The winter of 2013–2104 has been a cold one so far. It came early, and from the looks of things, intends to stay late. So Down the Gravel Road is posting this top ten list as a public service announcement for the inhabitants of the frozen tundra. Keep in mind that the list is more metaphorical than practical, the contemplation of which should offer enough food for thought to get you through Ground Hog’s Day when Punxsutawney Phil tells the northern hemisphere how much longer this winter will last.
10. Car seat warmers. The Man of Steel and the Woman of Aluminum are far to steely (and cheap) to own a car with these. But the Woman of Aluminum is adept at finding out if the cars of acquaintances, with potential to become good friends, have them.
9. Mouse traps. Those of you who live in old farm houses where the frozen tundra meets the edge of town know why this item made the list.
8. Happy lights. One way to fight back against the lack of daylight hours in the winter.
7. Chocolate. This item is self-explanatory.
6. Hand lotion.
5. The ability to day dream. Specifically, the ability to day dream about warm places like Florida, Hawaii, and the southwestern United States. To watch an instructional video on how to gain this ability, go to your local movie theater’s showing of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
4. TV and movie DVDs. Visit your local library’s selection for free or purchase a subscription to Netflix.
3. Friends and family. Those long winter nights go by faster when you have company over to supper and play games afterward.
2. A Bible. It promises that our present sufferings can’t compare with future glory. (Romans 8:18). While Paul is referring to future glory in the next life, the new life that bursts forth each spring is a type and shadow of what’s to come. The middle of winter, when all seems dead, is the perfect time to meditate upon the promise of the life to come.
1. Books, books, books. A good book is good company any time of year. But they are essential in winter. The best book I’ve read so far this winter is The Book Thief. You?
