For most of November the weather in Iceland was nice and mild and I was in lala land thinking that we had lucked out on a freezing, snowy winter. As soon as December 1st hit though Reykjavik turned into a winter wonderland and gave me a freezing kick in the pants reminder that I am not ready. My Christmas wishlist now looks more like a list for surviving winter, I am not going to freeze my ass off like I did last year!
My Must Haves for Surviving Winter in Iceland
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Board/Card Games: Game nights are perfect for those nights when it is to stormy and cold to venture far. Even though it is tempting to hibernate in my house during the winter if someone is having a game night I will be there! I just bought Cards Against Humanity and am hoping it provides lots of laughter filled nights.
Kindle: I am really hoping a Kindle is under my Christmas tree this year! (hint, hint H) During the winter I spend a lot of time reading but with a limited English selection in our library I am dreaming of a Kindle to keep my inner bookworm happy.
Winter Coat: My poor coat I had last year didn’t survive the Icelandic winter, no joke the hood got ripped off in a windstorm. Point of story I am in need of a proper winter coat. I have my eye on this coat, I think the fleece lining would be perfect to keep me nice and warm without feeling like a marshmallow!
Coffee: There is no way I am getting out of my nice warm bed unless a delicious cup of hot coffee is waiting for me. I am a big fan of the Christmas blends and always buy a few extra bags before they go away for the season.
Candles: I must have candles, there are essential for cozy winter nights! H makes fun of how many candles we have in our living room but I love them, and I know he secretly loves them as well. I am on the search for pine scented candles, hoping they have them somewhere in Iceland.
Crockpot: Is there really anything better than coming home on a chilly winter night to a warm stew or soup waiting for you in the crockpot?? A crockpot is on my list for this Christmas and I am already planning all the recipes I can make in there. Hello chili!
Winter boots: Isn’t it just the worst when snow sneaks into your shoes leaving your feet wet and cold?? I say no more! This year I am buying proper winter boots and keeping my feet happy. I have my eye on these winter boots, cute and warm, just what I need.
Fur Hat: One thing I never leave the house with during the winter, a hat. Having cold ears is just miserable to me so a warm hat, that stays on during a wind storm, is necessary.
Body Butter: Now I have always been told moisturizing is important and that your skin gets dry in the winter but I never fully understood the need for lotion until moving to Iceland. Holy dry skin! My nightly ritually now includes a thick layer of body butter, it is necessary to avoid alligator skin this winter.
Fluffy Blanket: Curling up under a fluffy warm blanket on a cold winter day is just the best. H thinks I have a slight obsession with blankets, I think I just enjoy being warm, the debate continues.
Once I have all these items I say bring on winter Iceland! But please bring summer this year too!
Question of the Day?
What are your winter must haves?
