9 things to do in Winters !

By Irtiqa Sheral

Let’s start with the obvious, winters are here! The morning chill probably tells you that better than me. Considered in some parts of the world e.g. London, a grey and gloomy season, for Karachites, it is a time to rejoice. Finally having been spared from the scorching summer heat, a dreamy and sometimes cruel coolness has engulfed us. The embrace leaves some in romantic sighs, whilst being unwelcome to a few others. Regardless of which group we belong to, we know that every phenomenon is meant to complete its course. As we cannot speed up time’s caravan (nor do we want to for that matter), here are a few exciting things you should definitely do at least once this winter, and make it into one that you’ll feel nostalgic about when recalling.

1. Eat Ice Cream:

Taking things to the extreme is what living on the edge is all about. Though I know eating ice cream may not sound so adventurous, but having mouthfuls of cold ice cream on the chilliest day of this winter is what you have got to try. Give yourself a pat on the back if your throat starts squeaking. And anyways, that kind of voice is so alluring, no? Just in case, your parents find out where that stain on your shirt came from, remember, you don’t know me!

2. Have 'Moom phali' in a blanket:

It’s a tradition to be followed. The feel of a warm blankie draped over you, whilst you are munching down on good old moom phalis with a loved one, is appealing and familiar to many. If you are not one of them, you are missing out on potential soft, touchy memories which will be etched in your minds for a long time.

3. Preserve the environment:

This month, even comparatively indifferent people can evoke a little environmental concern and patriotism by promoting conservation of resources in your own home. So buck up Al Gores! Okay, that may be exaggerating a bit, but whatever it takes to convince you to abandon your air conditioners and reduce if not completely stop your electrical fan use.

4. Spend an entire night on a rooftop with coffee:

Now this, as with many other things, is going to be most fun if done with family or friends. Call for a slumber party and remember to follow its only rule, no slumber! Coffee is going to keep you awake, but there should be other scrumptious snacks to pass around as well. After that, in the words of Salman Khan, “Do whatever you want to do man!” Update statuses about your night, post pictures every five minutes, gaze at the starry sky, gossip, but most importantly, pick on someone and laugh the time away. ( We be nocturnal predators! Haha, get it? I do have better jokes jbtw.)

5. Three B's (Bonfire, Barbecue and Beach):

The above-mentioned three B's are quite popular as ways of celebrating winter. However, when combined they offer the real thrill of the season.

Having a bonfire and barbecue together on the beach will be an experience you’ll want to relish again and again. The sound of the thrashing waves, the sight of a beautiful fire, and the smell of appetizing meat will alone be enough to arouse and satiate your senses.

6. Experience speed:

Experience speed against the coldness all around you. It will make you warm and ecstatic.  All I can say is, it’s a one-of-a-kind feeling. You can do that in several ways e.g. riding a bike or bicycle, or running very fast. Ride the bike carefully (yes, I need to say this) and as for running, you can make it even more enjoyable by racing a friend. Try it!

7. Like I need to tell you what to do in a winter shower:

Ah, winter rains! All I can say in this one is that whenever it trickles or pours, there is much more you can do on the occasion, than just becoming weather broadcasters. (Not that I’m against it. Free world!)

8. Attend a wedding:

This is a must. Winter is the most romantic season of the year, and thus there are lots of weddings taking place in it. Weddings can be boring, but once you let yourself go, you’ll realize there is so much to do in them. Listen to the melodious tunes being played, see the brilliantly choreographed albeit occasional dances, stare at the bride and groom and then comment on how they make or do not make a head-turning couple etc. But most importantly, keeping tradition alive, lunge at all the food you can.  If you are one of those who sadly happen to be invited at no wedding this time around, learn from the movies.

9. Wait for the Pafian Hoodies:

The finalized design is not a personal favorite of some (including me), but we all await it. Talk to your friends and give each other catchy words or nicknames to put at the back. Hopefully, when you complete the above list, the hoodies will have arrived.