Oh January, you are so silent and still. All of the Christmas lights have come down and the scent of citrus is in the air. It is officially the middle of winter! The wind howls, as it kisses the check, begging to be recognized. Mother nature is bare, and it’s time for dormancy to reign.

The home needs tidying after all the neglect from the holidays and it’s time to reflect on the year that has passed. Wrapping up, tucking in and enjoying the coziness of winter is much needed after a busy holiday season.

Isn’t it funny how Christmas can feel like its own season? The sweaters and socks, blankets and mugs come out for the month. Cookies are made to give to neighbors and friends, and the coco is especially good when watching the parade. And then, in the blink of an eye, Christmas Day has come and gone, and New Years is upon us.

All the Christmas sweaters get put away, tucked into drawers and patiently wait for the next Christmas season. With all the lights getting taken down, winter can feel so bleak, so bland. But isn’t it supposed to be this way? Plain, bare, stripped down, a blank canvas.

I have come to enjoy the stillness of January; I used to think it was maddening at how silent everything was, but when you really listen you can hear so much. The hearty birds as they search for something to eat, the crunch of leaves as you take winters walk and the kettle as it boils water for tea.

Winter is about the little things, noticing the detail of something that should be so simple and turning it into something extraordinary. Adding a pinch of Cyane pepper to your hot chocolate to make it a little spicy or if your more of a coffee drinker, try a pinch of cinnamon. You get extra points for adding extra whipped cream on top.

While I would love to spend every morning in the presence of the Lord, sometimes life gets in the way, and I spend the evening in my bible instead. I read and underline and take notes. I get all cozy with a blanket and fuzzy socks and just enjoy the evening with God.

During the month of December, I read the chapter of Luke in the Bible. I read about the birth of Jesus, His life and His death. By Christmas morning I knew why Jesus gave His life for us. As I sit in the quiet moments of winter evenings, I turn on the lamp. Its soft glow reminds me that the long winter nights won’t last long, and the warmth of the sun will come soon.

Something as simple as the light from a lamp reminds me of God’s presence. And while I patiently wait for springs arrival, I will enjoy this winter season. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens”, Ecclesiastes 3:1.

This verse makes me think of how as humans, we are constantly on the go at all times. And while that can be great in summertime, we are in the middle of winter. A time to slow down, recharge, and embrace hibernation.

It’s a time for soups, hot tea and cuddling in a cozy blanket. It’s the end of January and spring will be here before we know it. I pray that everyone enjoys the rest of winter and for safe travels, especially on foggy days. Until next time!