how to romanticize winter

the clocks turned back last night, which means the days are getting shorter, darker, and, if you live somewhere like i do in the midwest, colder. it’s easy to feel down and unmotivated to go anywhere or do anything, which only makes you feel worse. but this year, i’ve decided i like winter. i love being cozy, staying home, and doing all my “grandma” things — and these cold months are the perfect excuse to do just that. it’s the best time of year to slow down and rest. i also think there’s something really romantic about this season — the stillness, the quiet, the way the world feels softer somehow.

so, this is everything i’m doing to romanticize and actually enjoy winter this year:

1. solo dates — as much as i love staying in, i want to push myself to get out more. solo movie nights at the theatre, wandering a museum, or having a glass of wine at a bar while reading a book.
2. all the cozy vibes — when i am staying in: candles lit, fireplace on (or a youtube fireplace if you don’t have one), comfy clothes, soft blankets, and jazz music playing in the background.
3. cooking — making lots of soup and all the warm, comforting meals.
4. hobbies, hobbies, hobbies — winter is the perfect time to try something new or revisit an old favorite. craft, sew, knit, do ceramics, start a puzzle.
5. at-home cafe — make my morning drinks at home with a little weekly menu, homemade winter-themed syrups, and baked goods.
6. make a winter bucket list — activities i want to do, books i want to read, movies i want to watch.
7. host — socialize without leaving the house. dinner parties, game nights, book clubs, movie marathons, etc.
8. workout classes — leaving the house, moving my body, being around people. i love a heated class or sauna session in the colder months.
9. home decor — swap out bedding, pillows, and decor to make my space feel cozier and more seasonal.
10. catch up on movies/shows — finally watch all the things i’ve been meaning to but haven’t had time for.
11. read a lot — same with all the unread books sitting on my shelf and in my kindle library.
12. appreciate the snow — i hate driving and walking in it, but i love watching it. curling up with a warm blanket and a book while it falls outside is one of life’s little joys.
13. all the holiday things — christmas markets, taking a walk or drive to look at all the lights, festive shows, etc.
14. go out with friends — winter doesn’t mean you have to stay in. try a new restaurant, go to a comedy show, concert, or the theatre.
15. go outside in general — even though it’s cold. play in the snow, go ice skating, take a walk through nature or a new neighborhood.
16. lean into winter fashion — coats, layers, textures, colors. accessorize with scarves, gloves, and hats that make me want to go outside. thrift for fun, warm pieces.
17. coffee dates — coffee shops have the best cozy vibes. meet a friend or go solo and read, write, or scroll pinterest.
18. vision board — for the end of the year or the start of a new one.
19. morning & evening routines — little rituals that make me excited to get out of bed in the morning and help me unwind at night.
20. find beauty in the quiet. winter is a time to reflect, reset, and rest. slow down enough to notice the small moments — the way the light hits in the morning, the sound of snow under your boots, the feeling of being warm inside while it’s cold outside.