‘Tis the Season

**I wrote this post on November 11, 2023 so just pretend it’s not almost February and we haven’t already celebrated Christmas. Furthermore, the snow I describe did NOT last long and we had a pretty dismal Christmas in regards to the white stuff**

I am the only one awake right now. Molly was up crying around 5:00 (“I NEED NEED HAND DADDY”) so Ian went into her room to comfort her while I tried convincing Rosie it wasn’t time for breakfast just yet. Rosie won and we were out the door by 6:10 for her morning walk. It’s pitch black at this time of year, so I wear a high vis vest, but on a Saturday, there aren’t many people driving around at this hour. The roads and side walks are super slippery lately, so I walked with caution and the newly fallen snow, littered with deer prints was a smorgasbord for Rosie’s nose. It’s amazing what sniffing around will do – she’s passed OUT on the couch now. I really meant it when I said I was the only one awake.

I started the coffee when I got home, and notice Ian made it back to bed – he managed to get out of Molly’s room without her tagging along so that’s a bonus. I put some leftovers on the stove for my breakfast. I’ve been trying to live a little more by the Glucose Goddess’ rules and eating more savoury breakfasts, usually just leftovers. I picked out two cookbooks to peruse while I eat and have a seat in the chair I hate so much. We bought new ones a month ago, but they will probably not arrive for another month. The anticipation is killing me. We eat at the dining table I grew up sitting at in my Grandma’s apartment, but only one original chair is left. When we moved into our house, we bought new chairs and have hated them almost since day one so it’s about damn time! (Note from Laura: we got our chairs on Boxing Day – yahoo!)

I take a sip of coffee and look outside. I can’t see the sun but it’s bright out now and the snow on the trees is perfectly magical. This is what inspired me to write .. for the first time in who KNOWS how long. I mean, I do have several drafts written but they’re still hiding. The snowy weather makes me feel like I am 6 again, living in a small northern Ontario town. I’ve just come in from playing outside. I can hear the stereo playing Celine Dion and the crackle of the wood in the fireplace. I can smell fresh cookies baking. We rented a VHS for later tonight, probably Disney. I’m not sure why my biggest memory from my childhood is basically snow falling outside and our living room with the pink couch and the fireplace, but here we are. It’s cozy. It’s home.

As we roll into what many people consider to be a downright depressing season, what are some of your favourite memories during winter growing up? I think for me it also meant a house full of people. Parties, food, laughter. Family. I would love to hear from you in the comments below (PLUS – What is your go to dessert to bake at Christmas!?)