It's a busy life we lead, but it doesn't matter how snowy and dreary it gets there are always ways to keep busy.
I've never been confined to the skating rink, but know many families who spend months roaming from ice surface to ice surface for hockey and figure skating. They spend their free time volunteering in the rink kitchen and though many look forward to the end of the season, there are those who actually miss the stands and the dressing rooms.
Other friends find ways to pass the time indoors and new hobbies and talents emerge. I know people who bake delicious and beautiful cakes and others who crochet or knit. One friend is so wrapped up in her yarn and hooks she even crochets in bed. The fashions coming out of the trend are cozy and cute.
It isn't hard to spot a child with a mother, aunt or grandmother who has been bitten by the bug. My own grandmother called me before Christmas. She left a message on my phone in near desperation. She had lost her crochet hook and had spent hours looking for it, taking cushions off her chairs and going through her entire apartment. "I need to crochet," were the last words of the message asking me to stop and pick up a new hook for her.
I've even been tangled up in the trend of buying yarn and have actually finished a scarf and hat and started a few more projects.
Other people have taken up and are loving new physical activities. Small communities including Waseca are offering martial arts classes and there seem to be other fitness classes popping up all over the map.
Winter doesn't have to be boring. I've overheard conversations predicting a baby boom in the near future. It isn't expected because of the recent popularity of certain novels, but due to the length of the NHL absence. While the players and owners were in discussions there were many who said they were tired of the drama and the greed. They swore they wouldn't support the league and were happy to support the teams in local and regional arenas.
Now I'm hearing people talk about watching the games on television but not buying any new jerseys this year. I guess it all comes down to habits, what people enjoy and what they are used to doing. Winter lasts a long time and if there are a few surprises along the way I'm sure they'll keep people busy and warm too.
