Disclosure: Thank you to Backcountry and ShopStyle for sponsoring today’s post. All products were selected, purchased and loved by yours truly.

In the blink of an eye, the holidays came and went. We ate, we drank [a whole lot of eggnog], and we were merry. It seems like just yesterday I was ringing in the New Year- from the comfort of my couch, of course. And just like that, January is already coming to an end. If you’re anything like me, then you’re beyond ready for “what’s next”. While my heart is aching for sunshine and warmer spring days, my thermometer as well as my frozen snotcicles [if you know, you know] are bringing me back to a chilly midwest reality. We all know just how easy it is to hole up in the house all winter long to escape the cold, but this season we’re being more intentional about spending some time outdoors and getting a little bit of fresh air. Lucky for us, Backcountry is here to keep us nice and warm [snotcicles no more!].

If you’re new to shopping at Backcountry, you should know that they’re a premium retailer for top outdoors & lifestyle brands with everything from clothing to jackets to shoes to gear. They carry all of your favorite outdoor brands including but not limited to Patagonia, Prana, Mammut, Arc’teryx and more. If that doesn’t make you jump in your [waterproof, warm, fuzzy] boots I don’t know what will. Add in the fact that they offer free 2-day shipping over $50 and their customer service is out of this world – seriously, the best I’ve ever experienced, there is no reason why Backcountry shouldn’t be a go-to retailer when giving in to your daily online shopping habits. Don’t forget- Backcountry is offering a special discount code for Living in Yellow readers! Use code YELLOW15 for 15% off your first purchase at Backcountry.com [exclusions apply]!

It’s amazing what some fresh air can do for the soul. I’ll be the first to admit that these cold grey days can play a role in those mental funks we often find ourselves in this season. But there’s just something to be said about getting outside [and in our case, hanging with a few gal pals and sipping on hot cocoa] to clear your mind and lift your spirits. The LIY Team recently got together to spend some time taking in the great outdoors [and by “great outdoors” I mean the front yard] and embracing all Mother Nature has to offer. Spoiler Alert: It’s cold weather. Cold weather is what she has to offer. Luckily,Backcountry was there to keep us comfortable and cozy.

TRAVELCHAIR Camp Chair

Sorel Lexie Wedge Boot [TTS] // The North Face CloseFit Gore Fleece Glove [Tnf Black] // YETI Rambler Mug [Reef Blue]

Today I’m sharing a look at our hot cocoa + s’more spread and of course, what we wore! Each of the girls on the team are also sharing a few of their personal favorite winter activities to add to your winter bucket list. Bundle up! 

ERIN

Lole Gisele Original Down Jacket [TTS, wearing Burgundy] // The North Face CloseFit Gore Fleece Glove [Tnf Black] // DAKINE Kylie Pom Beanie // YETI Rambler Mug [Reef Blue]

I don’t think there is anything more refreshing than getting outdoors in the cold air taking in a new town or city by foot! We love to explore local to us towns in the winter [or my favorite of all – the big city of Chicago] while bundled up! Dip into a local coffee shop or bar in the middle of exploring to warm up but then get back out there, breathing in the crisp air and enjoying the scenery! 

BECCA

Hestra Fryken Mitten // YETI Rambler [20 oz, Clay]

Bundle up and go for a wintery walk in a new neighborhood. My husband and I love to walk down each street and imagine ourselves living in the houses we pass. We each pick our favorite houses on the block and talk about what type of home we would want to purchase next. It’s like HGTV’s House Hunters, but with exercise! 

STEPH

Stoic Hooded Lightweight Insulated Parka [TTS, wearing large] // Outdoor Research BioSensor Glove [Mulberry] // Pom Beanie [Plum] // YETI Rambler [River Green, 20oz] 

Go for a Winter Walk Scavenger Hunt with the kids! For my little ones since they cannot read, I like to print out photos of the items we’re looking for and tape it to the front of a sturdy book. They love walking on a trail looking for the items to check off their list. Search for things like animal tracks, berries, pine cones, bird nest, pine needles, icicles to name a few!

CASSIDY

Patagonia Dusty Mesa Parka // Birdseye Pom Beanie [Red] // Patagonia Better Sweater Gloves [Purple] // Hydro Flask 16oz Tumbler [White]

Who says campfires are just for the warm summer months? Bundle up and start the fire no matter what the temp! There’s something special about sitting outside surrounded by snow as the fire heats up. We love our campfire grill grate, which is perfect for throwing on some breakfast in the morning, foil-wrapped dinners, or even soups! And when all else fails, hot cocoa and some s’mores always do the trick! 

HANNAH

Pendleton Cable Glove [Cloud] // The North Face Aconcagua II Down Jacket [TTS, wearing small] // Hydro Flask 12oz Coffee Mug [Black]

I’m a firm believer that anyone can go sledding no matter their age! Favorite memory was from college, sledding with my sister and friend late at night and having the best time! Get your family members together, friends, a group of couples or you and your hubby and kiddos! I promise you will have fun, and maybe even sweat a little!

CLAIRE

The North Face Cable Minna Earband // The North Face Cable Minna Mitten// YETI Rambler [White, 20oz] // Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket [TTS, wearing medium]

Challenge yourself to learn something new! From skiing to ice skating, you’re never too old to take on a new hobby. Most ski resorts offer lessons for all age ranges– don’t be shy, you won’t be the only first-timer! Whatever new activity you’re taking on, bundle up and have a blast. And cocoa ALWAYS helps! 

For your Pinning pleasure-