#1: Standard/Winter time
I might be in the minority here in the Northern Hemisphere, but since we moved to this new town and neighbourhood last year, I’ve begun to really, really enjoy Standard Time. Yes, it suddenly gets dark early, but it means our bodies go into “power down mode” earlier at night: So we try to have dinner earlier than in summer, we embrace candlelight and blankets, and just enjoy not being that active in the late afternoon.
#2: Tove Jansson’s Moomin books
Our daughter turned 3 a few months ago and has become more attentive and excited about reading longer books. One of our favourite reads, fitting with the season, is “Christmas Comes To Moominvalley”. It’s a sweet story perfect for kids, just like most Moomin books.
#3: My year in photos
November is when, every year, I put together a photo book for our whole family with the highlights of the year. I prep it quite a bit in advance, to avoid being stressed out right before Christmas, and so it gives me time to think and reflect a bit about how the year has gone — and to remember moments I’d forgotten: the long weekends, the hikes, and the social events that made the year special.
#4: Linen sheets
We only recently, and much too late (seasonally speaking) got linen sheets. It was something I’d wanted to try for a long time and I don’t regret the splurge: I love the feel of the sheets, even in winter, and the messy/crumpled/cosy look (aka I don’t need to iron the sheets or fold them super nicely).
#5: Fleece-lined leggings
I don’t think I need to explain this one: they’re warm, they’re cosy, and it was a recent purchase I’d been wanting to get for a long time. Perfect for a flight home when you’re tired and a little sick, or for the home office days.
#6: Heavyweight
I love podcasts. I listen to them while walking, on my commute, after kindergarten drop-off, and when out walking the dog.
One of my favourite podcasts of the year (especially when I'm not in the mood for a tech or design podcast) is “Heavyweight”. I really like the storytelling; the loveliness of the stories tugs at my heartstrings and always puts me in a meditative and grateful state of mind.