Winter, My Favorite Season

For all these reasons, and so many more, winter is my favorite season:

- fluffy snowflakes that flutter from the heavens like downy feathers

- warming bowls of nourishing soup

- pristinely white landscapes

- snuggly scarves

- the comfort of a hot cup of tea when the cold is settling in in the late afternoon

- a quieting of the calendar that occurs when snow envelopes the world

- tranquil gray skies

- tracks in the fresh snow from the forest critters

- the aroma of wood smoke wafting through the air

- warming stocking feet by the fire

- the sparkle of sunshine through glassy icicles

- comfort food on the menu

- exhilarating afternoons of sledding fun with the family

- the smell of winter -- the absence of all other smells

- Sunday evenings lost in the world of "Downton Abbey"

- every excuse to indulge in wool and velvet

- steaming cups of hot cocoa swirling with gently whipped cream

- luxurious hot soaks in the bathtub while watching the snow fall

- the sleep inducing weight of cozy blankets and a warm duvet 

What do you love best about winter?