As we continue into the coldest time of the year, the comforts of the common Coloradan can keep us happy and warm despite the cold temperatures. Around the time of heavy snow, slick ice, and frozen roads, the craving for warmth quickly increases, especially as it gets chillier. If this sounds like something you can relate to, read further to find a few comforts that many people enjoy during the winter season.

Winter Clothing

Existing as a general label for any clothing that is fuzzier, longer, warmer, or thicker than clothing from other seasons, “winter clothing” is in fact used during both the fall and spring months in our state— layers are often key. However, there is nothing like wearing fuzzy socks when its freezing outside; you could say it makes the experience that much better. With sweatshirts and leggings as a part of that warm uniform, woven scarves, cool knitted headbands and hats worn as a norm, and leather and sheepskin boots (yes, Uggs) used on the daily, the clothing that distinguishes winter is pretty fantastic comfort-wise, but can additionally be pretty stylish (can you say soft sweater dresses and patterned tights?). A senior at Air Academy, Renee Dooms explains, “I like winter clothing because I love boots and it’s easier for me to make cute outfits in the winter than in the summer.”

Hot Drinks

Hot drinks are another comfort of winter that are even greater during the colder months. When its below freezing outside, the air is chilled, and your cheeks are flushed, hot drinks are the perfect way to instantly warm you up. With hot tea, smooth coffee, delicious hot chocolate, and festive apple cider, the options are varied. Easy to make at home or easy to buy and burn money on with a Starbucks shop every 15 miles, hot drinks are an integral part of the cold season and cause us to reach for our wallets more often than usual (in a good way). Senior Ashlee Heinrich expresses, “I love drinking tea year round, but especially in the winter. I like tea specifically because it’s herbal and I can just cuddle up with a nice little mug and enjoy life.”

Blankets + Netflix

A perfect combo. There’s nothing like relaxing on a snow day or during the weekend with a blanket to snuggle in and a whole season (or 5) to watch on Netflix and other streaming sites. A great way to actually chill with others or by yourself, you could make this combination even better with some hot chocolate, fuzzy socks, or cozy scarves (see above). Also a good time to eat food, popcorn + Netflix can easily become a way of life. While you’re being lazy, feel free to watch a bunch of movies too; I don’t discriminate. Continue to put off what’s important in life ‘til tomorrow and enjoy yourself for a few hours when the snow comes around, or any other time you feel the need to decompress. Renee Dooms elaborates, “It’s nice to take a break and just watch a great TV show.”

Family and Friends

When we close our doors tightly and turn up the heater aggressively, time spent indoors increases quickly. To free your mind from boredom, spend time with family and friends to stay comfortable and warm without taking a step outside. From board games to baking, there are multiple engaging activities that become especially fun during the winter season. With movies and puzzles, cookies and card games, there are so many ways to make the most of this time of year. That’s not to say you shouldn’t go outside, however. After a perfect snow, there is often ample opportunity to make snowmen, go sledding, snowboarding, skiing, or to just go for a nice walk a enjoy the snowy scenery. It’s a time to take advantage of the weather and all the fun that comes with it. Ashlee states, “I love spending time with friends and family because they are the ones who know me the best and who bring me the most joy.”

Warm or cold, the experiences of winter will continue to be distinct. Enjoy it while it’s here and remember to be conscious of its benefits, even if you may be freezing your ears off! Wear warm clothing, drink hot drinks, and eat good food as the remaining weeks of winter pass by to remain cozy and warm as the snow falls outside. Additionally, have a great time with others— whatever the activity— to fill your heart with a different kind of warmth as you experience the best that [cold] life has to offer.