January often gets a bad reputation – the festive season is behind us, the days are short and resolutions can start to feel like a chore.
The kettle has barely had a chance to cool this month, with endless cups of tea keeping us warm while we navigate the colder, darker days. But as we sat in the office this week, mugs in hand, conversation turned to the little things we’ve been doing to brighten our days. January may not have the charm of summer or the sparkle of December, but we’ve decided it’s full of potential – if you know where to look.
From uplifting reads to some (very) indulgent recipes, that much-needed refresh of our homes, and even some winter sun, here’s how we’re finding the silver linings this month.
A Good Read
Whether you’re embracing the ‘new year, new hobby’ mindset, or just on the hunt for your next great read, we’ve got you covered. On our reading list this month?
‘The Summer Book’ by Tove Jansson is a sun-soaked tale of life on a remote Scandinavian island that has us dreaming of lighter, longer days. For something gripping, we’ve been loving ‘Blue Sisters’ by Coco Mellors. A story of sisterhood, love and friendship set against vibrant New York. And we’ve only heard great things about ‘Demon Copperhead’ by Barbara Kingsolver, a story of resilience and survival in modern-day Appalacia.
Home Refreshes
We’re always eager to make use of the all the space that suddenly opens up after the sparkle of Christmas comes down. It’s the perfect opportunity to rethink your interiors and make room for pieces that bring you joy. A few of our favourites this month include our Vintage Elm Desk, and our selection of Vintage Dark Pots – what better way to welcome in the New Year than with a touch of Vintage!
That January refresh doesn’t have to mean drastic changes either. Sometimes all it needs is a reshuffle of your furniture layout, or a slight change of your colour palette with some new cushions, a lick of paint or even a change to your sofa with our additional sofa covers.
Indulge in Comfort Food
Warming, wholesome and most importantly, indulgent. In a bid to find the perfect January comfort food, the team have been sharing tried and tested recipes, from Chicken Cacciatore, to Griddled Olive Flatbreads with Garlic Butter, and Giant Chocolate Chunk Cookies. These delicious dishes by Alexandra Dudley have become firm favourites.
An Escape from Reality
If all else fails, retreating to somewhere sunny and warm is always a fail-safe way to pretend that January isn’t happening. From it’s charming coastal towns, to the winter sun and relaxed pace of life, a few days in the Algarve is the perfect antidote to the January blues. Whether you’re exploring vibrant seaside towns, or claiming your spot on one of the many stunning beaches, it’s the ideal way to press pause and recharge before the year fully kicks off.
Team recommendations: Tavira, known for its charming town squares and picturesque riverside setting, and the city of Lagos, you won’t want to miss its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere.
With a little intention, January can be far from the bleak month it’s made out to be. Here’s to finding your silver linings, wherever you are this month.
