginger ale, chilled
• Orange slices

Step 5:

 Wear color! During the winter it's hard to incorporate bright colors into your wardrobe, if you can't think of anything else, throw a colored long sleeve cable-knit on and add a LP Murphy scarf, and you are sure to brighten your day, and anyone else's! Another fun option, when getting a manicure, instead of going for a dark, winter-appropriate, go for a coral-y, or bright shade to instantly add a punch of color!

Step 6: 

As you are winding down from you cheer-ed up day, add a little Bob Marley to your iTunes and give your speakers one more go before you head off dreamland. Three Little Birds- Bob Marley.

I hope this helps you cure the winter blues!
Have a fabulous day!
Yours,
sCe