Winter is the cosiest season of all and there are so many lovely things coming up to look forward to! Sometimes winter can have a bit of a bad reputation without the shining sun of summer, or the bright flowers of spring. Winter definitely has its blessings and, although they might not always be as Instagram-able, they are definitely worth savouring. Here’s 10 of my favourite wintery things that I can’t wait to enjoy throughout these colder months:
- Cosy nights in: These can be enjoyed throughout the year but there is something special about having one when it is a little darker and colder outside. Being able to grab a large fluffy blanket and a bucket of tea, and switching off from the stresses of the day for a couple of hours is such a blessing. I love watching a Disney or Christmas movie, or bingeing on a new Netflix series!
- Winter Fashion: I love wrapping myself up in a big knit, a fluffy bobble hat and some boots. It is the time of year where it’s socially acceptable to literally wear as many layers as humanly possible. Loungewear around the house is always a must, with slippers and pyjamas becoming the perfect uniform to relax.
- Hot chocolate: This drink is the epitome of winter, so grab yourself a large hot chocolate! There are SO many varieties now you’ll definitely find yourself ‘the one’ – my favourite is always caramel, and the more marshmallows the better! If you’re buying one in a café, remember to use a re-usable cup when possible – you’ll save yourself some pennies and help the environment!
- Pretty Lights: It’s a fact that everything looks prettier with fairy lights! Winter proves this, suddenly the gloomiest corners of your bedroom look all cosy. The buildings in town that you usually find a bit ugly or the roads you drive down without taking in the scenery become lit up and suddenly everything just looks so much lovelier! Definitely take some time this winter just to go for a wander and look at the lights – don’t forget to take a hot chocolate with you of course!
- Cinema and Movies: Throughout winter there is always lots of new films out to get stuck into. My ‘to-watch’ list on Netflix just grows and grows every week through these festive months. Going to the cinema is also one of the best winter activities because you can wrap up all snuggly and eat all the snacks in the world.
- My bed = My best friend: Leaving your bed is one of the biggest struggles we face in winter, it’s just too cold to get up in the morning! Especially if you’ve made your bedroom really cosy, with blankets and pillows galore, your bed really can become your best friend… although it makes the mornings the hardest goodbye!
- Snow: This isn’t exactly guaranteed but when it comes, it does usually bring about the chance to make some great memories! It can also cause some stress, but a white Christmas is something we all dream of happening at least once – maybe this will be the year! And of course it is just another excuse for more big scarves, hats and gloves.
- Christmas markets: I’ve tried to keep these winter favourites as broad as possible, but these last few are going to be full on Christmassy as we all know it’s the best bit about winter! I absolutely love a Christmas market as they make you feel all festive and are great places to find some hidden treasures, whilst supporting small businesses. Spending some time just browsing the stalls and sampling the delicious food, is such a wonderful way to spend a winter’s day.
- Coming together with friends and family: This has to be one of the greatest parts of Winter, when the nights draw in and the family gather round. Throughout the year, we can all be guilty of being too busy or distant to spend quality time together. Winter seems to provide some peace and is the perfect time for spending time with loved ones.
- Spirit of Christmas: Although this list focuses on winter as a whole, the spirit of Christmas is one of the fundamental reasons why it’s the most wonderful time of the year. Remembering the reason for the season and seeing communities come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus is such a special time. There are lots of ‘extras’ going on around Christmas but remember, keeping Jesus at the heart of your celebrations is key and taking some time to spread His love is the true spirit of Christmas.