WINTER IDEAS The Long Winter

The long winter...

Many lessons can be gleaned from these delightful, inspiring books about life on the prairie. All ages will enjoy the writings about fortitude, determination, optimism, hardwork, wholesome adventure and survival of the pioneer days. A great read for both kids, young and old!

As I am writing and laying out this page at the end of October, it is snowing outside. A perfect day to share the Little House on the Prairie books. Though in Kansas, by the end of the week it will be 60 degrees. Throughout our Winter, we can expect an occassional reprieve from winter. However, this year will not be without its challenges, as the pandemic continues on and on. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Little House on As you step into the struggles and hardships of the pioneer days, it is my hope that you will come to appreciate all that we the Prairie Series holds special childhood have during these current times. Remember, this too shall pass. memories. My daughter, Chesney, and I Below are additional tips and suggestions on how to cope in the long winter ahead... were part of a hands-on book group in our prior home in Moline, Illinois. We read each book, made lye soap, and candles. Make “This is our season of “Light up your home your own treasured memories this winter. coaching our children through disappointment” A great perspective by Kristen Howerton August 20, 2020. I encourage you to read the entire story online at and lighten up.” Put up those Christmas lights early and keep them up till Spring. The ambiance and warmth of light Visit the Little House on the Prairie Site & Museum The museum stands on the original land where Laura Ingalls Wilder lived with https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2020/08/20/ help soothe the soul, along with her family in a one-room log cabin in 1870. Since this is an outdoor museum, this-is-our-season-coaching-our-children-through- candles flickering in the room and it is presently open, but contingent on weather conditions. Masks are requested. disappointment/ [excerpts follow] the warmth of a fireplace or wood- The cabin was rebuilt in 2018 and is open to the public. $3 adults $1 Children A lot of that hinges on the narratives I model for my kids. We can give our kids one of two perspectives. That of victimhood...Or that of empowerment: We need to acknowledge and work through their real feelings, and give them burning stove (which helps me get through winter). Note that natural lighting lamps can help with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) and makes a great gift. Proceeds benefit the site, its operation and upkeep. The historic site also includes a one-room school house from 1872, post office and farm house. Open Wed-Sunday 10 am to 3:30 pm. Located 13 miles southwest of Independence, Missouri. Visitors should follow directions on website and call (620) 289-4238 to confirm hours. https://www.littlehouseontheprairiemuseum.com/pages/visit permission to feel fear, doubt, rage and sadness, And lighten up with laughter–just as we do. But beyond that, we also need to which is great medicine for all. give our kids hope. We need to help them see this as a temporary season, to give them some sense “Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.” that their world, while being profoundly changed, — Laura Ingalls Wilder “Remember and Reminisce” will not be forever marred. “Get outside and get yourself moving” ., Walk around inside your house Not everyone can get outside to enjoy fresh air. Recently I sent a friend in Recall and relive special memories, trips and gatherings by posting on facebook, sending a text, or writing out and journaling. Homebound this Winter gives you the time to compile those photo albums or order one online. Making vacation albums or a family cookbook make great gifts and momentos. Send holiday memories of past celebrations, Put on a jacket and get outside yearround. We have beautiful parks in De Soto–Miller Park, Riverfest Park, Lexington Lake and Kill Creek Park–filled with beautiful views and trails. Walk or take the elevator in the newly-opened Kill Creek Observation Tower. Too cold to go outside, or a rainy day...make dashes with removable painters tape or strips of fabric and have your kids follow the trail in and around your home...up and down stairs...around furniture. Also consider walking the perimeters of uncrowded stores. hospice who was bedridden photos of our property. Her precious text to me was a special blessing: “Thanks for sending some fresh air” — compiled by Rose M. Burgweger

if you will not be together this year. “Keep the conversations going–keep in touch”

“Make plans for the future” Skype, text or call your loved ones regularly. Facebook connects– but go a step further with a phone call or facetime online. Plan some Zoom Gatherings...it really does help to see people. Send a card of encouragement Start planning for when traveling will become safer and practice your writing. Handwritten cards can be saved and treasured, and show you care. and/or find a safer way to travel. Research airline safety practices that are being implemented, find a road less travelled and bring Lysol, wipes and masks along. Think ahead for future family gatherings and start planning. It is good to have something to look forward to. Simplify electronic communication for seniors with the Oscar Family app for ipad use, and the Jitterbug Phone available through https://www.greatcall.com Adopt a pet Look up area shelters online and enjoy the presence of “man’s best friend.” Pets have been in high demand especially this Covid year. Curl up like a cat and grab a blanket, hot drink, and read a book. Take an electronic break. After too much Netflix, Zoom, facebook, tweeting etc...unplug and find a nice spot to curl up in. Pick up a novel, favorite magazine (Discovering De Soto ), read the newspaper, or take some time to journal, reflect, pray, and just relax. Watch the birds Be Thankful Count your blessings and write them Get a birdhouse and some bird food and enjoy watching feathered friends... out on a paper chain each day (as one sure to brighten up dreary winter days. Visit local De Soto Feed & Garden De Soto family did) or put in a jar or for a great selection of bird food and birdhouses. special box, or make a gratitude journal.