Missionary Winter Survival Guide

Cold. Bone-rattling cold. That is how I would describe the winters in my mission in Montana and Wyoming.  It’s a slap in the face to a missionary from a place like Phoenix, Arizona. I spent two winters up there which is about a year’s worth of snow out of my year and a half. I would get advice here and there from different people who have lived in the snow, but it’s different when you’re a missionary. You’re outside more than the average person and have no choice but to face the weather all the time. So here are a few things that saved my toes and sanity throughout the mission.

• Keep a quilt and survival kit in your car in case you break down or get stranded in a blizzard. (Trust me. It happens.) Include food, water, candles, matches, a toothbrush and any toiletries you can’t live without. An extra pair of clothes may even come in handy. 
• Buy the fuzz lined mittens and put hand warmers in them. Gloves separate your fingers and the heat they produce. Mittens keep your fingers together and if you put a hand warmer in there, you trap in heat from them in there too.
• Don’t skimp on boots. I did and I regret it. Cough up the money if you value your toes and happiness. (Sorels are the best.)
• Socks are an obvious necessity. Wool socks and “35 Below Socks” (socks with aluminized fibers) will save you. Often time you need to layer them too.
• Fleece lined leggings. Lots of them.
• A snow coat that goes passed your torso. Cover as much as you can with your coat while still being dignified.
• Layers. Beanie. Scarves. Long Johns. Toe warmers. Electric blankets. Anything to cover your body is what you want! 

These are just some ways this Arizona girl came home without frostbite. Hopefully if you’re going out to serve in the frozen tundra like I did or you’re planning a winter trip up in the northlands, these tips will help you!