By Karen and Erica

1. Sleep late. You did take the week off, right? And go to bed early, with a good book.

2. Think about your New Year’s Eve outfit—even if it’s just you, at home. Think sparkly. A new year is always something to cheer.

3. Make some complicated meals. Because that’s what winter calls for.

4. Try to talk your children into taking a family vacation with you next year. Use bribery if necessary.

5. Winter has just started. Learn how to make spiced cider and mulled wine and hot buttered rum.

6. If you like that sort of thing, plan a ski trip.

7. If you don’t like that sort of thing, make a list of friends who have homes in places that are warm when your place is cold.

8. Make sure you go out for at least a short walk every day. Hibernation is only for bears.

9. Get a large and beautiful puzzle for those freezing sleety days when you might have to hibernate a little. Do the puzzle with one of those hot drinks.

10. Go see West Side Story. In the theater. Hopefully.