Need Help While Hibernating?

OK, it is really COLD! If you’re retired like I am and don’t have to go out for the next few days, it’s in the teens and maybe you’re wanting to stay in where it’s warm. But watching TV for four straight days may have you rethinking that idea. What can I do with all those hours?

It’s a wonderful opportunity to look at some ideas that could turn out to be something you’ve never thought of before.

First of all, reading a book makes time go faster than most other activities. But maybe you’ve never been a reader and never wanted to start. I suggest this is the perfect time to try, because you don’t have to keep doing it if you aren’t enjoying it. That probably wasn’t the case when you were in school or had to keep up on reading materials pertaining to your job. The secret is finding a topic that interests you—let’s say sports, for example. Pick a team, an individual, or a league. It could be in magazines, online, or newspapers.

Here’s an example: I have been fascinated by Pompeii for a long time. I would love to spend a few days inside, finding everything I could read about the volcano that erupted in 79 A.D. and killed everyone in the area.

If reading is still giving you cabin fever, here’s another idea. Think about all the things you now wonder about your ancestors but didn’t bother to ask at the time. Why not write those things down so younger generations will have access to the answers in the future? Some photos might be included, too. One question answered may lead to others and bring back memories and discussions of many events—questions like: Where were you when JFK was shot? What was your favorite pet? How much did I weigh when I was born?

You might also try identifying and organizing all the photos you’ve been planning to sort for so long.

I’ve tried to help make hibernating enjoyable, and I’m sure you could think of lots of other ideas. But if nothing seems to make you look forward to another day of it and it’s still only January, maybe you should just dress warmly and head downtown for some exercise—ice skating at the city’s new ice rink, which is open for a few more weeks!

Karen Hasara