Take time to appreciate the little things, like warm woolen slippers and brown paper packages tied up with string
Stacks of cozy blankets and strands of twinkling lights, apple cake baking in the oven and drinks beside the fire —
wintertime is made for savoring simple pleasures at home. Whether you prefer trays of treats or hot, aromatic baths,
celebrating the season is easy with these 14 ideas.
welcoming atmosphere indoors when the weather outside is blustery. For something a little different,
fill glass candleholders or jars with sprigs of fresh greenery and nestle strands of tiny lights inside.
A Tray of Goodies to Enjoy in Your Pajamas
Tea and toast, hot cocoa, a carafe of coffee — just about anything feels special when placed on a tray.
Treat yourself to a few extra minutes in bed on a stormy morning with your very own tray of goodies.
The Scent of Something Yummy Baking
Apple cake, cinnamon rolls, cookies and breads — some of the most comforting aromas in
the world come from the oven. Don’t bake? Buy ready-to-bake cookie dough or a scone mix,
and you can have freshly baked treats (and the wonderful scents wafting from your oven) in minutes.
Neatly Stacked Firewood and a Fresh Wreath on the Door
Who’s to say you can’t enjoy the simple pleasures of a freshly cut stack of firewood just
because you don’t have a fireplace? I say, if you want firewood, go ahead and get some!
A stack looks wonderfully cozy beside the front door. And a simple wreath of fresh greenery
will look good all season — dress it up with a jingling bell or a strand of twinkling lights.
Coming in From the Cold
Getting stuck indoors too much in winter can make us cranky. So even if it’s really cold,
bundle up and get outdoors to enjoy the fresh air, the sound of snow crunching underfoot
and the dramatic winter sky. And remember, being outside (even if only for a short while)
is what makes coming in to warm up so wonderful.
A New Pair of Slippers
Stay warm on chilly winter mornings with a pair of slippers on your feet —
boiled wool, felt or slippers with a fuzzy lining are especially good at keeping cold at bay.
While you’re picking out your own slippers, pick up a few extra pairs for guests and stash
them in a little basket by the door.
A Batch of Hot Drinks
Hot cider, mulled wine, tea, chai, cocoa — take your pick, this season is all
about savoring the hot drink of your choice. When friends come over to visit,
whipping up a batch of hot drinks or brewing a big pot of tea is a must.
Have on hand a selection of go-to add-ins like cinnamon sticks, star anise,
sugar cubes and citrus fruits for easy assembly.
Tea lights, votives, hurricane lanterns, Swedish candle chimes and twinkle lights create a warm and