Hearth and Home

It is still dark in the mornings when the big kids get on the bus for school. I watch from the window as they make their way to the end of the lane, bundled up like Eskimos. Sometimes I hear the occasional shouts of glee as they enjoy a fresh snowfall in the dead quiet of the early morning. After the rush of getting the big kids out the door, things slow down significantly. I enjoy a warm cup of tea, hot chocolate, or cider while the little boys quietly play or snuggle in my bed and watch cartoons. 

In this Season of cold and dark I have been trying to help my family savor the special things that this time of year has to offer. I have been trying to live more slowly and intentionally, relishing in quiet days of snowfall and the glitter of the lights in the evening. Eating dinner or reading by candle light becomes a more frequent happening in the Winter months and it creates such a nice atmosphere in our home.

I've been recognizing the need to slow down and create. With a family this large it is so important for me to find time for myself amidst the chaos. Making things with my hands fills my soul and keeps me grounded.

As the world outside finds rest and sleep during these Winter months, so should we. Slowing down has given us a greater appreciation for the simple things in life and the time we have to share it. How grateful I am for a loving Savior who has made it possible for us to find rest and peace all throughout the year. Christmas is a great reminder of this!

"Winter is kind, she points us in her quiet, soft way towards our inner self, towards this annual time of peace and reflection.Winter takes away the distractions and presents us with the perfect time to rest and withdraw into a womb like love, bringing fire and light to our hearth."