Tag Archives: cold weather

Managing Asthma in Cold Weather

Trying to exercise in cold weather (that includes shoveling snow!) can trigger problems if you suffer from asthma. Experts believe that the cold, dry air of winter can irritate airways, causing the bronchial tubes to narrow. This can restrict airflow into your lungs! Adding exercise to the mix — your body’s breathing patterns change when you’re working out — can put even more strain on your lungs. For a person without asthma, exercise in cold weather may not be an issue. But for a person with asthma, you could be looking at an asthma attack. You may experience coughing (especially … Continue reading →

Keeping Pets Warm in Cold Weather

We’ve been having an “arctic blast” here in the Pacific Northwest… and boy has it been COLD! I worry about keeping my dogs warm when we’re out walking — I bundle up with coat, hat, and gloves, but they’re out there in just their fur. My dogs Moose and Lally tolerate wearing clothes reasonably well. So if I were to buy them coats to wear, I think they would be willing to wear them. But booties to protect their feet? No way. A hat to protect their ears? Doubtful. So what can you do to protect your pets from the … Continue reading →

If the Weather outside is frightful…

It is that time of year again. The weather can do some crazy things, and that’s even more true if you live in an area that is prone to drastic weather changes. We actually have days here that may be sunny and a nice, warm 75 degrees but drop more than 40-50 degrees by late that night. That’s a big difference in a 24 hour period! Sometimes, it’s even more extreme. Have you ever had the air conditioning on during the day and the heat running at night? I try to avoid such uses of energy, but there have been … Continue reading →

Hot Products for Cold Weather

What could be cooler (or should I say hotter) than great products that help you stay warm, use less energy, and save on heating costs throughout the winter? Electric Throw No need to drag the big blanket off the bed when you want to snuggle in elsewhere. Pick up an electric throw instead. There are many styles, textures, and colors available for under $50.00. Conservation minded folks will appreciate the fact that electric throws can help use less energy rather than turning up the furnace all the time. Electric Rugs? You can find electric rugs and there are also radiant … Continue reading →

Home Week in Review: November 5 – 11

There are many different “rituals” families engage in throughout different seasons and occasions. For some of us, that first gust of chill wind in the fall brings on the nesting instinct. Mary Ann shared this with us in her Baking Day and Reaching Out to Nature articles. Don’t forget to check out the Home Blog archives for past autumn articles as well to see how other writers feed the need to nest. Or, check out past tips for preparing for the holidays and colder weather. I had to share my favorite ways to welcome cool weather too, and I’d like … Continue reading →

Cold Weather Fitness Tips

When the weather is bad, it’s hard to stay motivated. On a really cold, wet day, it’s hard to even want to leave the house to head for the gym or go for a walk. Don’t give up on your health during the colder months! These tips can help you stay warm when the weather turns brisk. Dress in layers for your workout. When you start your exercise, you’ll still be cold and will need the extra warmth. As you heat up, you can take off as many layers as you need to — and put them back on if … Continue reading →

Dangerous Cold Snap

I heard a report yesterday that said some parts of Minnesota are experiencing temperatures as low as 40 below zero! That’s not the wind chill either, that’s the actual temperature. On the news, a reporter showed how the “egg trick” can also be done in cold weather. Normally, they crack an egg on pavement to show how hot it is outdoors. This time, they cracked an egg and it froze completely within about 2 minutes. That’s COLD! Chicago is also experiencing a serious cold snap, as are several other areas. If excessively cold weather has hit your area, please be … Continue reading →

Caught off Guard: Winter Weather Tips

Have you ever been caught off guard by winter weather? If you live in a climate that is generally mild, you not be prepared for a serious cold snap. You could find yourself without water due to frozen pipes, and even worse, you could end up having to replace broken pipes due to freezing. Foam Pipe Wrap Foam pipe wrap is just a simple foam tube, split down one side, with adhesive to hold the edges together once it’s placed on the pipe. It’s easy to use and inexpensive, and it might just save you from dealing with frozen pipes … Continue reading →

Cold Snap Tips

The northeastern United States woke up to some true wintery weather today. Earlier this morning here at the Jersey shore, the temperature was less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit with windchills below zero. After a reasonably mild winter (so far), the change feels pretty dramatic to me. As I write this, I’m bundled up in layers — a tank top, tee shirt, and long sleeved shirt on top; long underwear beneath loose pants on the bottom. Okay, I could just crank up the heat. But with the right layers, I don’t need to! Whether you’re inside or out, keep these tips … Continue reading →

Block Those Drafts

With the winter winds blowing, heating your home can get expensive. One of the simplest ways to help ease the burden is to block drafts, keeping cold air out and warm air in. Many people will simply place a rolled up towel in front of doors, which works, but there are some other options. You can find some nice draft blockers that coordinate with your décor or you can make your own draft stoppers. Doors aren’t the only issue, however. What about windowsills? You don’t want to stuff towels up by the window, so choose from an assortment of attractive … Continue reading →