I don’t know about you but as the cooler temperatures are approaching, I find some low level anxiety creeping in. I live alone, and I am frankly dreading the colder months as I am not yet comfortable being indoors for social events. I know how important it is for me not to isolate so I have been readying myself!
I have lived on my front porch and back deck most of this quarantine, having wine nights consisting of social distancing and great conversation. I am not ready to give that up!
Here are some ways to extend your patio time and save yourself mentally and emotionally as cooler weather approaches:
- Buy an outdoor heater for your space! I personally had a bad experience with a fire pit so am sticking with a heat lamp much like you see in restaurants.
- Invest in some nice blankets or, as suggested by a friend of mine, have a BYOB policy. Bring Your Own Blanket and Bottle of course. DUH!
- UGGS!!! Super warm and cozy.
- Get out those cute scarves, mittens and winter hats! Bundle up! Your friends will appreciate the time together and you will too.
- And hell, you can even get nutty, skip the patio, and get moving. Go for a walk or a hike! The movement will warm you up and you may burn off some of that quarantine weight you’ve been complaining about.
When I used to travel to Switzerland, I noticed they had outdoor seating year round. It was odd to me at the time but when in Rome….. And you know what? It was nice to be outside in the sunshine even when it was cool. Bonus (or kind of gross) – they provided blankets!
Don’t be afraid of a little nip in the air. Plan for it and enjoy it!