Winter is putting up a good fight this year, and we’re all going just a bit stir crazy waiting for the snow and ice to clear. I miss green.

Really, I miss color period (except brown, grey, and white). The snow has lost its appeal and is now discolored by road sludge, doggie potty breaks, and mud.

I’m looking forward to the day my dog and I don't lose our excitement over going for a walk as soon as the front door opens and we get hit with a wintry blast of air so cold it hurts to breathe.

Winter bites, but the end is in sight. To keep your sanity, you might want to watch for these warning signs of cabin fever.

1. If you look like this, it’s time to get out of the house:

2. If you’ve resorted to dressing up your dog for entertainment:

3. If dog bearding has become a regular event at your house, it might be time for some fresh air:

4. If this is the look you give your spouse when they mention this week’s weather forecast:

5. If this your face while watching the snow fall after you just shoveled the walk:

6. When someone mentions it’s 80 degrees today in Forida:

7. When someone says, “Grab your stuff, we’re going to the store:

8. When you overhear someone planning a tropical vacation:

9. When you try strange things to amuse yourself:

10. And when you’re ecstatic just to be outside, no matter what the temperature:

Follow Gary Paulsen’s  seventeen day journey during the Iditarod dogsled race. This thrilling first hand account is a must read for all snow dog lovers. Follow along on their journey from Anchorage to Nome during this famous competition.