There is nothing quite like the first real snow of the year. For us, it usually comes before winter is officially in season, but it’s always a special day. Waking up in the morning and looking out the window to see a soft blanket of snow covering the trees and ground feels almost magical. The air carries a very distinct smell, one you only get with the first snowfall. That scent takes me straight back to childhood, when I counted down the days until snow, because as a child, snow only meant more fun.

As the cold, snowy days stretch on, you may find yourself counting down the days until it’s gone, until warmth returns. Trust me, I know that feeling. But I’ve found that when we accept this season, look for its beauty, and allow ourselves to rest a little more, the days don’t drag on the same way. Winter becomes something to lean into rather than rush through.

Winter is the only time of year when it feels acceptable to not go anywhere for days. No battling icy roads or braving snowstorms. And honestly, I love that. As an introvert, being home feels incredibly freeing. This winter, with all the snowstorms, I’ve spent more time at home than usual, and it has given me the space to catch up around the house, organize, and reflect on what I want moving forward.

I’ve taken time to read my Bible more, listen to audiobooks, and journal. While the snowstorms blow outside, I don’t feel like I’m missing out. Instead, I feel deeply grateful for our warm little home.

While winter is a time to rest, it’s also important to keep our minds engaged. This is when we naturally turn to crafting, reading, writing, home projects, favorite movies, and board games. We also make it a priority to get outside. Even in winter, moving our bodies and immersing ourselves in nature is incredibly beneficial.

This season is also about nourishing our bodies with warm, comforting foods such as soups, stews, and fresh bread. Our bodies naturally crave more fats, carbohydrates, and sugars during winter, and that isn’t necessarily a bad thing when we nourish ourselves well. Meats, fish, butter, potatoes, carrots, citrus fruits, and even hot cocoa can be deeply sustaining during the colder months.

So go ahead and hunker down. Cozy in. Give yourself permission to slow down. Enjoy winter for what it is. Take a cue from nature, which rests and quiets itself during this season.

A Simple, Nourishing Hot Cocoa Recipe

This is our go-to winter hot cocoa. It’s simple, comforting, and something I feel good about serving my kids.

I use an organic cocoa powder and sweeten it with either maple syrup, honey, or organic unprocessed sugar. Maple syrup is rich in minerals, while honey supports the immune system and contains trace vitamins and minerals. That said, organic unprocessed sugar is still our kids’ favorite for taste.

I use unsalted bone broth and milk, or milk with added gelatin. Adding a pinch of mineral-rich salt, like Redmond Real Salt, enhances the flavor and adds even more nourishment, especially if you enjoy a salted chocolate cocoa. We always top ours with heavy whipping cream.

There’s truly nothing like spending a cold day outside and coming back in to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa you feel good about sharing with your children.