Baby, It's Cold Outside

Happy Monday Chicago,

The first cold spell is upon us and I just want to remind everyone about a few tips in traveling and keeping warm this winter.

1) Dress for warmth. Please wear appropriate clothing, even if you drive everywhere. You never know when your car will decide to break down. Layer clothing, so you can take off pieces when you start to get too warm. Of course, you want to keep the "cute" factor, but remember, cold is not discriminating and you don't want to get frostbite for fashion.

2) Winterize your car. Make sure you have an emergency kit that includes, working spare tire, flares, warm blankets, water, jack, jumper cables and some type of snack (pretzels, goldfish, etc.).

3) Leave a 1/2 tank of gas in your car at all times. This will help you to stay warm, should your car stop or you get caught in Chicago's traffic, especially if there is inclement weather. Today, people are stranded on I-65 and some have been there for 12 hours. Don't get caught unprepared to defend yourself against the elements. You never know when you will have to get out and walk, a few blocks, mile......

4) Winterize yourself, kids and spouses. Make sure you lay out gloves, mittens, boots, hats, scarfs the night before. I have found this very helpful to prevent against the "have you seen my.....". This ensures that no one leaves the house unprotected. Also, I buy extra gloves to stash in their backpacks, work bag, gym bags, just in case.......

6) As annoying as cellphones are, it is very important to keep them charged at all times in inclement weather. Even though I find it a nuisance, you don't want to be stopped in your car and be unable to call for a spouse or roadside assistance.

5) Check on your neighbors, relatives (whether old or young) to make sure they are warm, comfortable and eating. Just last Friday, I made a meal for one of my church families. They are going through a tough time, and I wanted to let them know that they have a village of people that care for them. Especially, at this time of year, people become depressed and can become despondent. No one is too busy, to help someone else out. So, keep an eye and ear out for someone else's pain.

Finally, just be practical, safe and warm. As much as I complain about the cold and how long winter is, it was actually very pretty this weekend, as Chicago became blanketed in white.

Here's to a season of hot chocolate and hot toddies....

Peace and Love,

Sandals

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