Who doesn’t love pulling on a cozy sweater on a cold day? It’s like getting a hug from the universe when you feel the weight and comfort as the sweater settles around you. You even hug yourself when you put it on… don’t hide from it, you know you do! Ladies, is there anything better than swiping your man’s sweater? That oversized, cologne-scented, hug of warmth keeps him close when he isn’t there! Guess what? It is Sweater Day! You have a great reason to dive into his closet and pick your favorite without feeling guilty!
History of Sweater Day
Beginning in the early 2000’s Sweater Day has been a great tool to get people thinking and talking about energy conservation. This holiday not only lets us show off all the gifts we get from Granny, but lets us dig deeply into our closets. Remember, this isn’t Ugly Christmas Sweater Day, but Sweater Day. What’s the difference? I’m glad you asked! While Ugly Christmas Sweater Day is a great time to get goofy, Sweater Day is about being serious.
It reminds us that when we don our sweaters, we can turn the thermostat down. We can lower the amount of fuel that is needed to keep us toasty in the wintertime. Do you hate it when those winter fuel bills show up? Does it make you feel like you need a fourth job? Have you taken the time to think larger than that and wonder what your fuel use does to the environment? This is the day to think about all of that.
Even the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) supports this holiday as the earth and all the animals on it are heavily affected by the various uses of fuel. Pollution sickens the sky and water. Overpopulation increases the amount of fuel needed and therefore makes it more difficult for the land based animals as well. But it is not all doom and gloom on this day I assure you!
How to celebrate Sweater Day
Yes, take some time to investigate your fuel needs and costs. Get a good idea of where you stand financially and environmentally. Then, gather the family together – sweater-clad of course! – and talk about it. See if you can make a plan to reduce what you use. Did you know that if an entire nation just turned their thermostats down by two degrees it would be the same as taking over 700,000 cars off the road! Make a game of it and see what other facts can be found.
If you have children, take them to see all the wonderful animals at zoo, park or aquarium. Talk to them about how conserving energy will keep the animals growing and well for years to come. Or conversely how many animals are now extinct or on the endangered species list. Take the day to make an adventure of finding causes in your community that as a family you can help make a difference in!