The season to reach for warmth
In a corner of the living room.
The top of our sofa has, at some point, become the blanket's permanent spot.
Before I know it, I'm reaching for its warmth, both morning and night.
Just a few weeks ago, I only used it to cover my lap while working at my desk, but now it's helping me stay warm from morning till night.
My day begins by wrapping myself in the blanket and making hot water in the morning.
It's still cold in the room.
The sound of boiling water and the soft warmth of the blanket gently awaken my sleeping body.
During the day, it's my work companion.
I spend a lot of time facing manuscripts and photos during desk work, so a blanket on my lap is essential. When my feet get cold, my posture tends to slump, but with a blanket, my body naturally relaxes, and my back straightens. My mind even warms up, and my thoughts seem to align.
At night, it's my custom to read, wrapped snugly up to my shoulders.
I absolutely love the sense of security it provides, gently bringing my day to a close.
Today, I'm sharing my winter preparations with you.
Long-lasting cotton wool
How many years have I been using it?
As the seasons change, it has become an integral part of my life. That's the kontex "Cotton Wool Blanket."
I've washed it countless times, but it hardly ever pills, and its shape remains beautiful. The fringe, which was neatly aligned at first, becomes fluffier with each wash as it incorporates air, and I find this change endearing.
The fabric has become softer than when I first started using it, and now it comfortably conforms to my skin every time I touch it. It feels like it's gradually growing into my own unique blanket, deepening my affection for it.
I use the light gray one.
It's a color that blends well with both soft sunlight and the glow of a night lamp.
Its elegant color sometimes leads me to wear it out as a shawl. It's especially indispensable when I go to the park or for a walk. Thanks to it, I can slowly enjoy these moments without being bothered by the occasional chilly breeze or the coolness in the shade.
Lately, I've also been drawn to the transparent, pale ice gray.
When I compare them side by side, even though they're both gray, the impression is completely different, to the point where I'm already imagining what outfits I'd pair them with.
What I value when choosing things is "comfort" and "longevity."
This cotton wool blanket fulfills both of those criteria.
Light and warm triple gauze
I've been using my cotton wool blanket for a long time, but this year I found something interesting from kontex and decided to get it.
It's the "Washable Wool Triple Gauze Blanket."
The words "triple gauze" instantly make me imagine a soft texture.
When I actually hold it, the slightly bumpy, gauze-like texture is so fresh and lovely.
And I was surprised by how light it was.
It's fluffier than it looks, and when I drape it over my shoulders, it's so light I almost forget I'm wearing it. Yet, there's a gentle warmth that comfortably reaches deep inside my body.
Since it's 100% merino wool, it doesn't feel scratchy, which is also a plus.
The softness of the high-quality material combined with the lightness of the triple gauze seems to gently embrace even the winter air.
It has buttons, so you can wear it like a poncho. It doesn't slip off your shoulders, and you can move around comfortably when you get up to make tea.
Of course, it's washable.
The cotton wool blanket I currently use is also washable, so the "peace of mind that comes with being able to wash it at home" is really important.
I'm thinking of giving it to a pregnant friend next.
Cold is the enemy during pregnancy, and I'm sure it will gently stay with her even after the baby is born. Because it's soft and light, it will feel comfortable against the skin and can be safely used near the baby. Just imagining that makes me feel a little warmer.
Embracing winter with warmth
I'm not a big fan of the cold, but as my collection of favorite warming items has grown, I've started to look forward to the arrival of winter.
Year by year, I find myself spending more time thinking about "how to live comfortably," and I feel like I've naturally started to take better care of my body.
As the seasons change, I discover small pockets of warmth in my daily life.
Such moments seem to gently warm my heart as well.
It's suddenly gotten much colder, but I hope you all stay warm with your favorite comforting items.
