As you've probably picked up by now, I'm really struggling with winter this year. I know, I know. We live in Canada -- I shouldn't complain! But complaining is part of the many stages of dealing with winter, and that's where I am right now. This morning I woke up to the news that it would be -19 degrees Celsius all day. -19 degrees! It's March 3rd. Come on! So here's the optimist in me trying desperately to cope. I decided that I need to look at the bigger picture, and instead of focusing on how cold and deprived of sunlight I am, I should focus on the things I like about this... sparkly, Narnia-like season. So here are five things I like about winter. 1. Snow Snow is good. At this time of the year I have to look back to the first snowfall of the season and get back into that feeling of wonder, peace and excitement. When the first snowfall happens, we look forward to all that will come with the season -- skating, tobogganing, wearing a brand new winter coat, accessorizing in the latest, warm fashions, hot, decadent drinks... wow, things sure do look different from the front end of winter, don't they? 2. Warming up Is there any better feeling in the winter than thawing out? I don't think so. I love getting indoors after being out in the biting cold and getting feeling back into my body. The pins and needles that come with defrosting from a wind-stung face are welcomed, and they also remind me that I should be grateful for heat. Other sources of heat in the winter are also good: portable heaters (human, animal or the electric type) and warm beverages (spiked or not). 3. Layers of clothes I often tell my friends in other countries that the best way to survive winter in Canada (Toronto, mostly) is to put on your parka and about five layers of clothes before you head out the door, and hope for the best. I stand by this. In a given day, the temperature can fluctuate up or down 10 degrees Celsius. Layers are awesome, because you can control how warm or cold you are. 4. Added accessories Unlike other seasons, winter gives you the opportunity to deck out in additional fashion accessories. From hats and scarves to leg warmers and trendy mittens, winter lets us be fun and creative with our looks. I just need to remind myself to not seek inspiration from the Abominable Snowman on the colder days. (Seriously -- warmth over fashion, people!). 5. ...Who am I kidding?! It was hard enough coming up with four things I like about winter. If I had written this post at the beginning of the season, I'm sure there would be different outcomes. Dont' get me wrong -- our love/hate relationship with winter is part of being Canadian, but this one feels like it has dragged on for far to long. Right now, I'm just looking forward to spring, sunshine, flowers, colour and lighter clothing! Dear Winter, I'm done! Image courtesy of Simone Castello