Winter Musings And Then Some..

My Dears,

Ohhhh it's nice and cold out....just the way I like it. Funny how winter inspires comfort....at least to me it does. I think of frost and see a nice fire blazing away in the hearth. I see snow and think of how lovely it is to sit in my library, book in hand, and watch the flakes fall gloriously upon the ground. Some days when it's at its coldest, I venture out, if only for a few minutes, to feel the cold upon my cheeks...the brush of icy fingertips cooling the warmth of my skin and leaving it rosy. I find it so invigorating to breathe in winter's crisp air before heading back in to the fireside.

Then there's the comfort wear..chenille socks to keep my toes soft and toasty, my flannel pjs, which sometimes I wear long after I'm out of bed on a snowy day, the homemade afghan.. lovingly crocheted and perfect to ward off the sudden chill. There's velvet, corduroy, wool, chenille, and cashmere..all the fabrics made to love and caress the skin at wintertime. I love gloves..long gloves, short gloves, driving gloves, and evening gloves...I wear my gloves all winter long. Oh..and let's not forget the muff...every Edwardian lady must have one you know! Then there are hats. Oh dear heavens!! I do so love hats..and during winter I'm at my glory. My head is always well covered and warmed by a favorite chapeau.

A cup of hot chocolate or tea is the first thing offered at Harmonie House when the air is nippy. Mulled cider is always a favorite. Tell me my dears..have you ever tried warm cinnamon milk in the evening? Ohhh..that's a favorite since my childhood. Tis simple to make. Take a microwavable mug..fill it with milk, add a cinnamon stick or two, then sprinkle some cinnamon powder. Pop it in the microwave and heat it up. Sweeten as you please and enjoy!! You may also do this the old fashioned way upon the stove. Warning..it's a lovely beverage to lull you to sleep. I usually imbibe this treat while propped upon my pillows, reading a book. Doesn't take long before I doze off. Herbal lore says that cinnamon is used to enhance psychic ability...perhaps some prophetic dreams?? Only if they're good..or I don't want to know!! *smiles*

I need not get into comfort food...it would take up the whole blog. We all have our favorites during the cold months....especially those loaded with carbs. I find quite often that mashed potatoes imbue me with warmth and smiles. I especially love it when made in shepherd's pie. However, hand me a bowl of nothing else but buttery mashed on its own..and you will hear me sigh in contentment. Mmmm.. What is your favorite comfort food?

There is no need to fear Father Winter's embrace when it is lovingly and gently offered. We have the simple comforts to keep us warm and cozy during the season of frost. Let's seek ways to enjoy it rather than scoff when the temperature drops. After all...we have the power to make of it what we wish. Let's become those happy people within the beautiful snow globes. Go out and be tenderly kissed by those magical crystals...snowflakes.


On this, the eve of my 39th year, I have reflected on all the blessings the past year has granted. So much has happened, so many changes, new discoveries, and beginnings. I have changed..I can admit it. On the eve of my 30th birthday, I imagined many things about my future. I had many plans and dreams. I could not foresee what fate had in store for me. I never thought those changes would come so soon. Needless to say, I am not where I thought I would be on the eve of my 30th birthday. No..I am in a place where I never imagined..a place I have created for myself, on my own. If this year has taught me anything, it has taught me the true meaning of the words "I Can"...and for my 39th my words of choice are "I Will".

Thank you each and every one of you for...well...for you of course! If I didn't have you, who would read my musings? You've embraced me, followed my every mood, and have kept me company when I've felt alone. You are one of the blessings of my 38th year.

xoxo
Miss Sandra