As winter sets in, the heart grows warmer

Hearing warnings of a cold front and blustery snowfall does not get this Minnesota native excited or nervous. Having had to "celebrate" my sweet 16 during the state's biggest blizzard on Halloween in 1991 when I should have been having a trick-or-treating party with my friends, seeing a few inches of nature's white, wet powder makes me go "Meh".

In my 10 years in China — living in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, for seven years, then venturing north to Beijing three years ago — I've rarely had the chance to see the steam of my breath, let alone make a snowman or toss a snowball at some unsuspecting passerby. I have such an aversion to winter weather that I refused to take a trip back home from October through April. And yes, it does snow six months of the year in one of the coldest states in the United States. Minnesota, in particular, experiences one of the largest temperature ranges in the world — rising above 38 C in summer and dropping to less than — 29 C in winter.

The one instance I did go back to Minnesota in the winter of January 2020, just as COVID-19 was ramping up and businesses were temporarily closing down, seemed like a good idea as I was seeking a different environment. However exciting it was to see snow for the first time in seven years, the nostalgia was quickly replaced with regret. Off I went to the department store to buy a puffer coat, gloves and thick socks. "What was I thinking?" was a common thought throughout the seven days I was visiting. As soon as I arrived at the airport to return to China, I threw everything in my parents' car and said, "You can donate all of it. I won't be coming back in the winter again."

Fast-forward to Beijing almost four years later and the chatter of a "blizzard" warning surrounds me. "I heard it's going to be the worst snowfall in more than 10 years!" exclaimed a colleague. Reading social media news also informs people to stay warm and safe. Schools have closed in favor of online learning and getting a ride-share is virtually impossible. Big boots with good traction have replaced sneakers and thermal underwear is making everyone look like they've put on a few kilograms instantly.

Despite many misgivings about winter and the temperatures that come with it, the rare snowfall in the city has brightened my mood. The air is crisp, offering sharpness with every inhalation. The little shocks produced by static electricity make me giggle, especially when I can utilize them to surprise someone. My little cat, who is turning 1 year old, watches the snowfall from the window ledge while his lack of perception has him pawing to catch each snowflake. The cold is also a good excuse for brewing hot cocoa and sitting in front of a faux fireplace while watching bad TV shows.

Yes, winter weather may be a burden for some who haven't experienced it most of their lives — but if you can get past the inconveniences and looking like you've put on weight from extra layers, it can be a marvelous season that puts you in the mood for the upcoming New Year — and new beginnings.