What is cozy anyway? A feeling, a state of mind or an environment that you are in, it can be each and everything. Cozy is a feeling of comfort, warmth and relaxation. The natural world is preparing for the cold winter and some are going into hibernation, although we don’t go into hibernation and I kind of wish we did we can still prepare to deal with the colder weather by making ourselves and our homes fell more cozy.

Here are a few things to create that cozy feeling this fall / winter:

1.Decorate your home with fall colors and natural items. Switching out the bright whites and vibrant colors of summer to visually warm colors of the fall and the winter. Some colors to think about, deep browns, oranges, mustards, off whites, camels, caramel, gold, brass, birch wood, mahogany and cherry. You can use these colors by laying with pillows, fluffy throws, blankets, vases and dried flowers.

2. Clean, decorate and prepare your fireplace and mantel. Clean off your mantel, if you need to and It would be a good idea to get your chimney cleaned. Pick up some of your favorite firewood, I love how birchwood smells. You can add updated photos and pictures, some great candles and hang some garlands to represent the seasons.

3. Change the window treatments. I usually have sheer curtains up from spring and summer, because the windows are open and I want that wonderful breeze to blow in, but in the winter I don’t want any chill coming in and no heat leaving so changing the curtains to a heaver fabric helps to layer on the warmth and add drama to any home. *Get the under door draft stoppers, to stop the draft from coming in.

4. Create a beverage station. If you are into coffee then have all the wonderful things to make the best cup of coffee. I am a tea and hot chocolate drinker, so having your favorite mugs on display, the best honey, and the best mini marshmallows to go with your hot chocolate is always best.

5. Home clothes. If you are not familiar with the saying “home clothes” its basically the clothes that you only wear at home, not to run errands around town or to drop the kids off. It is only for home, bed to sofa and back again. The clothes are usually soft to the touch, make you feel good, and they keep you warm while in the house. Sweaters, hoodies, pants, socks, robes and fluff slippers.

6. Clean out the clutter. This should have been first, but as the new year is approaching make way for the new by clearing out the clutter. Let the energy flow, smudge your home with some sage, get it blessed. Make it welcoming to the new year.