As a teen growing up in South Carolina, you learn many things from a young age. One thing that I learned to appreciate was the concept of winter because it doesn’t get as cold here as it does in the north and I love all of the fun winter-themed holiday items and traditions. So, without further ado, I present my top 5 things about Winter living in South Carolina!

1. Peppermint. Once it becomes wintertime, everything from Starbucks drinks to candles is peppermint scented, and I absolutely LOVE it! Peppermint is such a relaxing and calming scent and flavor, but it is so specific to the Winter season. You can drink a peppermint latte any time of year, but it only makes sense to drink it around the Winter, making it so delicious. 
2. Hot Chocolate. Once it becomes all cold outside it becomes hot chocolate season. It is the absolute perfect drink to help you warm up after a long day as you snuggle under your cozy blankets. Going along with my first point, peppermint hot chocolate is one of the best things you will ever taste. It is so delicious and warm that it just makes your heart happy. 
3. Fuzzy socks. Eventually, it becomes too cold for only hot chocolate to keep you warm. This is where fuzzy socks come into play! They come in sooooo many colors, patterns, and styles that it is nearly impossible to choose a pair. That is why my fuzzy sock collection is so extensive. I quite literally have a pair of socks perfect for any wintertime occasion or activity. 
4. Christmas lights. During late-night drives, seeing all the houses in my neighborhood lit up is just so fun to see. Some houses have crazy elaborate displays complete with lasers and blowups, but others just have simple white lights, which are just as fun too. I love seeing all of the beautiful lights shining a path for me during my typically dark drive through the dark.  
5. The Nutcracker. My final favorite thing is the Nutcracker. I know this one is a little bit more niche, which is why it is ranked at number five. I love seeing all the beauty and magic that is the ballet The Nutcracker. As a dancer myself, it is a real treat that I get to perform most years, and this performance holds such a special place in my heart. Especially because it is only performed in the wintertime, the Nutcracker has quickly become my favorite Christmas tradition simply because of all the memories it holds.