Once I realized that it was inevitable for me to spend another winter in Minnesota, I decided that I was going to try and remain mobile and active once the cold weather hit (i.e. not subject to the hibernation habits of typical Minnesotans). Not that I was particularly mobile and active in the summer, but regardless, being out and about is more important in the winter. Especially given the fact that I’m already prone to depression. And that my attempts to seek out relationships have thus far amounted to disappointment, to say the least. Point being: I can’t afford an entire season by myself.
So I find myself looking for shows on the internet when I get off work. I’m calling all of my friends and asking what their plans are. I’m reading books at bars. I’m going bowling by myself. It’s a lot of work.
One thing that helps, though (and I cringe when I say this) is my job. I drive pizza around. I don’t have to dread going out. I’m already out. People I know want to stay inside rather then brave the weather to try to get somewhere. I’ve been in the weather all day.  Being in a cozy bar watching a band sounds pretty good after spending 10 hours driving the same slushy streets over and over.
I go home, have a beer and change my jeans, and I’m ready to go do something. I get down to my car and it’s still warm. I don’t ever work before 11 am, so it’s pretty hard for me to get too excessive, since anywhere I would go closes by 2 am.
It’s all relative. So far this has been the best winter ever, just because I haven’t really had time to dwell on how much it sucks.