Even the hardiest of us can get down in the dumps during the long Maine winter, so we have a few suggestions on fun ways to lift your spirits.

As my New Jersey-born husband reminds me every year, Maine is not an easy place to live. Winter weather can stick around for as long as six months here, with ridiculously short days and dreaded phrases like "wind chill." For someone who grew up on the beach, it's not an easy adjustment to make. And even for those of us who grew up here, it can be hard to keep our spirits up by the time we hit February.

Actually, those winter blues have a name - Seasonal Affective Disorder. While not every case of feeling down in the dumps over cold weather qualifies as SAD, doctors have told me that they see a lot of it in this state. It's that feeling that winter is never going to end that causes you to get depressed, feel tired all the time, and be reluctant to leave the house. But there are ways to deal with it.

The clinical solutions suggest coping mechanisms like spending some time under a special light that helps replace the sharp decrease in sunlight in the winter. But we came up with some ideas of our own that are fun, interesting, and will help you feel more engaged in life. Don't hibernate. Winter can be a beautiful time if you let it. And, hey, Spring is just a few months away. (okay, that wasn't helpful) Next time you're feeling blue about the colder months in Maine, try a few of these suggestions to brighten your mood.

10 Fun Ways to Overcome the Maine Winter Blues

Everyone needs a little pick-me-up during the long Maine winter, so here are some suggestions of activities that might help make the cold weather and short days a little more bearable.

Gallery Credit: Cindy Campbell

8 Places In Maine to Go Winter Camping

If you are looking for a way to take in winter in Maine and really go for an adventure, try winter camping in the Pine Tree State. Here are 8 places to go on your wild and frigid excursion in the great Maine outdoors.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Nickerson

30 Bangor Area Mom-and-Pop Convenience Stores

Convenience stores are a lifeline for a community. Here in the Bangor area, we have our share of little mom-and-pop, one-of-a-kind stores that hold necessities for your everyday life that can build a community with its presence and offerings. Here are 30 of these convenience stores in and around the Bangor area.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Nickerson

More From