In modern families, it's been said, the person who holds the television remote also holds the power-not so. The real powerbroker is the one who commands the thermostat.
As the weather chills, many find themselves at war with family members over how warm or cool the house should be. He may want it cooler to save some money, and she needs it warmer for comfort, or vice versa. There is no end to the combination of elements that partners may encounter when the winter winds begin to blow.
To further complicate the cold wars, we now have energy prices going through the roof. Most couples are opting to keep the thermostat turned down a notch. As my dad used to say, "Save a buck and put on a sweater." Today he could have said, "Save a house payment."
Of course, this isn't making the person who wishes the house were warmer any happier. You may have to get a little creative to find a balance of temperature and temperaments
It helps to understand that the person who wants the house warmer is not wrong or bad, and neither is the one who enjoys a bit of a nip in the air.
Our homes don't have multiple climate controls like cars do, but there are numerous things you can do to make everyone happier:
- Try keeping one room at a comfortable temperature for the person who likes it toasty.
- Make sure you always have coffee or tea brewing.
- Cook and bake together to warm up and save energy.
- Exercise together to warm up and stay in shape.
To ward off the winter chill, consider adding to your winter wardrobe. An extra layer can make the cold days not just survivable, but pleasant. There are also dozens of electric blankets and warmers for nearly every part of your body. And don't forget the joy of flannel sheets.
I personally have half a dozen vests of various warmth levels and quite the collection of long-sleeved thermal T-shirts (making it easy for my loved ones to shop for me at holiday time).
If you like the cooler weather, or are generally temperature tolerant, be considerate of your warmth-loving partner. Some people get emotionally upset when the temperature drops, and there can be physiological or even psychological reasons for this.
If you have thin blood, which comes from living in a warmer climate, you probably feel the cold more. If you had an unhappy childhood, where you were always freezing, being chilled can bring up unpleasant memories.
Don't forget that winter is a wonderful time to get cozy with each other. Being warm and nurturing with the one you love is life enhancing, and one of the best things about this time of the year.
