As winter nestles in for the season, the chilly air chases us inside, and all of us at Blue Cottage Land look for the season's more simple joys. Here are five fun & relaxing ways we at Blue Cottage Lane enjoy:

Snuggle Up with a Warm Drink
There's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm beverage to fend off the winter cold. Whether you enjoy classic hot chocolate, a spiced chai latte, or calming herbal tea, take a moment to get cozy with your favorite drink. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a dash of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.  Our favorite is a calming tea from Taylor's of Harrogate Spiced Christmas tea.  It has a bit of citrus and spice, made with black tea and is a lovely mid-morning or afternoon drink. 

Connecting Through Story
If you have children (of any age) in your life, try setting up a tent with fairy lights!  They can use it as a quiet space to read on their own, or you can cozy up with them! If you’re ready to get creative, try telling a story… either a classic you remember or one that you make up yourself.   A beautiful and helpful site we use as a resource for family storytelling is The Legendary Connection.  Click on their link to find a vast library of kid-friendly tales!  A bonus is their beautiful book and images!

Set Up a Cozy Reading Corner
Dive into a great book by creating a snug reading nook at home. Arrange a comfy chair or bean bag, add soft blankets and pillows, and create a warm atmosphere with gentle lighting. Whether you prefer a thrilling mystery, a touching romance, or an inspiring memoir, losing yourself in a book is a delightful way to relax and relieve stress.

Enjoy a Winter Walk
Don't let the cold trap you indoors.  We try to get outdoors and get some fresh air, if all of us are up to it, we bundle up, wear our warm study boots, & venture out for a chill stroll in the snow. We enjoy the quick workout in the fresh air, & enjoy the peace.   Afterwards, we sometimes have fun with a nice hand scrub with Blue Cottage Lane's Pumice Sugar Scrubs. They are a great way to just give a gentle scrub and leave your hands feeling a bit more moisturized.  You can find them here!  

Host a Movie Marathon
Winter is an ideal time to curl up on the couch and indulge in a movie marathon. Choose a theme, gather your favorite snacks, and prepare for a day of cinematic enjoyment. Whether you're in the mood for holiday classics, uplifting rom-coms (we're suckers for anything British comedy here), or thrilling action films, a movie marathon is a fantastic way to relax and unwind. It's a good year when there's time to watch Gilmore Girls, or indulge in the Harry Potter & Lord of the Rings films!  And then, there are the classics like Miracle on 34th Street, Anne of Green Gables and Little Women, all versions. 

Embrace the start of winter with these calming and enjoyable activities that will help you savor the season. Remember to take time for yourself, cherish the small moments, and find happiness in winter's simple pleasures.

None of our recommendations are sponsored.  They are just little things we want to share with our readers.  Please enjoy and we wish you a peaceful and blessed New Year!