The Chronicler’s Desk: Of Wood-Smoke, Winter Light, and the Analog Heart

February 1, 2026

There is a specific, quiet magic that arrives with the first of February. Here in our corner of New England, the snow sits deep and heavy on the boughs, a gift from the recent storms that have turned our landscape into a true white wilderness. But look closely at the afternoon shadows—they are stretching longer now. The sun lingers just a bit further above the treeline each day, a promise that while winter is in its prime, the light is reclaiming its territory.

As we settle into the heart of the season, I’ve found myself leaning further away from the digital hum and back toward the tactile, the steady, and the "old school."

The Alpine Sanctuary: A Haven for the Soul

This month, I’ve been focused on a labor of love within my own four walls. I believe that our mental well-being is often a reflection of the spaces we curate. I’ve been carving out a small haven—a room that punches far above its weight class.

Imagine a space that blends the rugged utility of a home gym and the organized quiet of a walk-in closet with the soul of a high-altitude alpine lodge. I’m talking dark, moody tones, warm wood accents that catch the amber glow of soft lighting, and ski chalet decor that reminds me of long days on the mountain. It’s a place to move the body, yes, but also a sanctuary to unwind, find your zen, and lose yourself in the pages of a real, physical book. Even in a small space, creating a "home within a home" is a vital act of self-care.

Valentine’s Day: Beyond the Plastic and the Post

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, I’m feeling a pull toward a different kind of celebration. We’ve become so accustomed to the fast-paced consumerism of the holiday—the overnight shipping and the digital gift cards.

This year, let’s bring back the analog. Let’s trade the "add to cart" for something handwritten or hand-delivered. Whether it’s a long walk on a snowy trail or a simple meal shared by candlelight, there is a profound beauty in moving away from the noise and returning to the quiet, intentional ways of showing affection.

The Togetherness of the Season

Of course, February isn’t just about the quiet moments. It’s a month of shared energy. Between the roar of the Super Bowl and the rhythmic "click-clack" of ski bindings at the base of the mountain, this is a time for celebration.

The Super Bowl, at its core, isn't just about the game; it’s about the gathering. It’s about the joy of togetherness, the shared snacks, and the collective cheers that echo through a warm house while the wind howls outside. It’s the same spirit I see on the slopes across New England right now—that shared nod of appreciation between strangers who understand the thrill of a perfect run through fresh powder.

Looking Down the Road

I have a full slate of columns prepared for you this month, and I couldn't be more excited to share the stories, the sights, and the rustic rhythms of life as we navigate the rest of this winter.

Take a moment today to put down the phone, dim the overhead lights, and appreciate the blue hour as it settles over the snow. It’s a beautiful time to be alive in New England.

I’ll see you out on the road.