Yes, it’s winter in Akron, OH, again. It happens every year — or so I’m told.

And what do I hear over and over while shopping at Acme or standing outside the Winking Lizard? “Winter stinks!” (or some explicit variation thereof).

Really, folks? Does winter in Akron stink? It’s cold, I’ll give you that. And, yes, traveling is a bit more arduous than it is during the other seasons. And, yes, it’s cold. But it sure is pretty!

Have you driven down the oak-lined streets of West Akron yet? With the roofs and bushes and driveways all covered in white? Have you taken a hike in the MetroParks on a sunny winter afternoon yet? Have you seen kids sledding down the neighborhood hills yet? Have you ice skated down at Lock 3 yet?

Perhaps the event calendar is a little more sparse in these chilly months, but there is definitely no lack of things to do in and around the city.  My opinion may be a bit biased because I am one of the few who actually enjoy cold weather over the heat of summer (you can always put on more layers). But still. Come on!

Even if you don’t want to wander outside, there is much fun and comfort to be had in the house: wood-burning fires, hot cocoa, good books, sweaters, slippers, soups, movies, radio, dreaming of warm climates…

Wait. Maybe that’s the point, though. Even if you really can’t stand winter, you have to appreciate the fact that the short, dark, chilly days create appreciation for those long, warm, sunny days of summer.

So suck it up, Akronites. I can take the complaining, but you’ll have to endure my rebuttal if I hear you.

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