We are close to the Winter Solstice now and to Christmas and the energy is one of slowing down, reflecting, staying warm and cozy. In our family we do Kris Kindle and buy one gift for one family member. My Mum bless her always buys us extra little surprises like slippers, socks and books. I love receiving books as a gift. I’m always reading several at any given time - a fiction, non fiction and something on Audible for the car journeys.

Reading is such a wintertime activity, and adapting to that energy is what seasonal living is all about! Rather than fight it, flow with it and get cozy!

Here’s some of my favourite Winter books, poems, reflections and podcasts:

Books:

• Wintering by Katherine May (amazing book!)

• The Christmas Chronicles by Nigel Slater (on my list)

• Christmas Days by Jeanette Winterson (loving it on audible - short stories)

• The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking (perfect for flicking through with a cuppa in hand)

• Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan (read it in one sitting, could not put it down)

• The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah (cued up on Audible to start it)

• The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey (on my list, great reviews)

Poems:

• Winter Time by Robert Louis Stevenson (a classic)

• Winter by James Simpson (my favourite winter poem by far)

• First Snow by Mary Oliver (my favourite poet)

• A Visit from St Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore (classic!)

Podcasts:

• The Calm Christmas Podcast with Beth Kempton

• As the Seasons Turns by Ffern (I adore this! Calm inducing every time)

• Candlelit Tales (tales of Irish myths to a live audience with live music)

Wishing you a very hygge, heiter, teolaí (cozy!) bookish Winter and holiday season ahead.

Le grá,

Maeve x