It’s December - Notes, Hopes, and Embracing Coziness
Books for gifts, nights in, and a Christmas cocktail.
As the year winds down and the chill of winter settles in, December brings with it an air of warmth, reflection, and togetherness. We already had our first snow here and with it brings a whole new feeling that I absolutely love.
Now this month, whether you're celebrating the holidays, taking a moment to unwind, or simply enjoying the crisp winter days, this month is all about cultivating coziness and finding the magical in every way, every day. Or at least as much as we can since it also can be a stressful month for us all trying to crack down on our final to-do lists and gift getting.
Here’s a round-up of hopes, recommendations, things to do, and recipes to make December a month of comfort and joy. Hope you enjoy them!
Hoping
I finish up my holiday novella! I have been starting to dive into this novella (starting to turn a little more novel— oh no.) this past month. I’m really excited to find my groove in writing again especially while balancing a new lifestyle with my partner and a day job. Hoping this book will be out next year so something to look forward to and have on the horizon for 2025 pub plans.
To meet up with friends and family - I miss them.
Post more for all of you as I continue to dig deep and maybe one day write full time? Currently when it comes to my newsletter my paid subscriber count is... 0. But we keep going.
I am able to wrap up presents and they actually turn out to be decent gifts. I am not the best gift giver unfortunately, unless I can get everyone a book.
Recommending
Taking time to Relax and Reflect: December is a perfect time to pause, reflect on the year past, and set intentions for the year ahead. Whether it’s through journaling, meditative walks, or quiet evenings at home, we hope you find moments of calm amidst the holiday bustle.
Connecting with Loved Ones: Whether it’s through cozy gatherings, heartfelt conversations, or simple check-ins, this month we hope you can spend meaningful time with those who matter most—whether near or far.
Self-Care: Amidst the festivities, it's easy to forget to nurture yourself. Take time to prioritize connecting with others, but also yourself!
Find time to take a slow mornings. Drink your coffee in a mug instead of a travel mug. Stay wrapped up in a blanket for a little while longer while it is still dark out. Maybe read a book or your favorite Substack publications when the world is still quiet.
Can’t handle a soft morning? Quiet evenings with a good book, or indulging in a warm bath with your favorite scents, or watching a movie after sticking a pizza in the oven also makes things feel perfect this time of year when you just want joy in your life.
Also consider...
Holiday-themed puzzle
A good book
Some soft music
Don’t forget your skin care. I add this because during the hustle, I know I don’t take enough time to take care of myself in this simple way especially as the air gets cold and dry outside. Take an everything shower, lotion up, and do that extra step in your skin care routine.
Jolabokaflod: The Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod, or "Christmas book flood", involves giving books as gifts on Christmas Eve and spending the evening reading.
Read a book before the holiday or when your cuddled up late at night. I absolutely love this tradition.
Need a few book recommendations to gift?
For the Magnolia Home DIY-er who is also Romance Book Lover: When in December by Kendra Mase
For the Literary Sensation Lover: Intermezzo by Sally Rooney or Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
For the Cozy, Second Chance Romance Reader: Call You Mine by Kendra Mase
For the Nostalgic Narnia Lover: The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer
Soft Lighting: Lighting plays a huge role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Try using candles (think soft vanilla, cinnamon, or pine scents to go with the season) or string lights to add warmth to your home. Opt for soft, amber-toned lights to mimic the sunset glow. I absolutely love my little candle warming lamp for this in the evening!
Blankets & Throws: Wrap yourself in a soft throw, pile the pillows high, and create your cozy corner for the season. Layered textures, like wool, cotton, and faux fur, can transform your space into a haven of relaxation.
Create a December Playlist: Curate a playlist with cozy winter classics or gentle instrumental music to set the tone for the month. Or mix them up to keep your holiday music spicy.
Holiday Movie Marathon: Whether you’re watching Christmas classics, cozy winter tales, or festive rom-coms, a holiday movie marathon is a great way to unwind.
Think of classics like...
Home Alone
The Polar Express
The Holiday – or discover new favorites! And share some more down in the commends
Make Homemade Decorations: Gather friends or family to create your own holiday decorations. From homemade wreaths to DIY ornaments, crafting is a fun way to get into the seasonal spirit.
I’ve been seeing so many people using natural materials like dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, pinecones, and greenery for a rustic, cozy touch.
Write Letters of Gratitude: We all think about holiday cards this time of year, but what about writing a kind-hearted letter?
Take a moment to write down things you’re grateful for this year and consider sending notes of appreciation to people who made a difference in your life whether it includes friends or family. It’s a meaningful and mindful way to close out the year.
Outdoor Winter Walks: Yes, even when it is cold out. Bundle up and take a walk in a nearby park or through your neighborhood. The crisp air, the quiet of a winter day, and perhaps even a light dusting of snow can make for a rejuvenating experience. It has also been said that this can help combat seasonal depression if you are feeling it this season.
Bake for the Holidays (or just for your sweet tooth): Baking is one of the best ways to bring warmth to your home. Whether you’re making cookies for friends or a rich fruitcake for the family, let the kitchen be your sanctuary this month.
Recipes
Rosemary Pomegranate Margarita
This rosemary pomegranate margarita from Butternut Bakery looks like it’s the perfect Christmas cocktail if you are hosting and now that you and your friends love a good margarita! It’s perfectly balanced with pure pomegranate juice and an easy rosemary simple syrup.
I’ll definitely want to try my hand at this recipe hopefully soon!
Ingredients:
Rosemary Simple Syrup
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup fresh rosemary
Salt Rim
Lime wedges
Flaky sea salt
Rosemary Pomegranate Margarita
(makes 1 cocktail)
1.5 oz blanco tequila
1 oz orange liqueur
1 lime, juiced
2 oz 100% pomegranate juice
1/2 oz rosemary simple syrup
Pomegranate seeds and rosemary sprigs for garnish
Rosemary Simple Syrup
Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Bring to a simmer and allow the sugar to fully dissolve. Drop in the rosemary and continue to simmer for 30 seconds.
Remove from heat and let the syrup steep for 30 minutes to 1 hour. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor.
When it’s done steeping, strain into a glass container and chill until you’re ready to make the cocktails. The syrup is the most flavorful the day of, but it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Salt Rim
Cover a small plate with flaky salt and run a lime wedge around the rim of a cocktail glass.
Rub the rim into the salt and then fill the glass with ice.
Rosemary Pomegranate Margarita
In the cocktail glass, stir together the tequila, orange liqueur, lime, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary.
Not feeling a holiday cocktail, how about some oats everyone can love?
Cinnamon & Apple Baked Oats
A warming breakfast that fills your home with the smell of fresh-baked goodness. This recipe makes about two bowls in my experience, though it could also be one if you are extra hungry!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk —I always go just a little less on the liquid since we like our oats thick in this house)
- 1 large apple, diced
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional) or any other toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine oats, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup. Or sometimes I end up just mixing it in the baking dish for a “one-pot” sort of breakfast recipe and it works out just fine!
3. Stir in the diced apple and pour into a baking dish.
4. Sprinkle any other toppings like nuts on top if using and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the oats are set and golden.
December is the month to embrace coziness in all its forms. From the warmth of family and friends to the simple pleasures of comfort food, soft blankets, and wintertime rituals, let this be a great final month of 2024.
Be sure you follow me on Instagram as well, because I have a few bookish giveaways coming up soon if you are interested.
Wishing you a Cozy, Magical December!
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