Finally Winter

Well, it's about time!

 Winter finally decided to show up to Buffalo.

I was beginning to worry it might not snow at all this winter, but I was proved wrong this past Thursday-Friday. We got around 3-5 inches of snow in about 12 hours. It was a great scene to wake up to -  I don't think looking out the window to a fresh blanket of snow will ever get old for me.

When the fresh snow sticks to the dark, wet branches, it creates a beautiful contrast. 

It's wonderful to take a walk in the woods when it's snowing because when the air is cold, sound actually travels faster through the air than when it's warm outside. So, when you're walking in the woods during the winter, you can actually hear the snow hitting the ground. It's humbling, almost, to hear such a delicate event.

So, what's better to accompany a snow storm than a warm, hearty breakfast? Here's an easy recipe that will keep you warm, full, and stocked with energy for a day of play in the snow.

Creamy Pumpkin Oatmeal

 (For 1 serving)

You'll need:

1/3 C steel cut oats

1 C unsweetened almond milk

1/2 C pumpkin

2-3 T brown sugar 

1 T chia seeds

1 T cinnamon

1/2 t vanilla extract 

Walnuts (optional) 

To make:

1. In a saucepan, heat oats and milk over medium heat until mixture comes to a low boil.

2. Stir in the chia seeds and the pumpkin.

3. Heat over med-low heat for about 5-6 minutes, stirring almost constantly.

4. Add in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla and cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring almost constantly.

5. When the oatmeal looks thick, it's should be ready. Pour into bowl or mug and sprinkle walnuts and maybe some extra brown sugar on top if you're feeling adventurous.

The result is a thick, creamy, comforting winter breakfast that (like I mentioned) provides plenty of energy for outdoor winter activities.

What do you like to do when it snows? Do you even like when it snows? :)