The most magical month of the year is here! The really cold weather is here to stay in Houston. I grew up in Jamaica, where it’s warm all year, moved to South Forida, where it’s warm all year, and then moved to Houston, where it’s supposed to be warm all year! You see a pattern here? I am a warm weather girl!

Each year, like a bear, I go into hibernation. Well not literally, but I stay away from alot of outdoor activities and stay indoors where it’s warm and toasty. There are a few things I love to have around me when the going gets cold – things I like to call my Winter Survival Kit - Which I’m about to share with you!

• My winter outfits are designed to keep me warm but most importantly to look super stylish. Leggings are a life-saver on really cold days with knee high boots and a tailored coat. For the not so cold days, leggings and a bad*ss leather jacket with sky high stiletto booties

• Changing up your interior decor for the winter helps to bring some warmth and coziness. Adding colorful accents that pop will bring in some fun and personality, and help you survive the cold winter. My winter survival kit each year always includes swapping out accessories, window treatments and pillows or adding throws, layering area rugs and bringing in lots of flowers and greenery.

• And of course the ever important Christmas decorating. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say that Christmas decor is a part of their winter survival kit. Spending time with family and friends, Christmas celebrations at church and throughout the community, volunteering and giving back to the community are also key things that help me survive the winter.

• And the biggest winter survival item is my birthday!!! Yes, I am a December birthday girl….the 12th to be exact! I’m gonna party like it’s 1999!!

• And finally, a list of random items that are dear to me and bring me comfort and warmth during the winter season. Vegetable soup and fruit salad always warms the heart. A nice bubble bath with candles all around is very nice every once in a while, a favorite scarf, favorite books and magazines for lazy Sunday afternoon reading, and luxurious body and hand creams to restore softness to my skin. Oh the joys of winter when you have a winter survival kit!

Veronica Solomon