Create a Cosy Home
Once the shuddering dread of waking up in darkness has subsided, there are a few small upsides to the clocks changing and the days getting ever shorter. There is the occasional mesmerising sunset on the school run, or the glimpse of a new moon on the way back from work. There is the reassuring feel of an extra layer of clothing, and the instant release from summer-long wardrobe anxiety. And like pulling on that friendly old coat that you have not worn for a while, there is the undisputedly cosy feeling of knowing that, for the next few months, your home is going to be your sanctuary.
Stave off turning up the thermostat and instead start layering your sofas with warm throws and quilts, such a simple way to add texture and interest to your home. Don’t worry if nothing matches- the more colourful and cosy the better. Just pile on the cushions, load a tray with tea and cakes, and finally get the whole way through the Sunday papers.
Bathing in the late afternoon is another of winter’s finest pleasures, best done with the door locked and while the children do their homework. Leave the curtains open for a view of the waning moon, surround the bath with candles and tune in to the Shipping Forecast while you sip tea from your favourite mug/ wine from your favourite glass (delete as appropriate)…
While the shorter days push us to get outside and make the most of the daylight while it lasts- drinking in the low winter sun and marvelling at the late autumn colours (while artfully ignoring the mud)- it is the return indoors that we all start to crave at this time of year. Is there any better way to spend a weekend than with a long winter walk followed by a long, late, candle-lit lunch? Lay the fire and set the table before you go, leaving just the strike of a match between you and an evening well spent. This is the time of year for slow cooking, slow eating, and indulging in long, winding and sometimes meaningful conversation. It is a time to read, to think, to listen, and to get those long-promised projects underway.
