Simple Pleasures: Savoring the Season of Fire and Light
I am the first to admit I’m not a winter person. But where I live, in New England, snowy winters are a fact of life. And if living with winter has taught me anything, it’s to savor the warm and cozy aspects of this season. Candles, fairy lights and a roaring fire can do wonders to boost light on short, dark days and (even more important) bolster the spirits. So pour yourself a mug of hot cocoa and get cozy around the fire. Here are 10 ideas for boosting light and creating a magical ambience around the house.
Keep your windows clean (and as bare as possible). You may be surprised at how much more light comes in through crystal-clear windows. Even if it’s too cold out to get to the exterior side of the windows, cleaning even inside can boost light. And while there’s something to be said for the insulating effects of heavy window treatments, they do nothing when it comes to letting in maximum light on dim winter days — so open the blinds and pull open those drapes!
Line your hall with lanterns. If you have a long hall, why not line it with a row of sturdy hurricanes filled with pillar candles? I imagine this would make just walking from one room to the next a far more romantic experience.
Have your fireplace ready and waiting. If you have a working fireplace or woodstove, stock up andget ready with everything you need to light a fire at a moment’s notice. Chop and stack wood, prepare kindling and get your tools in order. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to have your chimney professionally cleaned. Knowing everything is ready to go may nudge you into having a cozy fire more often.
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Simple Pleasures: Savoring the Season of Fire and Light
