I've previously mentioned my adorable 300 square foot cabin that I called home for a couple of years over in Lincoln. The one thing that always really bugged me was the poor insulation. It didn't bother me (necessarily) because of the increased heating costs; it was mostly the lack of light. In an effort to help sure the place up a bit (and stop the curtains from blowing in the wind…with the windows closed!) I added plastic to the inside and outside of the windows. This made a huge difference in the overall comfort of my home but sacrificed any sort of natural light coming in. It wasn't "dark" but it was not all that bright on even the sunniest of days.

I say all that simply to say that lighting, especially natural light if you can get it, is really important to most of us. In the winter when our daylight hours are diminished, it becomes even more important to capitalize on the natural light we get as well as incorporate some simple tricks inside the home when the sunlight simply isn't around (like during these awesome snowstorms!). Although we're on the upswing as far as day length goes (Winter solstice was on the 21^st) let's explore a few ideas and maybe you'll find a couple that can brighten your home for the coming months.

We just had our sliders replaced on the front of the house. Since the old ones were beyond crappy, I always removed the screens from them in order to take advantage of the extra light and lack of banging in the wind (I told you they were crappy!). I made sure the installers showed me how to do the same on these new doors as well. We also follow suit (with screen removal) on the windows that provide the best view and the most sunlight.

Not only does this provide a clearer view for us but also comes with the added benefit of allowing more sunlight (and heat!) into the home. I've noticed many windows are coming with the option of half screens as well. This is great for those of us who have views out of the top of our windows. It allows me to leave the screens in place, but still take advantage of the great sunlight and view. One little note I will offer (for those of us removing screens) is to put them someplace safe (read: safe from being kicked or stepped on) in the winter. The last thing you want to do is have to buy new screens every spring!

This next one is a bit controversial. Oddly enough, I am enjoying mine as I write this article this morning (because it is still pitch black outside). Hanging string lights (It's OK, you can call them Christmas lights if you want) inside the home is a simple way to add some additional (and fun!) lighting to your home. It goes without saying that a Christmas tree adds a certain glow and "feel" to your living room. Don't be afraid to spread that cheer (and light) throughout the home. Now, don't go crazy and transform your whole house into a freshman's dorm room, but some accents on a bookshelf or (like me) surrounding your office desk can make a world of difference during those dark months.

We have a window just behind our kitchen sink. The view is not spectacular but it does face south and offers some great light all day long. Just last week I climbed up on the counter and cleaned that bad-boy for the first time since early spring. What an amazing (and embarrassing) difference! "Clean windows, although nobody's favorite chore, make a huge difference in allowing light into a home and warming up a room," notes Badger Peabody & Smith Realty agent (formerly Badger Realty), Tara Peirce. "Even just tackling the interior windows will make a big difference this time of year," she continued.

While we are talking about getting the light into the home how about we touch on photosynthesis? OK, there won't be a science quiz after this but adding plants and flowers throughout your home is another great way to add some life and light. We can all appreciate a little touch of spring when the entire outdoor landscape is a sea of white. Adding plants to the home will not only bring some life in but will also focus your efforts on ensuring that they have adequate light to thrive. Think of it like buying a dog because you want to get out and walk more!

The last tip for today is also the easiest. Hang a few mirrors around the house. While this does not necessarily create more light, it will certainly maximize the light you have. In particular, mirrors are quite effective in hallways and smaller rooms. If you are not a big fan of seeing your face (before coffee) all over the house, you can always take them down this spring. The annoyance of seeing your mug all over the house is a small price to pay for some added light and a better mood.

I hope you are reading this as you're flying out the door to go play in the snow! If not, maybe you can incorporate a couple of these tips around your home so your evenings (and snow days) will be a bit more pleasant. Either way, have a great day!