This winter has seemed longer than I can remember. With heavy rains across multiple weeks, in some ways, it’s reminded me of living in the Pacific Northwest, but with more severe storms than usual.

We’ve bundled up indoors, cozying up on the couch with Yoshi. At times, I’d engross myself in kindle books while my husband enjoyed his mobile games and we played soft music in the background. Yoshi’s turning into more of a cuddling kind of dog and continues to find the softest blankets, pillows, and spaces. The cardigans are out and wool blankets have become like practical decoration around the home.

To vary our days, in lieu of outdoor activities, we’ve driven out to stroll around some shops, made pottery in our home studio, and cooked a variety of hearty stews. To brighten up the days, we’ve been harvesting a variety of citrus from the garden and making fresh juice, lighting candles, and binge watching shows. We have our tea time fairly regularly, which we guiltily always try to pair with a pastry or two.

We’re growing a little stir crazy lately as the weather continues on. I’m looking forward to spring, but trying to keep the inspiration going by looking up new recipes to try and making future travel plans for us this year. There’s just a few more days until Spring now. With the rains, I’m looking forward to a little super bloom this year. Fingers crossed!