As the chill of Canadian winter envelops us, staying active and maintaining a cozy home can be a delicate balancing act. Join us as we escape the confines of basement workouts for a refreshing cardio session in the serene outdoors, and then dive into a transformative cleaning spree that breathes new life into our bathroom space. From braving the frosty trails in creative winter gear to indulging in festive self-care rituals and whipping up a delightful holiday Greek yogurt bowl, this day is all about re-energizing both body and home. Winter is here, but that won’t stop us from infusing warmth and cheer into every corner of our lives—so come along and share in the joy of embracing this beautiful, brisk season with us!

Our Outdoor Winter Routine

Stepping outside into the crisp, Canadian winter air for the first time in weeks was nothing short of invigorating. While the icy weather often forces us to retreat indoors, nothing quite matches the refreshing experience of outdoor cardio, especially after being cooped up in the basement. Our recent venture into the woods was a welcomed break from the routine—we bundled up in our thrifted and budget-friendly winter attire and set off to make the most of the not-so-snowy, but still chilly, terrain.

• Winter Gear Hacks: We’d bundled up in our creative winter gear, like the kids’ mittens from Costco that were much more affordable than the adult versions. When it comes to cold-weather workouts, it’s all about layering for warmth and mobility.
• Basement Workout Alternatives: For those especially brutal winter days, our basement setup boasts a treadmill and a recumbent bike. However, frequent use of these can take its toll on the body—my past bout with plantar fasciitis doesn’t do well with too much treadmill time, and long bike sessions tend to make my tailbone sore.
• The Joy of Getting Outside: Breaking free from the confines of indoor exercise provided not just a physical lift, but a mental one too. The companionship, the laughter, and the shared love for the great outdoors recharged our spirits.

Revamping Our Home Environment

After our brisk walk, it was time for a home transformation. Our bathroom, long overdue for a deep clean and refresh, awaited a makeover.

• Deep Cleaning Essentials: Armed with a trusty Dyson, garbage bags, wipes, sprays, and a step stool, I was prepared to tackle the grime. With Kenny G playing in the background, even the most mundane cleaning tasks took on a festive air.
• Out with the Old, In with the New: It was satisfying to clear out the yucky, rusty bathroom accessories and replace them with fresh, stylish items—including new shelving from Amazon and a picture that reminded us of our beloved dog, Hank.
• Before and After Transformation: There’s something deeply gratifying about seeing a space evolve from a cluttered mess to a sparkling, organized haven. From scrubbing the shower to lining the cabinets, the transformation was complete, and the result was a rejuvenated space ready to welcome the season.

Culinary and Self-Care Indulgences

As we wrapped up our cleaning spree, all our new Amazon goodies arrived just in time, and our refreshed bathroom set the perfect backdrop for some well-deserved self-care.

• Holiday Greek Yogurt Bowl: Creativity in the kitchen culminated in a delightful dessert that was both festive and nutritious. With a mix of M&Ms, cereal, caramel sauce, and fruit, this Greek yogurt bowl was a delicious way to satisfy holiday cravings without overindulging.
• Christmas Manicure Adventure: Inspired by Pinterest, I dove into a holiday-themed manicure, complete with candy cane stripes and sparkly green accents. The process was as much about the enjoyment and relaxation it provided as it was about the final result.

In navigating the challenges of winter, we find joy in the little things—whether it’s a brisk walk in the forest, a sparkling clean bathroom, or a festive bowl of Greek yogurt. Embracing these experiences reminds us to stay engaged and active, not just with the season, but with life itself. As we chatted and laughed about our “old people” aches and the quirks of aging, it only solidified the importance of these shared moments and the bonds that make them meaningful.

Remember, weight loss and health aren’t just about numbers on a scale. They’re about finding harmony between heart and mind, staying positive, and adapting with creativity and joy. Whether it’s bracing the cold for a dose of nature or clearing out the clutter to welcome freshness, these are the endeavors that keep us moving forward. Here’s to embracing winter’s embrace with full hearts and open spirits!