As each year passes, I’ve found myself loathing the winter months more and more. Although I’ve always loved a good snowstorm, I long to spend hours outside each day but temperatures in the 30s or below just do not make that possible, especially with small children.

As the holidays came to an end this year, I found myself contemplating the coming months… a cold and long New England winter… and what they would look like for my boys and me. Shamefully, the first thoughts that came to my mind were gray, lonely, depressing, and boring. But as I looked at my little guys and thought more, I realized I could not waste at least three months of our time together feeling glum and inevitably allowing that to wear off on them.

Something had to change and that something was my mindset. I decided this winter was going to be the season I truly embraced the concept of hygge – an old Norwegian term meaning a quality of coziness and comfort which fosters a feeling of contentment. And I would do it along side my boys so I could show them that no matter the season, you can adapt and find joy and peace.

So rather than plan some adventure every day of the week and always be on the go, I’m embracing quiet time at home. Early yoga before the sunrises and my boys wake up. Slow mornings filled quiet music, snuggles, books, hot coffee and playing. Homemade meals that my older son always participates in preparing while my 5 month old sits on the counter to watch. Afternoon walks in the woods followed by cozy fires in the living room. Reading, writing, and puzzle making while the boys sleep. Twinkling lights even after all the Christmas decorations have been put away and candles burning in the late afternoon. Prioritizing time with the people who mean the most to us and planning family dinners, movie nights, and game nights.

My always-on-the-go, restless soul is quieting down and finding peace. And all because I decided to take control of my thoughts, these precious days are not going to waste merely because it’s cold and gray outside.

Happy 2024 and happy winter, my friends. May this new year bring you peace and contentment.

Love, Jessica