Last week, the students at Lewis Cass High School had a nice little break from school due to the winter storm and subzero temperatures that caused almost a foot of snow in Walton. The students of Cass were stuck isolated in their homes, for the most part. If this were to happen again this winter, it would be smart to plan ahead and have some ideas in mind of activities to do around the house. The last thing someone wants is to be stuck inside their house, bored with nothing to do.
First off, it is important to make sure everyone is safe during this chilly season. People should always check the news and weather reports to know ahead of time if a winter storm is brewing; this way, they can better be prepared. Make sure to stock up on food, water, blankets, warm clothes, and other necessities. According to the American Red Cross Association, during a winter storm, an individual must plan to stay warm. If it is below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, it is probably smart to stay indoors. If someone must absolutely go outside or has to travel, it is critical they dress properly, in many layers of clothing. For Christmas this year, I asked for heated socks, gloves, and hand warmers. All of these are important items that may help someone if they experience a cold-snap like last week.
When students are stuck inside their homes, it can get pretty boring, pretty fast. Students cannot drive, or should not, so they cannot go anywhere in their free time. After every early virtual call, or after I finished my e-learning, I could never think of what activities to do. One day, I remembered a couple of my loved ones’ birthdays were coming up, so I looked online and found ideas to make them homemade birthday cards. It kept me busy for a couple of hours and lifted some of my boredom. Arts and crafts are always a simple hobby anyone can do with limited supplies necessary.
Since I could not run outside (sadly), I kept up my daily physical activity by running on the treadmill. Staying indoors sometimes makes it harder to work out or get in some exercise, but there are so many at-home workouts online anyone can do, even if you do not have any workout equipment. Getting any form of exercise will help improve mood by releasing endorphins, which make you feel good. This can help when you are feeling gloomy from being cooped up inside all day.
Another hobby, or at least a productive activity, that kept me busy was cleaning. I attempted to keep my room clean throughout the break and cleaned it when it got messy. Each day, I would make my bed so I kept a clean, tidy bed to rest in at night. I organized my desk and bathroom drawers, and also cleaned out and organized the items in my Jeep. Most students do not enjoy cleaning; however, in doing so, they can feel relieved and a sense of accomplishment. Although the actual cleaning part might make people stressed or annoyed, the end result will leave people feeling calmer and happier. Most people might clean and organize their closet on a snow day.
According to AY Magazine author, Alex Hardgrave, there are numerous activities and hobbies to keep anyone occupied during a winter storm; trying to solve a puzzle keeps someone busy for hours on end. Baking or cooking can be a way for someone to test out some new recipes they have always wanted to try. Creating a blanket and pillow fort and watching movies is something anyone can do at any age. Having an at-home spa day is an activity that some can get behind; this can help anyone to feel more relaxed during a possibly stressful time.
I was curious to know what other activities and hobbies other students from Lewis Cass were doing at home on their days off, so I asked sophomore, Madalyn Lynch what are some activities or hobbies she did over the little winter storm break. She responded with, “I finished my diamond painting and watched Pitch Perfect for the 500th time.” Diamond painting is on the rise, I have heard. Do not get confused by the name, though; someone does not, in fact, paint with diamonds. Diamond painting is a relaxing craft that involves applying tiny, shimmering resin rhinestones onto a pre-glued, color-coded canvas, creating a vibrant picture in the end. I can see why this would be popular, but I just do not have the patience for it.
Next, I wondered if Lynch enjoyed staying home instead of coming to school. Lynch replied, “I stayed in my bed where it was warm and cozy, but I was bored because I didn’t really leave the house. I did love staying home. The virtual days were alright, but I would’ve preferred going to school with a 2-hour delay.”
If students happen to experience another winter storm or blizzard, the students at Cass will certainly be able to stay busy with all these fun and up-and-coming activities.
