Winter got you down? Just can’t wait for spring breezes, wildflowers and long walks? Then take a deep breath and hold on. Spring isn’t far away. In the meantime think about ways to break out of those wintertime blues. Life can still be interesting while cold weather has its last hooray.

What to do if you can get out and about safely

--Go to the library and stock up on books you’ve been waiting to read. While you’re there browse the magazines and check out audio books or videos.

--Hit the mall in tennis shoes and get some exercise. Do a little window shopping. Treat yourself to a hot drink and a snack or splurge and have lunch.

--Visit a museum or art gallery. Nothing raises your spirits more than a few hours with some beautiful art pieces.

--Take in a movie matinee.

--If you are lucky enough to get a warm sunny day, pack a picnic and head to the park. Doesn’t that sound lovely?

What to do if you can’t get out and about safely

--Go online and check out a bunch of gardening sites. Order some seed catalogs. Plan your garden or what you want to add to your houseplants.

--Write or email friends you haven’t contacted lately. You’ll love getting their replies and just the act of making contact is sure to lift your spirits.

--Plan a little travel. Look at the map and see how many day trips you can identify. Make a list and see how many trips you can plan for the spring and summer.

--Do a some virtual travel. Pick a place anywhere in the world and “google” it. You’ll be surprised at how much information there is online. There are so many travel sites with beautiful pictures. And the number of travel blogs is amazing. Apparently travelers just love to share their trips. Some of the even blog and upload the day’s pictures when the stop for the night. Isn’t wireless technology wonderful?

--Beef up your culinary skills. That’s something else you can do online. I think cooking and recipes must be the most popular topic on the Internet. You can start right here on BellaOnline. We have great cooking sites and terrific writers working hard to bring you tasty recipes and other food-related information. Be sure to go to the forums and ask for specific recipes if you can’t find every thing you need. The food editors love to help you with all your questions.

These are just a few of the things you can enjoy while you wait for winter to pass and spring to arrive in all its warmth and colorful glory. It won’t be long now.