BY NICOLE GERSZBERG AND LIZA STRAUSS

Snowflakes falling, icicles forming, fingers numbing in the blustery air: these are the signs of winter. Some treasure the upcoming icy months, while others are not as eager to greet Jack Frost. But whether you like it or not, winter is on its way. Here are some ways to make it through the upcoming chilly months.

Even for the most diligent of MHS students, it's difficult to resist the temptation of running outside in the bright, inviting snow while work is nagging. If you’re drowning in homework while the snow falls and are in desperate need of concentration, whip up a cup of hot cocoa, topped with mini marshmallows. The warm boost of caffeine will soothe nerves and revitalize concentration, while giving a gentle reminder of the frightful weather outside.

Luckily, there is a wide and delicious selection of hot chocolates and other warm beverages to choose from. Cocoa, on Boston Post Rd., offers a highly acclaimed mug of its hot, eponymous product; if your car is not winter-street-friendly, simply boiling some water to accompany a packet of Swiss Miss at home works just as well.

With preparations for midterms coming up, a full mug might not be enough to energize study sessions. Try Cosi’s “make your own” s’mores. Grab some friends and gather around a mini campfire while appreciating Cosi’s warm atmosphere. A fan of Cosi’s DIY treats may also want to try making peppermint bark or a maple-ice lollipop (an especially wintry treat, made by pouring hot maple syrup on snow and scooping it up with a spoon).

     The winter months are not all about toasty delicacies. As the temperature begins to free fall and the common cold starts to spread throughout the student body, we break out the tissues and, of course, the cough drops.

     Keep in mind, however, that there is no better remedy for a case of the sniffles than a piping hot bowl of chicken soup at Nautilus Diner. Burrowing in a cozy blanket or a Snuggie to warm up is also recommended to beat the winter chills.

Holiday tunes have already begun to play on the radio and our breath is visible in the air, so get into the holiday spirit by taking advantage of these warm winter “fixes.”