• The winter blues come during colder months.snow image by Marek Kosmal from Fotolia.com
  
  The winter blues is a condition that occurs in the winter months, when people become depressed and get the blues after being cooped up inside and surrounded by snow and ice. To defeat the winter blues, engage in a series of activities that will improve your mood and remind you that spring is just around the corner.
  
  

Animal Tracking

• Animal tracking in the winter is an ideal way to take advantage of the lively outdoors, even when most trees and greenery are dead. Check out a wildlife book from your local library or make a list of animals you know remain in the area during colder months. Animals like the American turkey, squirrels and deer can be found in many northern areas, and tracking their movements is an outdoor activity the whole family can get involved in, no matter the temperature.
  
  

Planting

• Remind yourself that spring will emerge soon by planting some small house plants that can survive with less sunlight. Plants like the philodendron thrive indoors with a minimal amount of sunlight and produce an abundance of green leaves, which you can snip off and put in vases to spread around your house, which adds greenery even if there are no green leaves outside. Even better, consider building a greenhouse outside your home where you can grow whatever plant you like year-round.
  
  

Game Night

• Take advantage of the indoors with a family game night. Light a roaring fire to make your living room cozy and inviting, and dim the other lights. Lay some cushions, pillows and blankets around your coffee table and encourage your family to sit on the floor to play. Pass out winter treats like hot chocolate and s'mores, and some hot toddies for the adults. Make sure to close the curtains to block out the snow and ice outside.