l'occitane shea butter: it is a bit expensive, but well worth it when you have kids with eczema patches, cracked hands, and chapped lips. put it on your and your kids cheeks and lips before a romp in the snow. i keep travel sizes in every bag and car we have. a little bit goes a long way. don't use too much or you'll feel a bit slippery.
smartwool socks come in a close second for me. warm, washable, and natural fibers in sizes for the whole family; my kids love them as much as i do. my feet are always cold, and i am not about to start wearing my ugg boots in the house (i know they make slippers too, but they don't come up high enough for my cold bones!). midwestern winters really make this a worthy investment. don't forget to check out their other products too, they make much more than just socks.
ugg boots: say what you will about these super popular boots and accessories, in my book they are simply great. mine have lasted four years already, the baby booties were passed through 2 kids and could last at least one more. my daughter has worn hers for two years (buy one size up and you'll make it through two years). i am willing to invest in more expensive products when they last and ugg boots certainly have for me.
cetaphil gentle skin cleanser for my face, body, kids, and hubby. some people love it and others hate it, but it works for me. it keeps our family's skin in tip top shape and soft as can be. use it with or without water.
so hunker down and enjoy the cold weather for the great stuff it brings in to our lives: skiing, snowball fights, snow angels, hot chocolate by a fire, snow men, sledding, ice skating etc...lots of fun and cherished times with our family. happy winter to all!
