It’s been a long time coming, but winter is finally here! I’ve been waiting for it, and I think you should have been too. As we all wish for a blanket of snow this holiday season, allow me to give you 5 reasons why I love winter.

Reason #1: The crisp, fresh air.

During the winter, you don’t get any of that sticky air. The frizz in your hair settles, the sweat on your face dries, and you look at your warm breath in the cold air. I once tried to explain the “crisp air” of the early fall to a friend from the humid city of New Orleans but to no avail! The confusion on his face said it all. It turns out crisp air is a luxury for us in cold cities we should savor it.

Reason #2: It’s layering time!

Take out that puffer jacket and those fleece-lined tights – it’s the layering season. If you know me, you know that I will take any excuse to wear my scarf. So, with layering being back in season it’s such an exciting thing for me. And as I walk to school every day I see everyone in their hats and gloves under their jackets. Layering adds such character to our outfits. Get ready to bundle up!

Reason #3: It’s gift giving season.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or any other holiday, we can all agree that the gift-giving season is pretty great. You may be anticipating what everyone in your life has picked out for you, carefully crafting your wish list, or happily buying gifts. Are you ready to give the most thoughtful gift in your friend group’s Secret Santa exchange?

Reason #4: So many days off.

During December and January, we have so many days off. Winter break is something students look forward to the second they return to school after  Thanksgiving. And rightfully so! Are you going on a snowy ski trip? The adventure to the (very cold) winter wonderland of New York in December? Or perhaps you’re going to spend your break curled up in bed, sleeping the day away. You have quite a few options on how to spend your break!

Reason #5: Snow!

Last but not least, snow! Every year as a child, I wished for a white Christmas! When snow falls, everything becomes magical. As trees and roofs of houses begin to be coated in white snow, you can see the world become softer. This year, perhaps we can wish for a snow day. Who knows, anything could happen.

Now, if you’re a winter hater, maybe you have a little something to look forward to during this chilly season.