5 Ways I'm Staying Sane This Winter (Without Breaking The Bank)

[@ellengill360]

Your channel is the cure for toxic positivity. Thank you.

[@AccordingtoNicole]

🙌🏼

[@lepipadi]

Hurray, we saw an eyebrow, and we like it!!

[@WaterRabbitVirginian]

Indoor gardens anyone? I converted a large closet for basil, strawberries and lettuce. The grow lights help lift the mood.

[@billiespencer9670]

Girl! I think I love you. You are funny as hell, and educational. I can't stand the freaking winter either. Poor Levi having to take a shit outside! Well, good material, and keep it up. Merry Christmas. Please don't go out and buy a bunch of stuff. If people expect you to buy them a gift, fuck em. 😊

[@Richard-or2km]

Who"s stopping Levi from taking a shit INside, I don't think he'd care too much, if ya gotta go ya gotta go!😉

[@MalScott-e4v]

Merry Christmas Grinch 😂

[@Richard-or2km]

You liked that one, it comes from years of experience cleaning up after my sister's dog!😀Not all that pleasant the times he had the shits, and the aromas emitted were of gag worthy proportions to say the least. 😁@@MalScott-e4v

[@Richard-or2km]

I knew someone would react to that comment. Merry Christmas & HNY.

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

I feel for you. I hate winter. The woodstove & a good book will get me through. A bowl of hot soup or stew with a corn muffin makes it even better. 😊

[@whosaidthat4299]

I haven't made cornbread or muffins for along time, now I will!

[@MikeS-7]

Nothing beats the mesmerizing sights and warmth of a wood stove.

[@maureenwilliford8985]

There’s nothing wrong with your credibility. Anyone who thinks you do this for purely altruistic reasons isn’t living in the real world, so, just ignore him. You’re quite well-spoken and I love these suggestions. I, myself, am an avid reader but not just new books. I have a small library of older books that I love to read again and again maybe once every year simply because they bring me joy and inspiration. I’m also a self taught knitter, something that has almost become an addiction. Happy Holidays, Nicole.😊

[@lenelenore]

I love re-reads! I always start the new year off by reading through all of the Discworld books by Terry Pratchett, and ever since I started reading the Chronicles of St. Mary’s and the Time Police books by Jodi Taylor, I also do a re-read of those. Those books are all comfort reads for me, and it helps bathe the new year in a positive light for me right when I most need it, (i.e., right after the stress of the holiday season.)

[@kellielaine5848]

Music and great movies on dvd.

[@wilsonle61]

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a thing. I lived in Syracuse NY for 6 years and worked in a secure computer facility. I would go to work at 7 AM (in the dark) never leave the building till 5 PM (in the dark) and would not see the sun during Winter for days on end. It really FCKD with my emotional well-being. Vitamin D and ultraviolet lamps can help.

[@iamjane9628]

I love you, Nicole. You are wicked funny and smart. I look forward to every new video from you. I am old enough to be your mom, and I live in the U.S. , but I would love to be your best friend in real life. I hope i don’t sound like a crazy stalker. It’s just that I meet so few people-especially other women-that I relate to. Hanging out with you would be a hoot.

[@brucemorris3830]

SAD can affect you in the opposite direction also. I swear I have never recovered fully from the couple of years I was forced to work 7:30pm til (with almost daily mandatory overtime) about 5-6am. In the wintertime i basically didn’t see daylight, and in the summertime I never saw actual DARKNESS. I truly and fully don’t think I’ve been quite the same since that time and this is like 7 years ago!! Idk how people who live way into the polar circles ever adapt to this, because it messed me ALL up

[@kahvi-p5t]

Me too. This winter, I finally acknowledged that I have SAD and took those measures. I started doing winter sports too :)

[@jadedelarge8929]

I get all my books and movies from the local library. The service and materials are really good. Besides that, I get all kind of free help, with technology, printing, doing my taxes (I'm a senior), courses, etc. I go to the senior's centre por many perks (fun courses, good priced meals and snacks, etc.) I do pay $32 a month for a gym membership, but I get to exercise and have unlimited massages (chairs, hydro beds) that my body really needs. I am on a fixed income and my rent is almost 100% of my income. It's tough, but I am managing so far following a tight budget and using my savings. I guess it can be done because I have no debts.

[@cyclingonplants7444]

I used to enjoy the library but unfortunately one can bring home bed bugs from library books. It happened to my father-in-law so no thank you. I guess you could do a workaround by sticking the book in a Ziploc and freeze it for a while before you read it but I don't have any spare freezer space to use for this purpose. Maybe I'm just paranoid but a bedbug or other kind of bug infestation is not my idea of fun. I do agree that the local library has excellent services for people of all ages.

[@johenderson3742]

Wow! Lucky you having all those services avail in one place. I can only dream of that. 😂

[@MikeS-7]

Winter is an incredible time. Nothing I love more than kicking back and relaxing next to my wood stove. It is incredibly relaxing and mesmerizing and for someone to that is frugal as well I heat almost entirely the or free. I know people with electric bills that range from $300-$1k plus. Me, $50-60 the to dollars. A book, podcast, interesting weather and a wood stove (large viewing window) is heavenly. Summer is work work work... There is always something to do. Actually, more to do then there is time in the day. Winter is peaceful. The best time to hike and travel as well.

[@skywalkershaun1]

I love winter time. We moved to the north east coast mostly for the winter. I love lazy days of staying warm and doing hobbies like models, painting, buying new guns and parts, watching movies, and doing all that with the wife. I love going out and flying my drone while getting beautiful footage of the snowy landscape. This winter we are going to drive to the coast to get photos of lighthouses in the snow. Just because it’s cold and gloomy doesn’t mean there isn’t beauty.

[@SmilingBeaver-ou7nc]

My Daughter purchased a flute for me. I was reluctant at first, but I am enjoying it.🎶

[@jinxminx55]

knitting is a great hobby in the winter - and you can make things like hats and scarves. I always have some project going, whether it's an art project or scanning in all my photographs so I can get rid of the photo albums.

[@MrsLadyLiberty]

Finally started socializing, finally caught COVID. So I'm isolating this Christmas. But I'm in Colorado where at least we woke up to snow on Christmas Eve. The little things.

[@AccordingtoNicole]

Feel better!

[@Tierradelasaranas]

I left the East Coast for Southern California 20 years ago because of SAD (and job opportunities). The cost of living here is outrageous, but the “sunshine tax” has been worth it, IMO. I also love “fluff thrillers.” “It’s One of Us” was an enjoyable one I read last week!

[@carmennedelea4995]

haha, you have a terrible weather there in Canada. Romania has its share of winter weather too, but this Christmas here in Bucharest the weather is warm for Dec, sunny, no snow, but Jan and Feb are round the corner, I think the winter will come. I spend my time reading, paper books, but only world literature, no motivational books, I hate these. I also speak 4 foreign languages, besides Romanian, so there is from where to chose. We read a lot in Romania, at least my generation, we were educated to read, not so much the younger generation. Love your weekly videos! Merry Christmas from Romania.

[@paulmanning4901]

Good move to keep the coffee machine

[@AccordingtoNicole]

I feels a bit excessive, but it’s fun.

[@Tah-V-ah]

You are the most insightful, clear minded and well structured , down to earth individual ive seen yet! From what you say to the ways you say it, just hits right home and sometimes it's right in people's face, but you stand your ground and come swinging back with wisdom and I truly admire that in a person! Happy Holidays to you and Levi.

[@sandrabryan9106]

I was going to take a free to seniors university course this winter but health got in the way of that. However, I am planning on writing 5 different forms of poems to learn the structure. I also will be painting/ drawing images to go with the poems created (preparing to publish). I also want to learn how to make an Amish rag rug this winter…I don’t know why! I do the usual things like baking and reading and will continue. Another strange thing I do, is play Sims2 to create imaginary lives/ design houses/ etc/ yup I play the older version that I got at the thrift store with all the add ons. I think you might be able to download for free now. Maybe I I will work on my pitch for a new Canadian tv series. Lots to think about

[@VanessaChats]

As you're a minimalist and enjoy being conscious of your spending, unsure what it is like where you are however I did exactly what you did in the bookstore at my local library. I went into the adult non fiction section, and randomly went through the aisles and then when I felt like it I would pick out a random book or two to borrow and take home. What I enjoy about this is that having the "due date" on the book/s helped hold me accountable to read it instead of 'doom scrolling'.

[@WaterRabbitVirginian]

Worked two jobs for 20 years. It was the only way I could get out of debt.

[@v.h.7180]

This image of you, smiling with Levi next to you is lovely! ❤❤

[@dianeeyestone2040]

I enjoy listening to your perspective on life. I am 78 years old and, somtimes you amaze me. Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

[@victormarian7889]

I 'm blessed, since I do speak French, Italian, some Russian and Arabic, beside mentioning English is not my vernacular. Only the best wishing, A Merry Cristmass and good health !

[@paulo5861]

I go to Florida in a small tow behind trailer to escape the snow. Great video mixed with humor.

[@67NewEngland]

- I don’t try to force positive thoughts and emotions. I just try not to go down a rabbit hole of negative thought. Going to a town historical society or less crowded museum is a good routine changer. Walks in preserves or nature trails is also therapeutic, weather permitting. I live in a cold northern region too. It’s a good time to unwind from a busy summer.

[@robinedwards8796]

I recently signed up for my county library online and was immediately given access to hundreds or thousands of digital books and other media. I've been getting into cooking lately too. I go down learning/research rabbit holes and occasionally come across something helpful for people I know.

[@nancie7487]

10:56 KZbin is the new TV. That didn't have the commercials, but lookout now it does. Although I love your channel and your commercials, are very helpful and useful !! I will continue to watch you every morning to start my day with a very positive note !!

[@esterdrass4964]

I learned to appreciate the winter in a way that I could not in the summer. In the winter, I do take up something new. For several years it was sewing. When I felt like I got that down, I took up guitar lessons. I have always taken up something and last year it was bicycle repair classes in the winter. I generally go somewhere warm for a week or even a long weekend in Jan and Feb and maybe March, depending. By April, I see hope. While the long dark days make me NOT want to go out to do anything, walk, gym, restaurant. Because, I have to warm up the car forever and by the time its warmed up, I just want to take a hot shower and go to bed. But I found the indoor stuff is fine, the learning new things. Sometimes, I actually find myself looking forward to winter. Because summer is so busy, and those long hot days make you feel like YOU NEED to be doing something all the time. Home from work, then maybe a walk or bike ride or go to the beach or meet friends at an outside restaurant. Take boat rides, take day trips. It's a time of the year when you just keep going. So, sometimes winter is just a nice break from that. Oh, also a spray tan helps if you are really pale and want to feel like you have been someplace sunny.

[@ronaldzeoli7528]

You are wiser than your years of age. I watch a lot of you tube to lesrn things and enjoy things i'am intrested in. I have added you to my collection of great you tubers . Thank you for being you.

[@nancynickerson4341]

If saving money is important, you could pick out a book at a library instead of a bookstore.

[@Themrcesar53]

I think it's a good idea to support bookstores because a lot are dying out. But yeah if money is an issue a library is a way to go.

[@robertlodder4744]

​@@drc3pothe writer gets paid for writing the book. Or do you work for free? I don't say books are cheap. Merry Christmas and hopefully a good 2024

[@takc4628]

Library has more than books. DVD, Blu-ray movies. Free cooking classes. Plus other stuff. All for free.

[@rebeccaalbrecht771]

@@Themrcesar53 I always go to a bookstore or order from a bricks & mortar bookstore. i never order from amazon or other large businesses like that.

[@irememberla6460]

Or use the neighbourhood mini libraries located on the streets. Give and take!

[@amelanevaljalovic67]

Perfect timing for such vid! Thanks Nicole.

[@MyMy-tv7fd]

tip: the dark makes it worse. Buy a couple of lamps and switch them on in your living space. It helps. Incidentally, love the blowtorch. Try making wine instead of beer. It is in some ways easier and it stores very well - a lot of wines require at least six months in the bottle to mature. If you make sweet red wine it will always be a popular present, even if you do not like it, and lasts for a long while in the bottle

[@schuylergeery-zink1923]

I’ve been getting into gardening and really want some fruit and berry trees and grapes so I can do homemade all the way. Wine is a nice way to enjoy gardening in the summer and enjoy drinking in the winter lol 🥂

[@vickym9221]

Definitely starting a KZbin channel, TikTok, or podcast this year. I've been a freelance personal finance writer for over 5 years now, but I'm tired of not having a platform of my own. I want to express my own opinions on these topics instead of feeling pigeonholed into giving generic personal finance advice. The mainstream media does not acknowledge systemic barriers to success nearly as much as they should, so I want to talk about it. Thanks for the dose of inspiration on that front, it's so true that there are many, many creators earning an average income from KZbin these days, which is motivating!

[@teejaylecapois9741]

My dog Harriet and l are fans of your channel. Very smart and relevant content. Sending you positive energy from the NCR. Peace.

[@TheREALJosephTurner]

You killed me with the Wonderwall bit! 🤣 Another hobby suggestion for people like me (those torn between wanting social interaction and not wanting to be out among people) is amateur radio. It's a hobby that can be nearly as cheap (or expensive) as you want it to be. I started off a few years ago with a transceiver from the mid 80s that was gifted to me, a homemade dipole antenna, and $25 worth of coax cable to join the two- and I've talked all over the world with this cheap setup! Plus, it's a hobby with many sub-interests. You can do normal voice talking, you can do Morse code, hook up your computer to the setup and there are about a dozen digital modes. I've recently started dabbling into SSTV (sending images over the airwaves). You can get into working satellites, and even make contact with the ISS! It's a great hobby that you can do indoors or even outdoors (Parks On The Air, etc). And when I'm not doing that, I'm practicing on the drum set or (badly) attempting to play guitar. All because I, too, hate being cold. Another suggestion is to keep watching According to Nicole. It works for me!

[@kathikapp6707]

I moved south and summers were insanely hot yet could have bad snow and ice storms! I ended up in Colorado, which can have really nice winters or really cold and snowy, yet real hot summers sometimes! 😂 I grew up in North Dakota on a farm and learned to entertain myself by sewing clothes, doing challenging jigsaw puzzles, crochet useful things for myself and gifts (mittens, scarves, hats), doing indoor workouts, crafts, the options are endless! Hey, for the record, I enjoy your snarky attitude 😅!

[@cycleguy666]

When I lived in the North Eastern United States I enjoyed the winters.......shoveling snow and preparing for the next day at work. Weekends doing chores,shopping for the week ahead, reading, planning for spring and summer, house projects, motorcycle maintenance and upgrades. Just keeping busy till the snows were gone. Now I live 500 miles south.....still cold, minimum snow....still cold....... still my same winter projects and entertainment. All good here. Less shoveling and snow blowing!! Sold the blowers.....kept the shovels!! Hahaha 😁 😅😊

[@edkrstic6423]

Thank you and Merry Christmas

[@cj222100]

I call those types of books you were talking about 'airport novels'. One of my favorite 'airport novel' authors is Clive Cussler. Sometimes he even makes cameos in his own novels😂I highly recommend his Sam & Remi Fargo series, they're absolutely ridiculous & I love them! Ruth Ware's thriller books are really entertaining as well-I wouldn't go as far as to call them airport novels, but at the same time, they're not something you're going to sit around contemplating the meaning of lol

[@schuylergeery-zink1923]

Yes! As an author I write what I want to read so personally I balance entertainment value with the message and theme. That way you can just enjoy the story at face value but if you want to do deep dive on theories or thematic parallels you can also do that and have fun with it. My first series is the Crescent Crown Saga and I have a kindle vella called A Promise So Dark & Wicked. If you like dark fantasy romance/urban fantasy/paranormal romance 🌙 ✨

[@paul_domici]

Cooking and baking bread is def a great hobby of mine! I tried to perfect the home made Chinese food also but it's too hard to perfect! I wish they sold the exact sauce they mix at the restaurants!!! Great Video and Merry Christmas Nicole!!!

[@AccordingtoNicole]

3 tbsp light soy sauce 1 tsp dark soy sauce 1 tbsp veg oyster sauce Splash of sesame oil 1 tbsp on shaoxing wine 1 tsp sugar 1/2 tsp pepper Pinch of MSG

[@paul_domici]

Thank you Nicole!!! You're amazing!!!@@AccordingtoNicole

[@kimward5862]

Music is my winter hobby. I have a spinet piano and am so thankful for my grandmother sending that down the family heritage.

[@raymondsimmons1617]

I find that being able to handle the cold is just as important as finding things to do inside. I go on walks in almost any weather by using base layers.

[@brendareeves2593]

Nicole, I'm no fan of cold, but after the hot-as-hell summer here in Mazatlan, Mexico, I would change places with you. It lasted for five months. The problem is I'm a sunshine junky. Cold or hot, either way, you're stuck inside. I like your idea about learning something new. I love your channel.

[@AccordingtoNicole]

Ok I’m down. Let’s trade.

[@brendareeves2593]

You would love it here now. All the Canadians are in town, too.@@AccordingtoNicole

[@maximumdangerman1682]

Always wait for the quiet 15 minutes with no one around to watch your videos. Keep up the good work. Merry Christmas

[@Bikemaddad]

You’re a legend buddy. I’ve just kicked my channel back into gear as well after a three year layoff. Merry Christmas to you and a prosperous 2024. Boom 💥

[@McGuire40695]

Great video as always, Nicole! Merry Christmas! And i definitely agree about learning instruments and doing KZbin as a hobby. Loved playing guitar for 15 years, and have a music channel on the side that I do for fun. Both are such great outlets for new skills

[@-All5ofus-]

Loved hearing you play, even for a second! My husband bought me an acoustic a few months ago, and I've yet to pick it up, but I plan to!

[@shedlife1783]

I live in England. The winter does my head in. Oct to April is mostly shite. Wind, rain and cold.

[@wendybauman4074]

You. Crack. Me. Up. 😄 Thanks for the laughs! (Loved the kombucha texts with your mom.). I am a reader and culinary deep diver too. My deep dive this winter will be yoga and meditation. Merry Christmas! And may you have a Stellar 2024! 🎉

[@brucemorris3830]

My best advice for surviving winter? Learn to embrace the winter sports. I grew up downhill skiing, skating on frozen ponds, cross country skiing (though I SUCK at that lmao), snow shoeing, etc. If you dress in layers (and cover your face/ears/neck/head correctly) and stay moving those sports are my favorites. I hate doing athletic things where I get hot & sweaty, so the obvious solution for me was to do most of my athletic stuff in 0 to -10 weather 😂😂😂 (yes I converted to Celsius even though I’m American)

[@cossackgirl_ZP]

I am so happy you exist. Thank you for your videos. You are very smart and real. You are no bs, down to earth, so honest and refreshing. Your videos truly give me comfort and remind me to enjoy my life better.

[@sinajasminhess5004]

I love winter cause it’s quiet outside 😌

[@Sofia-OneWheeler]

Hey Nicole, please share the recipe for how to make a great stir fry! Thanks! You rock!

[@AccordingtoNicole]

I share tons of recipes on Patreon.

[@allardvanderstarre5238]

ilike reading about photograpy glass, records,muziek, guitars and such

[@conniemassie2496]

Great video of Nicole, i’ve had a guitar in my closet for probably about 17 years. It came free with my Volkswagen beetle in 2007 , It matches the car. I never thought about going to KZbin to learn how to play now I’m actually excited about winter and learning something new take care happy holidays.😊

[@schuylergeery-zink1923]

Although I took formal lessons for violin and piano when I was younger and my dad taught me the basics on guitar… I used KZbin to learn the banjo. I’ve been playing part time in my band and writing songs for over a decade. We make decent money on the side just playing a couple or more gigs a month with my band Frailin’ Hearts. And tho it’s still a labor of love it’s FUN to play. You can also just play for yourself tho and I’ve written songs to heal from hard times and celebrate good things, too :)

[@ExpatJourneyOnline]

Great sugestions!! Similar to starting a KZbin channel, one might consider starting a blog to share thoughts about things of interest. I wasn't interested in learning all of the video editing stuff, but I can blather on about my interests in writing for hours! 😃

[@gingerstrait836]

Merry Christmas Nicole and Levi. Thank you for you thoughts!

[@schuylergeery-zink1923]

I LOVE winter. I love being cozy next to our wood burning stove with coffee in the morning and hot cocoa in the evening (or glass of wine on occasion). I love playing with our dog in the snow and cuddling with our cats. I love slowing down and when I’m inspired I’ve got my best novel writing done during these times (when I slow down and don’t have much going on and it’s not stressful - BEST creative times). So I am producing things that make me money which are fun to do + don’t COST money! (My books are Crescent Crown Saga on kindle and A Promise So Dark & Wicked on kindle vella if you’re interested).

[@marilynsue4273]

Goodwill and other thrift stores have books for sale. Sometimes the book hasn't even been read.

[@shivangiagrawal2665]

The chat with Mom was hilarious

[@pamdoneen654]

Great video! Winner can be difficult, so thank you for the ideas😊❤️

[@PraiseGod428]

Have a Merry Christmas! I love your sense of humor and your great advice. I wish you more success this coming year!

[@theesilverghost]

Hmmm... if pooping in a blizzard could get me out of working... As I commented on Patreon, despite my no-buy January plan, I want to dig deeper re: language learning. Unfortunately Lingoda doesn't offer Italian, but I will check the site now and then because I would be happy to use your referral code. Additionally, reading will continue to be a passion for me, and I will break my knitting hiatus to knit a baby blanket for a pregnant coworker. Finally, I want to challenge myself to indulge in some creative endeavours -- writing, painting, art journalling, whatever. Via my library, I have free access to the Creative Bug site, but there are several local artisans offering courses that I can explore come February. Happy Holidays!

[@barbieminimalist3109]

Great suggestions, Nicole! Some I do, some I'll try. I no longer buy books. Borrowing from my local libraries are good enough since I almost never read a book twice, hate to dust anything, and hate to spend the money. Even better for me than physically borrowing a book, I get audiobooks and downloadable books through the library's app.

[@rdoody2067]

Thank you, I love your individualism. For this winter I have planned a number of projects. I recently overhauled and upgraded my a mountain bike that I bought 30 years ago and intend on using it for bikepacking. I plan on sewing a frame pack and some other items for this bike. I recently bought a refurbished heavy duty sewing machine and this is one of the many projects that I have planned for this machine.

[@TimeToStartOver]

I'm sitting on my couch watching birds I feed on my balcony. No TV, but a window. Sounds exciting, right? 🤣

[@AccordingtoNicole]

That’s Levi’s favourite activity.

[@elainemeyer3076]

I am going to learn to make braided rugs from old t-shirts and to upcycle old denim jeans into to something I can sell

[@seajayami]

Enjoyed this video - a bit different than your usual fare and still snarky. Yes!

[@Rockerlady]

KZbin has great language lesson videos.👍

[@sallyprzybil2404]

Great ideas. Yep. I’ve had to accept that the best I can do at piano is, “slightly less awful”

[@2024FingersCrossed]

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@brandonlee1163]

I appreciate the bit about learning a language. It's done a lot for me.

[@KimClark61]

Merry Christmas!

[@richrobin5747]

Enjoy your channel. Like both content and presentation. Your analysis is spot on. Thanks.

[@hugshoney3409]

Even though I do not know snow, I think that I understand what you are saying. Maximize your time. I am trying to learn a new language as well. Peace🎉

[@johnepperson8867]

You have the ability to motivate people, Nicole. I also like the fact that you're to the point. When you get too cold up there, come on down to Florida for a while 😊😊.

[@lalablotz7348]

Girl you’re young and single. Pick a goal date, make a plan and MOVE YOUR ASS TO A WARM CLIMATE ☀️ If I was young and single I would do exactly that.

[@ltwig476]

I agree , pick up a hobby art such as music, painting ..... I have been painting winters only for many years and finally has turned into something. The other thing I think is worthy for folks who are not that artsy is buying and selling online. It has a bit of learning curve, learning the idems under- priced and reselling at market value. Some people find that sort of thing as great entertainment and accomplishment. Except it is one of those things that requires a lot of hours research. If done haphazardly, you waste your time and funds gathering worthless junk. I really hate retail sales so definitely not for me. Winter will be over in just 9 weeks, get some shit done, you been putting off. Merry Christmas. See ya next year!

[@ccccccchhhhhh808]

You're comment about Hawaii 😂 I actually live in Hawaii and jokes on you is been raining the past few weeks today might be the first nice day in a while lol. But in all seriousness, even in tropical paradise I still get the seasonal blues. Doesn't get dark as early but we've had some dreary weather lately. I've taken it as an opportunity to get more rest.

[@SandraMayer-z7i]

Nicole you are wise beyond your years. Love your down to earth no BS channel. Merry Christmas to you from Buffalo, NY! ❄️❤

[@lenelenore]

This video was timely for me! Last year was my year to do a deep dive on learning how to cook a wide variety of my favorite Mexican dishes, and I’d already decided that 2024 will be about making perfect donuts (our little town is sadly lacking in both great Mexican food and donuts.) I’m also planning to learn beginner level watercolour painting, and I want to finish my first novel. I’m 63, and lord knows I need to keep my brain from going stale and ossified. Heh. I genuinely love the cold and gloomy days of winter, so my impetus for this isn’t the same as yours. But I always find your videos thoughtful and interesting. Thanks so much for sharing your perspective and your inspiration! I look forward to your videos. Hope you’ll have a great new year!

[@joshlowell3075]

Try using 'healthy soy brand mooshroom soy sauce' and 'Kadoya pure sesame oil product of Japan'. When stir frying.

[@Chivorn-dr4sf]

Tu est super cool Nicole , ne lâche pas 😊

[@marycaswell6894]

🎄Merry Christmas Nicole & Levi from Wisconsin where it's cold🎄 Love your channel. ☮💜

[@bethanyg153]

I’ve thought about setting up a Science KZbin channel. I have my M.Ed in elementary education but teach 6th-8th grade science. There’s 2 really old guys teaching high school. I could consult them or even start the channel with them. Sometimes it really comes down to the length of the science video. Like I might have 15 min to kill at the end of class. but all the videos I’m seeing are just 2-4 min. I think there could be a spot for me.

[@Agapy8888]

You and Prepper Princess make life rich.

[@AccordingtoNicole]

she scares me.

[@Agapy8888]

@@AccordingtoNicole Why?

[@CassieDavis613]

Merry Christmas to you and Levi!

[@jayplays568]

Thanks for sharing this video. May I also suggest looking into cross stitching? I took it uo a while ago, it's a great hobby, not just in winter. I've found it to be a fantastic way to relax but still engaged just enough, plus you get to see incremental progress towards the fimished design each time you finish a session.

[@RJones-tn5vg]

I trust your guidance on surviving the wintern especially since you're a cynical Canadian. Your advice is much appreciated.

[@eduardonunosantos6098]

Thanks for this vídeo. Sometimes i feel crazy as well. ❤

[@pattycake8272]

You are right, I want a second job but don't want to get off my couch once I get home from my 9 to 3 o'clock job. I don't want a second job to try to tell me I can't take time off on a 2 or 3 day vacation. I need to fight some battles here. As long as it don't require me to get off my butt I guess lol. Thank you for your inspiration

[@markbajek2541]

You should have become a teacher they get lots of time off

[@pattycake8272]

@@markbajek2541 very true.

[@jilliandavis4773]

Merry Christmas, Nicole!

[@joshuaclewes1883]

I wish we had some cozy winter weather here in England it’s too warm

[@thomascoleman7301]

Congratulations on owning your home at such a young age.. but damn does that look like a nightmare, I've always hated apartments and subdivisions where the neighbors are ten feet or less away😵 Sunsets here at 4:30pm during winter(earlier for the people in the valley down below) reading and/or watching documentaries while snuggling with kitties and puppy are great ways to make it through the winter during the dark hours. *most books are available as free .pdfs 😎

[@Anonymous-jk5uu]

I like the recommendation about doing a deep dive. I think that's where I am at in my life, I'm looking for something more intellectually stimulating but also new to learn about.

[@Anonymous-jk5uu]

Also if you go onto making coffee if you are curious look into white coffee. I just heard about it it sounds like a myth.

[@burnedoils]

merry xmas 2 u and ur beautiful dog, madam dog and madam dog's dog!

[@luckyone4881]

You and Levi should come to Florida and we do lots of free stuff here!

[@ElephantShoe..]

Do you use hairspray or how do you get your bangs to stay out of your face?

[@alexandraguy2931]

And merry christmas to you!