I love January. I think it's a month that often gets overlooked and even gets looked at in a negative way. People tend to dislike it because it's cold and sometimes a bit lonely feeling, but those are exactly the reasons why I love it so. Being an introvert, January is the perfect refresher after the hubbub of the holidays. I love the holiday season, but by the end of it I am so very ready to become a hermit for bit and the cold, quiet January that follows is simply perfect.

These past two weeks, I've been cleaning, organizing, and purging things around our house--it's partly due to the nesting stage I'm in and partly due to January being the perfect time of year for those types of projects. Cupboards have been cleaned, important papers have been filed away, and the sewing machine has been running. There has also been time for quiet relaxation and reflection too. I think I've read more in the past few weeks than I did over the few months that preceded them. What else is one to do when the temps are below zero and the days are short? We often live such fast-paced lives, I love how January forces us into a bit of quiet at home. What a great way to refuel the body and the soul.

So, take advantage of these next few weeks. Let the cold and the quiet dictate your schedule. When the roads are icy and the temps arctic, allow yourself to say no to the activities and commitments and just stay home. Take some time to let your body relax and refuel. There will be plenty of time to be busy later in the year.