For most of us, this will not be our first Minnesotan winter. We know the ropes, and for the next half year (or what will feel like it) we'll bunker down, bundle up, and muddle along until we thaw out in the spring. But what about newcomers to our wonderful land of many (now frozen) lakes?

I was riding home on the light rail a few weeks ago when a man sat down next to me. This was right around our first snowfall, and the temperature was still pretty balmy in the high 30s - low 40s. He turned to me, heavily bundled, and said, "You are very brave, not wearing anything on your head!" I was only wearing a leather jacket at the time, so I half-jokingly informed him that I'm used to this weather and it would get much worse before long.

He was a bit disconcerted with that.

So if you're new to the north, or could just use a refresher while still getting your "winter legs" under you, here is a short list of suggestions to help you survive the winter:

1. Drive Slow

I list this first because it is the most important, and often overlooked even by seasoned northerners. It's really simple. Winter driving can be intimidating to downright dangerous, but if you just take it slow, you'll get where you need to go. It doesn't matter if you have a meeting with Nana or President Obama, they will be much more grateful that you arrive in one piece than disappointed that you're late. Drive slower than you normally would, and break earlier. Use a lighter touch while breaking and turning - slick roads will amplify your movements. And above all, stay calm. That's difficult to say when you're slipping towards traffic, but look where you want to go instead of where you're currently going. And if all else fails, aim for a snow bank. Your car might get scraped, but you (and others on the road) will be safe. And if it's really bad, just stay home. Again, your friends may be disappointed that you're not coming over to binge West World, but they'll be much more disappointed if you have to binge the show from a hospital bed.

2. Bundle Up

This should probably go without saying, but it gets like hella cold up here. The higher the windchill, the faster ANY exposed skin will become frost-bitten. Hand and foot warmers are your friends. Your body will naturally pull warmth to your core, so extremities are at the highest risk for harm from the cold. This is the point in the year where fashion does not matter. Everyone looks ridiculous, so don't worry that you will, too. Pick what is warmest and best-suited for the forecast - whether that be high windchill/extreme cold, snow, ice, or some mixture therein. Dress in layers and peel off extra to suit your environment. It may be delightful inside, but it can certainly get frightful outdoors.

3. Clean Off Your Damn Car

It's not just unsafe for you to only clear a small view hole on your windshield - once you get moving, that snow/ice isn't gonna stay on your car. It takes a little extra time, and means you're out in the cold for a bit longer, but leaving snow and ice on your vehicle is a serious hazard. Pro Tip: get a soft-bristle shop broom and clear your car off much faster. A running theme so far is that people are impatient. Yes, I know you want to get to go wherever you're going as quick as you can and you want to get out of the cold, but don't do so at the expense of your own safety and the safety of others on the road.

4. You're Never Too Old For Hot Cocoa

Warm back up from the frigid outdoors with your favorite hot beverage - tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are always great. If you thought that Keurig was a questionable investment before, I promise you'll get your money's worth now. And if you're just feeling too old for such childish delights, throw in some alcohol for a little extra warmth. Spike your hot chocolate or cider, or check out the web for a new winter recipe. You're not going anywhere anyways, so stay in and stay warm!

5. Embrace The Weather

If you enjoy outdoor winter activities, and it's not dangerously cold, there are plenty of fun things you can only do this time of year. Go sledding or skiing. Check out a skating rink or start a pick-up game of pond hockey. I'm not a fan of ice fishing, but maybe check it out and see if it tickles your fancy. And when the weather's too gross, stay in with friends and play a game or get cozy on the couch with a good movie. Between Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, and Amazon Prime, there is no shortage of fantastic media to binge on. The twin cities also have a fantastic brewery scene to warm your body and soul. Hunker down at your favorite pub or dive and enjoy a brew. Many of the breweries in the area also have board games to play, or as I've previously mentioned, trivia nights.

So let it snow and take it slow.

Winter can suck, but it will eventually be over. In the meantime, there's plenty to do both inside and out. Stay safe, think warm thoughts, and have a happy holiday season!