We had a blizzard come through last weekend and we’re just now starting to really dig out. The kids had three days off of school and some areas in Maryland have off the rest of the week.

I had the funk for about three weeks starting around Christmas. You know the one I’m talking about. What’s worse was that Charlie was off school for winter break and we had a million things we should have been doing.

I’ve put together some of my favorite things to have around the house to make sure you’re ready to get you through winter! Kids home due to break or snow days can get tough, especially if Mom’s not feeling well. We all know Mom is not allowed to be sick!

Coloring Books

This is not just for the kids! I’m sure you’ve seen how popular coloring books for adults are right now, so grab a few to keep on hand at all times. When you can’t get out of the house to do active things, pull out some coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, or markers and get your color on!

When you’re not feeling well, you can color with the kids and you’re doing something together without putting forth much energy. If there’s snow on the ground and you’re spending extra time inside, coloring is a perfect inside activity.

Sweats and Leggings

I don’t care what anyone says, leggings are pants. If you’re not comfortable wearing leggings as pants, get yourself a nice pair of sweats. I think the last time I wore actual jeans was about two weeks ago.

To survive winter, you need to be comfortable! And… if you’re wearing sweats, you’re already partially ready to go outside and play in the snow!

Chloraseptic Spray

Like I said earlier, moms are not allowed to be sick. If you’ve had a sore throat, you know the pain, but as a parent those struggles are even worse.

Can I successfully yell “Did you wipe?” upstairs when I hear the toilet flush when my throat is sore? Or how about the pain that’s going to come with every time I have to say “get your butt off your brother’s head”? These are things I never thought would be a problem before having kids, but it’s real.

To make sure I’m on my top game as Mom, I keep Chloraseptic® spray in the medicine cabinet. I love the new Cherry flavor! As the #1 pharmacist recommended brand for sore throat liquids/sprays, they give me the immediate relief I need. You can pick up Chloraseptic® products at mass retailers, major drug stores, and grocery stores nationwide. Grab a coupon before you head out!

Prepped Meals

Whenever I can make my life easier, I try to do just that! Freezer meals are a great way to be able to get food on the table, even when you don’t feel like it. Some of our favorites are Creamy Turkey & Noodles, Lasagna Casserole, and Sausage Puffs (perfect for breakfast).

If by chance you don’t use the ones that you have store in the freezer, they make great gifts for those that are under the weather or new moms.

Your Favorite Hand Soap

Whatever your favorite hand soap is, stock up! Although I think you should always be washing your hands, it’s extra crucial to surviving the winter.

Washing your hands often with soap and water is the best way to prevent the spread of the common cold!

A Flu Shot

We get flu shots for our kids, but adults need them! The CDC recommends a flu shot for everyone over the age of 6 months. You can get one at your doctor’s office, a clinic, or a local pharmacy. While it does not prevent the common cold, it is the best way to prevent the spread of the flu.

The flu is a devastating, serious illness that could put you out of commission for a week or more, or even worse, land you in the hospital with pneumonia! As a mom, I also need to worry about infecting my little ones with a weaker immune system.

You can keep ahead of the flu this season with Chloraseptic’s online Cold + Flu tracker. To check for outbreaks and symptoms in your area, go to http://clvr.li/1Nq4cl4, click on Cold + Flu Tracker and enter your zip code!

Binge-worthy Shows & Movies

If you’re stuck in the house, you’re probably going to want to catch up on some TV shows and movies that you may have missed.

Check out these Snow Day Movies, all themed around snow. Personally, I love getting sucked into a show and being able to run through multiple seasons at a time. There’s just something so satisfying about binge watching.

A Warm Winter Hat

Whether you’re running to the bus stop or playing out in the snow, you need a warm winter hat. I’ve had the same one now for years and it certainly does the trick. Another plus to wearing a hat like this is it (mostly) hides the mess that may be hidden underneath.