The Coffee Lover’s Guide to Surviving Winter Blues

By Jeremy, Co-Founder of Freedom Forged Coffee Company

Not all of us are lucky enough to live in year-round sunshine, like Mark and Zester down in Puerto Rico. (I’m trying, folks—I really am—but I haven’t quite convinced my wife and kids to pack up and go tropical yet.) For the rest of us braving cold winter days and long, chilly nights—did you catch the snow reports from Houston, New Orleans, and even Pensacola, Florida?—a little extra warmth is a must.

Here in our home, we have a secret weapon: coffee. And not just any coffee—the ritual, the flavors, and the little moments that turn a gloomy winter day into something special. Let me share how coffee gets us through the season and maybe spark a few ideas to brighten up your winter blues.

Morning: Starting the Day with Intentional Brews

My mornings are sacred. Before the day gets rolling, before emails, homeschooling, and the chaos of family life, I take time to brew a cup with my trusty French press. It’s simple, bold, and gives me that kickstart I need to tackle the day. Something about the slow process—the boiling water, the careful pour, the waiting—sets the tone for a day that’s calm and purposeful.

And because we homeschool our two kids (ages 11 and 13), mornings are family time, too. My daughter loves a cozy tea, and my son is becoming a budding coffee enthusiast. We even let them enjoy the occasional coffee drink—though not decaf for now (mostly). And when it’s not coffee, they’re huge fans of the vanilla steamers I whip up on our Breville machine. The creamy froth, a touch of vanilla syrup—it’s a small joy on a cold morning that makes them light up.

Afternoon: Creativity with Coffee

By mid-afternoon, I’m ready for something fun. That’s when I break out the espresso machine for a little latte art experimentation. (Okay, my designs aren’t gallery-worthy, but the attempt is half the fun.) I might add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a wintery twist, or even try a maple latte if I’m feeling adventurous.

If you’ve got kids, afternoons can also be a great time to teach them about brewing. My son’s favorite thing is learning the science behind extraction and ratios. Who knew coffee could double as a homeschool science lesson?

Evening: Winding Down with Decaf—or Not

After the day winds down and the kids are in their own worlds, I’ll admit it: I’m not a decaf guy. But I’ve learned the value of an evening cup that’s as much about the ritual as the caffeine. Whether it’s an Ethiopian brew with its floral notes or our Black Honey Special Reserve for a rich, comforting sip, coffee is my way of unwinding.

Sometimes the kids join me for another round of steamers, or my wife and I might sneak in a date-night coffee on the couch while planning our next adventure (read: convincing her to move to Puerto Rico). These little moments make winter evenings feel warm and connected.

Coffee as Self-Care in Winter

For me, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a chance to pause, and a way to stay grounded when the weather outside is anything but inviting. Here are a few ways you can use coffee to make winter feel a little brighter:

• Morning Rituals: Start your day with an intentional brewing method—French press, pour-over, or your favorite drip machine.
• Midday Treats: Experiment with lattes, cappuccinos, or fun flavor add-ins like caramel, vanilla, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
• Evening Comforts: Enjoy a rich roast for a cozy wind-down routine. Pair it with a book, a blanket, or your favorite winter treat.

Share Your Winter Coffee Stories

What’s your coffee ritual for getting through winter? Do you have a favorite brew, a special recipe, or a go-to routine that keeps you warm and grounded? I’d love to hear your stories—drop them in the comments or send us a message. After all, coffee is better when it’s shared.

Until next time, here’s to surviving the winter blues—one cup at a time. And who knows? Maybe this time next year, I’ll be writing this post from a sunny spot in Puerto Rico. But until then, I’ll be here with my French press, a warm mug, and my family by my side.

What’s your winter coffee ritual? Let us know—we’re all ears (and mugs)!