People go on and on about how much they love summer, but the winter season tends to get less enthusiasm, if not outright dread. Icy roads, losing tans, and having frostbitten hands are all valid complaints, but winter has its perks too. Instead of complaining about this time of year, it is time to get excited about the good things December has to offer.

It’s been warmer than usual, but the temperature is slowly starting to get colder and more possible snow dates are being predicted. Although many Iowans highly dislike our harsh winter weather, Theresa Perenich, former PV student, shares, “I miss a lot of things about winter in Iowa, but probably the biggest one is skiing. [I also miss] the Christmas-y vibes you get with the snow. Here in Florida, it does not feel like Christmas at all when it’s 90 degrees out and sunny.” Iowans are fortunate to have both ends of the spectrum–hot summers and cold winters–with all the plusses and faults they each bring.

Though this area has only seen one snow storm, scarves and fuzzy socks are another story. Big, plaid scarves are stylish, yet act like cozy blankets simultaneously. Lauren Buechel, freshman, says, “My favorite winter clothing is leggings, sweatshirts, and Uggs.” A lot of girls can easily relate to this, and in general, many students are excited to pull out their warm, comfy clothes.

It is hard for the holiday aspect of December to not bring excitement, as well as the anticipation of a needed break from school. Families have begun picking out gifts, watching movies like “Elf,” and bringing out the festive decorations. From gingerbread houses to Christmas lights and ugly sweater parties to carolers, the Christmas spirit is definitely being passed around. “Christmas is such a fun holiday for me because I get to go to my grandma’s house and have a huge party with all 60 of my relatives. Plus we get to make and eat a ton of cookies,” Perenich explains.

In addition to the different holidays and gift swaps, there are many other ways to take part in winter. “In my opinion, the most fun winter activity is ice skating,” comments Buechel. Even if coordination on ice is not your greatest skill, many find it to still be good fun and great exercise.  The River’s Edge Public Skate Park in Davenport has open skate times available on their website. Also, a new outdoor skating rink just opened on Middle Rd. and 23rd St. in Bettendorf, with the only charge being the $2 rental skates.

Other  winter activities include: occasionally switching out morning coffee for hot chocolate/cider, cheering on the Spartans in winter sports like basketball, wrestling or boys’ swimming, or spending a cold day inside having a movie marathon…or even better– reading the Spartan Shield. In whatever way you can, make the winter days less dreary, stay warm, and remember to enjoy the season while it lasts.