Anointedtoday.blogspot.com: My Cozy Winter Favorites

Since Oprah came out with her favorite things it started me to think. What are some of my favorite things especially during the Winter?

***Purpose***

Winter is not one of my favorite things, especially in Michigan. I am so disappointed that there have been several days that the sun has not shown up. The sun is essential for health in many ways.

1. Importance of the Sun

The sun is essential for your health. Sun exposure for 10 to 20 minutes daily provides vitamin D, which supports bone strength, immunity, mood, heart health, muscle function, sleep regulation, and can help relieve seasonal depression. Health.clevelandclinic.org. talks about this. The sun is a topic for another post. I have a list of my favorite things in the Winter. I would like to share with you.

2. Hoodies

I used to wear long sleeve sweaters during the Winter. I used to wear undershirts under my clothing during the winter. The sweaters seemingly did not keep me warm enough. Michigan has had some very cold and harsh winters which included below zero temperatures. I tried wearing a hoodie. I like that it keeps me warm and the hood protects my head well. I discovered the men hoodies were much cheaper than the women’s. So I buy men hoodies. I now have several in a variety of colors such as red, orange, blue, pink, and black. I'm also thinking about including burgundy and white to the color selection. I am happy with my investment in hoodies. I also sometimes wear a T-shirt under the hoodie as well for an additional layer of warmth protection.

3. Long Coats

Did you know that wearing a long coat during the Winter is priceless? I found that it provides substantial protection against cold and wind, particularly for the legs. I have invested in a couple of long coats. I am sure to use them when the temperatures are below 40 degrees. In Fact today it is -2, cold and very windy. My long coat is perfect for this type of weather.

4. Sketchers Short Boots

I invested in sketchers years ago. I first tried one pair of tennis shoes. I heard a group of nurses talking about how sketchers were so good on their feet when standing for long hours. After my first pair I bought several more pairs. The memory foam in them makes you feel as though you are walking on air. I used to wear long boots but switched to short Sketcher boots. I prefer ankle boots. They fit snugly around my ankles and feel great. I have one black pair. I have been looking for a red pair, but I have not been able to find this same design in Sketchers.

5. Scarf around the Neck

Wearing a scarf protects my neck and throat. This does make a difference in the Winter.

6. Wear a Mask

I know it was emphasized to wear masks during the COVID-19 Pandemic, but I have found the masks are very helpful during the Winter. Initially, I would wear a scarf around my neck. Then I discovered that a mask worked just as well. It also prevents the cold air from coming into my lungs.

7. Small Blue Raspberry Frozen Fanta

My grandson was drinking a large Blue Raspberry Frozen Fanta. He said they're so good I should try one. I purchased one. I really like them. I buy them at McDonalds. I also cannot forget the Peach Slushes found at La Familia Restaurant. I like Peach Slushes even better than the Blue Raspberry Frozen Fanta.

8. Remote Car Starter

I believe this is a great invention. Entering a warm car is generally more comfortable than stepping into a cold vehicle. This also works just as well in the summer. Starting your car in the summer and allowing the air conditioner to cool it off is a plus when the temperatures are soaring in the 80’s or 90’s.

9. Winter Salads

I have found great winter salads at Great Giant Supermarket, G-5204 N. Saginaw St. Flint, Michigan 48505. Besides the fact that they have an awesome deli with fresh hot meals, they serve fresh salads daily. I just love this. I tried one and I love it. I have had their chicken salad and the ham and turkey salad. They are $9.99. Well worth the price. I appreciate this because it's rare to find salads at fast food places like McDonald's or Burger King, as they usually only serve breakfast in the mornings. Great Giant opens at 8 am and I know that I can go there and find fresh salads. They are wrapped colorfully with love. You know there is a difference in the appearance of salad when it is prepared properly?

10. Bible Online

I love having my King James Bible online. My pastor once emphasized to us the importance of saying scripture allow so that we can really hear it. My online bible speaks it allowed. This is something that I really like. Also, I visited another church recently. I pulled my iPhone out to read the scripture. I was amazed as the minister read the scripture over half of the church also pulled their iPhones out to read the scripture.

11. Chicken Soup for the Soul Inspirational word-finds

I love these word-finds because they are not just any word finds. They are word-finds with a message. They are comforting for the mind and spirit. They can be a cozy companion for those winter evenings. They are perfect for unwinding, boosting focus, and feeding the soul- one word at a time.

12 Pinto Beans

I grew up with just about every type of bean to eat daily. One day it might be pinto beans, navy beans, or kidney beans. I discovered since I became an adult that I love Pinto Beans. I like the fact that they are inexpensive and very nutritional too. According to Healthline.com Pinto beans are loaded with nutrients including fiber protein, thiamine, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. I usually soak the dry pinto beans overnight before cooking. This allows the beans to cook much faster.