When it is -26 outside there is nothing to do but grab multiple cups of coffee. Oh and take your third cup of coffee out on the deck to take advantage of the awesome light for a photo. Before you ask, I did put on my boots, but no gloves or jacket. Surprisingly, it wasn’t too bad…probably because it had warmed to a balmy -12 (and I was three steps out my back door for about 2 minutes, tops).

Despite Accuweather’s latest doomed title, there are plenty of people surviving up here in the far northern reaches of the country, my family included. My girls are enjoying the excuse to wear flannel PJs and knee socks under their dress-up clothes, my living room is strewn with an unusually high percentage of Barbie accessories and I am planning my kitchen revamp (more details to come).

I find myself enjoying these last months of snow and cold. Trust me, it makes it easier knowing we will be moving to a warm, sunny location. My usual formula for dealing with new temperature extremes includes some version of stepping out the door and then jumping back inside to curl up with a steaming hot or ice cold drink. However, most homes in Portugal do not have air conditioning and windows are screen-free, so we will have no choice but to head out when the temps heat up. Screen-free windows…eek! How am I going to deal with Regan and no screens?! (For those of you who don’t know Regan, just wait…you will.) Good thing Tom is pretty handy, between the two of us we should be able to make some screens. While I’m thinking about it, that little tidbit about Europeans not putting ice in their beverages…is that true? Well, nothing like lukewarm diet coke, to make me give up soda! Thanks, Portugal!

How are you keeping warm today? Or if it is warm where you are, please delight me with tales of short-sleeves and green grass!