Complete with holiday traditions, winter fun, and everyday ideas, this winter bucket list will inspire you all season long!
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If you need a social-distance-approved winter bucket list, I’ve got you covered!
Alright y’all, I promise I won’t rehash COVID stuff other than saying this: it’s still happening, we’re all exhausted and frustrated and sad. So my goal with this winter bucket list is to create some ideas to embrace fun and still be smart when it comes to our health and the health of the people we love.
Meaning: this year’s winter bucket list is focused on being at home or at least local. If our restrictions continue to improve, we’ll pivot! But in the meantime, we can still make local fun.
How was the fall bucket list?
The fall bucket list didn’t end up being the most seasonal, but what’s really been predictable about 2020 anyway?
Here in Italy, we were able to travel a bit through much of the fall. While technically some borders were open, we opted to stay within Italy for weekend getaways. Even better when we could drive ourselves and bring Wedge!
Italy announced a new lockdown procedure this month, creating tiered restrictions based on region. We’re currently restricted to our town and can’t see friends, but being able to walk outside has made a huge difference in day to day life in lockdown.
It’s been nice to take the natural reset of fall and create some good rhythms. When daylight savings hit, I used it to start getting up early to walk a few miles before breakfast! I think it’s helped mentally as much as physically, and it’s nice to know that both me and the dog get exercise first thing.
I also finally FINALLY completed Duolingo! The further I went, the harder the lessons became, so it took way longer than I thought. I’m still taking in-person classes because nothing beats that. I’m also working through Rosetta Stone now. If you’re interested in learning a language, online or in-person tutoring is the best choice. The next best thing is Rosetta Stone – I’ve tried almost every major language program on the market, and nothing compares.
In true 2020 fashion, I bit off entirely too extravagant of a Thanksgiving menu for a tiny apartment oven and fridge. But it was delicious nonetheless! We’ve now done enough hosting or solo Thanksgivings that I feel like I’ve mastered most of the classics!
Winter at Home
I love Christmas traditions, so I’m tweaking them to be at home. Still baking for an army, but this year I’ll deliver them to neighbors instead of hosting a party. I did most of my Christmas shopping at local businesses – any little bit helps them get through this year financially!
By the time late January rolls around, I’m typically feeling the winter blues. I’m trying to think ahead this year to make habits and choices that’ll lift that! Saving a trip to somewhere warm and sunny for January 2022.
There are other ways to plan for SAD (seasonal affective disorder) that I’m planning into my days. Getting plenty of exercise, lots of walks outside, and enjoying hot cocoa on my balcony! Europeans embrace being outside in all weather, and it’s inspired me to follow their lead.
Winter Bucket List
- walk 7 miles every day
- make: lentil veggie stew, mulled wine, and all the cookies
- send Christmas cards
- make a photo album
- try a new hobby and commit to doing it weekly (knitting, calligraphy, photography, languages, a musical instrument… anything!)
- drink hot chocolate on the balcony
- take an online class about something you love
- watch your favorite Christmas films
- experiment with a new style of food (I’m trying more vegetarian meals, for example)
- read: The Writing Life, City of Fortune, and Gods of Jade and Shadow
- make at least one homemade gift for someone
- play in the snow!
- make a ton of cookies and drop them off for friends and neighbors
- spend an entire day in PJs
- set goals or intentions for 2021, or at the beginning of each month
- shop local for Christmas gifts where you can
What’s on your winter bucket list? Do you have ideas for embracing traditions at home?
I share a seasonal bucket list that you can save to your phone or print out with my email list – add your email address below to get one!
