I’m not sure what it is about this coming winter, but I’m SO excited. I think being so restricted by the on-and-off lockdowns has me looking forward to just embracing the indoors and getting really cozy. There’s nothing like spending time with my little family, and while we might not be able to do all of our usual winter activities, there are still so many ways to take advantage of this magical season!! My Winter Bucket List is packed with lots of pandemic-proof items to check off. This winter especially will be full of firsts for Pierce because he’s turning 2 (OMG where has the time gone) this December!!!

1. Give Back

One of my biggest goals for 2021 is to focus more of my spare time on charity work and giving back. And why not get a head start over the holidays? I think the state of the world has made us all realize just how fortunate we are. Despite everything that’s happened, we all have so much to be grateful for, and it’s our duty to help others wherever we can. Whether that means donating to a family in need, making Christmas care packages, donating to your local food bank, or helping the ladies of Dress for Success Vancouver, there’s always the opportunity to spread a little magic around the holidays. 

 

2. Watch Christmas Movies

Christmas movies are always on my winter bucket list. They help me to slooowww down and really let myself get into the holidays. It’s all about putting my feet up and getting cozy under a blanket with my boys and a nice cup of hot cocoa. Oh, and don’t forget the fireplace. Some of our favourites are The Santa Clause, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch, Miracle on 34th Street, and White Christmas. And one just for me…The Holiday. Also, I’m sure I’m not alone here, but I’m completely obsessed with all the Christmas Hallmark movies!! I used to have my doubts, but they’re such a great way just to turn off your brain knowing you’re in for a feel-good happy ending. We could all use a little feel-good escapism right now lol!!!

 

3. Winter Baking

Bring on the winter treats. I have a bit of a sweet tooth and Christmas Baking doesn’t JUST bring a steady flow of treats into the house, but it’s also so much fun. Toss on some Michael Buble, my holiday apron, and I’m already having a great time. I love having Pierce as my little helper…even though he’s not so helpful yet….but he sure looks cute with a little flour on his nose!!!! One of the first treats we’re going to bake are these delicious looking gingerbread cookies by Fraiche Living. I also love ordering these jars by Jodi around the holidays. They make such great little gifts, and since I might not be bringing them as hostess gifts, I might have to make my rounds doing little elf drop-offs!

 

4. Date Nights In 

If I’m being honest, mine and Gary’s relationship has taken a lot of work (don’t they all?). The love has ALWAYS been there since day 1, but we were on a speedy path to domestic life, and when you throw in a baby that creates its own set of challenges! That being said, I’m so proud of where we are right now and how far we’ve come in such a short amount of time. We’ve both learned just how important prioritizing each other and our quality time is. I’m so looking forward to having some cozy date nights-in over the holidays where we just completely unplug and are present for each other. I’m thinking we’ll make some mulled wine and cook a delicious, comforting meal together. Nurturing our relationship with attention and time is truly the key to staying sane and in love!!!

 

5. Embrace the Snow

We don’t really have a choice this year—jetting off to escape the snow isn’t an option! So might as well embrace it!!! I personally love the snow, so that won’t be much of a stretch for me, and so does Pierce! I was really looking forward to taking Pierce up to the mountains this season for some tobogganing and maybe even his first little run on a snowboard, but that might have to wait until next year. Until then, I can’t wait to have a snowball fight in the yard with my two guys. It brings me right back to memories of my childhood where my sister and I would make snow angels and build huge snowmen. Our mom would always make us hot chocolate with little marshmallows, and now Gary makes it for Pierce and I. It’s so special to recreate these memories for Pierce that I have growing up. 

 

6. Daily Walks

Getting out for a walk every day during the holidays feels like a way more manageable goal (especially with Pierce) than trying to set myself up with strict workout goals. Although this holiday season might look a little different, I’m sure there will still be tons on my plate, and I’m really trying to shift my mindset around exercise. I’ve put so much pressure on myself to stick to a workout schedule and have the perfect body in the past. Now, I’m trying to look at it a little differently with a focus on my mental health. I’m honestly just so thankful for my health, and getting outside for a walk to breathe in the fresh air and clear my head is a great place to start.

While my Winter Bucket List is usually a lot longer, I wanted to focus on all the great things we can still do (even if we’re on lockdown) to get into the holiday spirit!! Taking the time to really appreciate everything we still have is a great place to start making your own list! This Christmas might look a little different than most, but I think it will force us all to slow down and really appreciate the people we have right there in front of us. What’s on YOUR bucket list!? Share your ideas in the comments below!

xx

Natalie