Digging in on “Damp January”

To Dry or not to Dry? January, that is.

I’m so curious to know what folks are doing this year. Is Dry January more popular than ever, or are people taking a break from taking a break?

Here in the Itämeri house, we are threading the needle with “Damp January” – mostly dry, with a drink every now and then on the weekends. A post-holiday reset was needed, and quieting my brain with a glass of wine after a long day taking care of the baby while attempting to run the business during nap time was becoming a bit too habitual, ya know? That said, I’ve taken long breaks from drinking before – while pregnant with both of the kiddos (of course!) and at other points in my life when a recalibration was needed. But what I’ve found harder to maintain is a level of thoughtful moderation, where wine is part of the routine, but not the daily routine.

We’re a little more than a week in, and it’s been a nice change of pace. I find myself getting excited during the week to think of what I’ll cook on the weekend, and what I might pair with it. When I do have wine, I slow down and think about what I’m tasting and smelling, taking the time to enjoy all of the sensory aspects of the glass. And, it turns out, watching “Emily in Paris” for the first time after the kids go to bed is also a really great way to turn off your brain 🙂

Whether you’re on the dry, damp, or downright sodden train this January – we support you! We hope you’re enjoying the quiet winter season and look forward to seeing you (or sending you some bottles) whenever you’re ready to enjoy wine next.

To your health! Santé!
-Kelsey