Neutral Hot Cocoa Station

*A hot cocoa station is a wonderful way to welcome winter to your home*

When I first introduced the hot cocoa station to our home, my kids were still fairly young and their eyes lit up at the sight of an entire tabletop full of everything they could need or want to make their hot cocoa dreams come true.

Back then, the hot cocoa station was bright, colorful and extra Christmas-y. And my daughter would often contribute to the display by adding a banner and other little examples of her artistry.

But, I’m finding that this corner of my home is looking a little bit differently these days. A little softer, more subtle and simple. It seems to be reflecting my season of life, of motherhood.

While I love our traditions and there are so many things that won’t change, I can’t help but recognize that there are also so many things that do change, whether I want them to or not.

I don’t have to be on the lookout for little hands sneaking some sprinkles or chocolate chips. Nobody quickly shoves a marshmallow into their mouth hoping mommy didn’t see them. Don’t get me wrong, the jars of goodies still get depleted. But, there’s much less sneaking around involved at this stage.

In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a bit more tender. When Christmas rolls around and I no longer have wish lists that include Lego sets or dollhouses, I find that I want my home to reflect this craving for all things gentle.

So our hot cocoa station this year is much more simple and done in a neutral color palette that just subtly blends in with the rest of the decor. It still feels festive and is definitely still “user friendly” (haha), but it’s just a bit less…well…less.

And, that’s ok. It’s not that this area won’t ever again have bright colors (maybe even pops of red!) but, right now I’m happy to have things this way.

With all that is going on in the world right outside our door, my desire is for our home to truly feel like a respite. I want it to be where we come and let our guard down, our heart rates slow and to be flooded with a sense of peace in knowing that here is where we can just simply be. I want it to be a place of rest. Rest from the constant onslaught of news and information. Rest from the seemingly small struggles of school and jobs that can so often feel like big struggles.

And, most importantly, we rest in the comfort of knowing the One who is Sovereign over all and is the reason this month is so very special and sacred.

Many blessings to you dear friends as we kick off this season,

P.S. If you liked the little jars with spoons attached, here is a link to them!