Winter: we Winnipeggers love to hate it — and with good reason.

Every year I ask myself why I have chosen to remain in this flat, windy city for yet another cold, depressing winter. Every year I manage to convince myself to stay, yet I don’t know how or why I do.

The holidays have passed and many of my ex-pat Winnipeg friends have flown into the city long enough to hug family and friends before taking off again for their newly adopted homes in warmer climes. I must admit that upon questioning, none of them have regretted the choice to leave, citing the bitter winters as what they miss the least about this city. This should make me even more doubtful about remaining in Winnipeg, but somehow, I actually feel a bit more proud of my tenacity.

I have come to the realization that it is after enduring the frigid Winnipeg winters that summertime becomes so much sweeter. We Winnipeggers know exactly how short summer is and tend to make the most of it. This spirit may be part of the reason why so many of us stay. Yet no matter how deliciously blissful summer is, we still have to endure the torturously long winters.

The good news is that there is one secret to unlocking the joys of winter. Yes, it really is quite possible to enjoy the snow and cold weather. All you need to know is that it’s all about snowpants. That’s right, snowpants. They will never be sexy, they are not fashionable and they are not even particularly comfortable. But if you wear them, a new world of outdoor, snow-filled goodness awaits you.

Honestly, a pair of snowpants will change your life. So get yourself a pair and go Krazy Karpeting. Build a snow fort. Lie in the snow and look at the stars. Check out the Fesitival du Voyageur. It doesn’t matter what you do, just get outside — it will make you and winter much more bearable.