As the snows of winter cover the grass and the houses of Long Island, the frost closes in. Those remaining in the northeast, who do not have Florida reservations, are faced with bleak choices.

1) What will I do for exercise?

2) Will the weather allow me to get around and do my shopping?

3) What will I do for entertainment?

These questions should actually be contemplated in the fall or even in the summer. How you will spend the dark, dreary months should be pre-planned with real care. Quoting Robert Burns - leads us to "The best laid plans of mice and men often go astray."

However, plan we must for the oncoming wintry days.

The neighborhood squirrels have been preparing for many months and so should we, the mere mortals:

* Locating a gym with treadmills and walking devices is a marvelous idea. Barbells and weight-lifting machines, hopefully, will be in abundant supply. One can work up a glorious perspiration exercising, even in the dead of winter months:

* Long Island has many indoor tennis courts. Putting together a winter game is a wise move. The group should consist of a least eight players of more or less equal ability. Only four players will enter the court, but because some may be in the south, you need double the amount of registered participants. The indoor game is gratifying even if the lighting is not as good as playing outdoors in full sunlight.

* Rent, borrow or buy books you always wanted to read.

* Visit your local library, Blockbuster or video store for recent films to see at home, viewed under a warm blanket.

* The movies are also a wonderful way to get out of the house. Escaping into a dark theater with a fistful of popcorn knows no season. It is enjoyable all year-round. Try to find escapist films that are set in tropical areas, to complete the fantasy. Look for people in swim suits.

* Cuddling is another way to pass the time. Also snuggling.

* Make sure there are enough milk, eggs, fruits, vegetables, meats and snacks in the home, because a sudden snowstorm can hinder our mobility. Remember the squirrels!

* Bridge, Pinochle, Gin Rummy and assorted card games, Mah-Jong, and Billiards are other outlets for the survivors. Personally, I have become an addict for the television card game of Texas Hold-em. I have turned off basketball, soccer and tennis machines to view this fun brand of Poker.

These are some of my ideas. I'll bet you have your own ideas.

Spring is coming! It comes every year! Goodbye Winter!