Nisma Rafiq

Saudi Gazette

 

Winter is one of the four seasons, in which days are longer, temperature is low, and the days are short. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, temperature is not as low as in rest of the world, but there are few cities where snowfalls.



In Jeddah, the weather has shown some mercy, and the mercury has dipped. Jeddah, Makkah and other cities recently even witnessed rainfall and hail, which has lowered the temperature and weather has become cold here. It must have become hard for you to wake up and go to school early in the morning when there is almost no heat.  Yes, that’s winter!



Winter is not all that lazy and slow. Just like other seasons it has its delight. There are many who love the cold wind and find it amazing. The days are long, even after you are done with your last prayer of the day there is plenty of time before going to bed. So what to do?



Don’t get bored, there is plenty of fun things you can do throughout winter and enjoy it as much as other seasons.



Relish the Yummy Soup



It’s the best weather to have your favorite soup even if you are not sick. It keeps your body warm and provides with the energy to stay active throughout the day. Nothing beats the winter chill like a steaming bowl of soup.



Hot Chocolate



The best weather to have this hot drink is now! Warm up the winters with a cozy mug of your favorite hot chocolate.



Hot Shower



We feel lazy bathing in winters due to cold and prefer skipping it. But hot shower before going out relaxes you and you’ll be able to feel fresh the entire day.  It can also help in a good night sleep.



Go Ice Skating



Skating on ice is a favorite sport or past time activity for many. You can visit amusement parks like Al Shallal and Iceland to practice this physical activity.



Movie Time



Watch a family movie with a cup of hot chocolate and a bowl full of popcorn.  It never gets old.



Good Book



Read a book other than your school book before going to bed. It will provide you with active imagination and a good night sleep.



Wear your best dress



Winter gives you the chance to layer on your favorite scarf, boots, sweaters, hats and jackets. You can wear any color or fabric without worrying about the heat.



Make a breakfast



On weekends, help your mom prepare a healthy, heavy and warm breakfast to keep you active whole day. Make pancakes, cheese sandwiches, and mouthwatering omelets.



BBQ



Plan an outdoor BBQ with friends and family along the seashore or a lush green park. It will keep everyone warm and happy.

Dry Fruits



They are the best winter delights keeping you warm and healthy by boosting your immune system.  Doctors say eating dry fruits like pistachio, pine nuts, almonds, raisins and peanuts is good for health and keep you energetic in long days.



Did you know?



Tree and plans stop growing in winters. Many animals migrate away from cold places to warm areas.



Quick and Easy

Hot Chocolate



Ingredients

*3 tablespoons of Nutella

*1 1/3 cups of milk



Method

*Put Nutella and 1/3 cup milk in small saucepan over medium heat.

*Whisk until blended.

*Add remaining milk, increase heat to medium high, and whisk until hot and frothy.