There are different ways we transition from season to season. Quite literally–Spring to Summer, Summer to Fall, Fall to Winter–But also in the practical ways we move throughout our weeks and days.
Transitions Are Tricky
For our family, transitioning from fall to winter is a bit of a blur. Maybe that’s a byproduct of living in Southern California, where we can’t really boast spectacular Autumn colors. Often, fed up with 90 degree days, we make that pot of soup despite the heat, hoping it will, by some magical revelation, usher in cooler weather.
Or, perhaps it has little to do with the local climate and it’s the busyness of the holiday season that makes us feel unhinged and burnt out.
The random minimum school days when I guarantee I will have forgotten one of my children at least once—the stress of gift-buying season because some of us would seriously just prefer you tell us exactly what you want (brownie points if you send us a link)—parties…my gosh, so many parties—pumpkin patches, gingerbread houses, all the cookies, advent calendars, Christmas PJ’s, decorations galore—it often feels overwhelming.
Don’t get me wrong, part of me adores traditions and the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
But mostly, I prefer a slow burn into the wintering season—with time to reflect, prepare, and catch my breath.
It isn’t easy. And often I’ve sat, wondering just how November and December have glossed by and January is already upon me.
It’s taken time, energy and intentionality to slow down, maybe say ‘no’ to a few things, and yes to other things that help me feel grounded to the present and ready to usher in the colder months.
Things I Do While Wintering
My wintering preparation looks a lot like…
…homemade hot chocolate with extra whip cream AND marshmallows while reading Harry Potter to my youngest.
…laying out in the grass, soaking up little slivers of warmth and sunshine on these shorter days
…popcorn with extra butter and family movie nights when we all actually agree on what to watch together.
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…sticking my hands in some dirt and getting my garden beds ready for Spring planting.
…having a day or two or three when there’s no agenda, no chores—only time and a strong cup of coffee.
…decluttering the house, organizing the cupboards and cleaning out drawers.
…making a new jar of kimchi, baking some sourdough, and preparing another batch of kombucha.
Wintering probably looks a little different for everyone. And I imagine some of the things I’ve listed above sound terribly boring to some. But to me, they’re glorious and lovely and so meaningful to this introverted homebody.
I’d love to know…how do you prepare for wintering?
