We often hear the statement, “Relief from the Heat!” Unfortunately, this time of year, the word heat can be replaced with cold. Everywhere you go, you hear, “I’m freezing!” I have complete sympathy for you and your cold hands and feet.

The cold weather seems endless this time of year. But this winter is a record-breaker. When I was a kid, my parents yelled at my sister and me…if you are cold, put on a sweater. And we better not get caught without something on our feet and a hat on our heads. I know from my parents that without a hat, “You’re going to catch a cold.” So what can you do to get through this time of the year?

Going to Florida is an option, but what if you can’t travel to a warm climate? My non-expert advice is to bundle up and visit a friend. But first, go through the drive-thru at Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, or Krispy Kreme and get hot chocolate or your favorite beverage. Then, when you arrive, start complaining immediately. After all, you just finished celebrating a holiday. There is much to complain about, relatives, bad food…grandma’s cold vegetable salad and her jello mold, traffic, and the WEATHER! Let it all out, and then let your friend have her turn.

What did your mother tell you? A problem shared is a problem halved; even if it gives you a tiny bit of comfort by commiserating, you will feel better. So get out of your house when the weather permits and visit a friend, don’t forget a hat and gloves.