Glad to here you're coming our way, artyst! I'll be interested to hear your impression of the area.
And winter is what you make of it, like anything. In my experience, it definitely helps if you can find some sort of preoccupation in the winter so that you don't get too down on account of the weather. As a student here in Rochester, NY, I definitely find that the overcast and blustery winter months make for perfect studying conditions. I think if I went to school in a warmer climate I would have a lot of trouble getting things done!