'Tis the season: Winter

One of the beauties of our country is the changing seasons. As fall drifts into winter and our backyards become covered in blankets of soft snow, we're reminded that the True North is indeed a sight to behold. Despite the cold temperatures, find ways to enjoy the best the season has to offer. Here are 10 ideas to get you started.

1. Go tobogganing
One of my favourite childhood memories is trekking up an enormous hill down the street from where I lived as a child. My dad would settle me on my toboggan and give me a push and I'd go barreling down the hill at lightning-fast speed. It was thrilling and exhilarating, and I've never forgotten how much fun those days were. The best part? Heading home for a steaming hot cup of hot chocolate.

2. Build a snowman
Bundle up the kids and take them outside for a snowy adventure. Build a snowman or a snow fort, or get on the ground and make snow angels with them. If you don't have a backyard, take the kiddies to a nearby park. They'll have a blast -- and you will, too.

3. Baking day
Get the whole family in the holiday spirit by letting the kids lend a helping hand in the kitchen. Sit down as a family and choose a variety of recipes you would like to make, and spend the day baking up a storm. Keep a close eye on little ones around the oven, and assign them the fun (and messy!) task of decorating and icing cookies. (Click here for a collection of recipes for holiday cookies, bars and squares.)

4. Plan a game night
Snowed in? Spend an evening playing your favourite games. Whether it's an old board game or a zany game of charades, let your inner child loose. If you have kids who are video game fanatics, how about getting your hands on a console and challenging them to a showdown? They'll be thrilled to see you get in on the action.

5. Read a book together
Turn off the TV and the computers, and choose a book everyone agrees on. Then schedule time every evening to read a chapter together. Take a turn each night and rotate who reads aloud. If you have a fireplace, light a fire and make it a cozy, comforting experience for everyone. This is the stuff memories are made of.

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