Winter has finally, officially struck Southern Vermont. In yesterday’s snowstorm, we got about 9 inches in town, and a bit over a foot just north into the mountains. There was hardly anyone out on the roads or at the shops, and it seemed like this “little dusting” by Vermont standards scared the heck out of everyone.

Of course, that meant for a very quiet, relaxing day even if you were out running errands, and a reminder to take it slow and enjoy life. Driving slowly and carefully over poorly plowed streets is a great reminder to just breathe and relax; you’ll get where you’re going eventually, so why rush?

That’s one of the great things about living in snowy climes in the winter; it forces you to step back every so often, to leave the computer and the rush and anxiety of modern life and get outside, whether to shovel or go sledding. And then, of course, to come back inside and warm up with a cup of tea!

After digging the compacted, concrete-like plowsnow away from the front of the driveway and clearing a path to the Tea Lab yesterday, I came back in and made a cup of Blackout chai to warm up – the combination of hot tea and hot spices seems to thaw me out faster than anything else.

What’s your favourite wintertime slowdown, and your favourite type of tea to go with it?