The Coziness Continues

Markers in a mug

Sound of the kettle boiling

Collection of flat pebbles from the island

This pandemic is cementing the importance of coziness for me. Feeling cozy instead of cooped up is key to managing my anxiety. I’ve had a head start. I’ve grown up with coziness. After school, Ma would make us tea served in cups and saucers. Sugar bowl, small pitcher of milk and the cookie trommel accompanied them on the tray she’d carry in from the kitchen. Gezelligheid—coziness—is peppered all over the Dutch language, her mother tongue.

Sharp pencils

Orange slices and very dark chocolate

Watching the smoke after blowing out the candle

During the pandemic, living and working and schooling my kiddo in our small urban apartment means coziness, along with creativity, are what sees us through. I’ve also had a head start here. I know what it is like to be confined to home and to have work and a full life stripped away. Anxiety has locked me in on several occasions. Slowly, I have learned that having something simmering away on the stove, for me, truly helps.

Drawing flowers

Neatly folding laundry

Sprouting avocado pits and carrot tops

Ma’s sketches of Simone

Putting my feet on the chair across from me under the table

Painted nails and the way pastel aqua looks against the grey keyboard

What’s your cozy?

Wiping down your counters? 

Writing your grocery list in calligraphy?

Snoopy mug for your coffee?