As a Charlotte transplant from the north, I LOVE our short winters here! We’ve had a little snow, and now we’re hunkering down for another month or so of cold temps (Yes, I realize 45 degrees isn’t that cold, but it’s funny how fast you become a WIMP when you move south!). Chilly winter has me craving all things cozy…here are a few of my current favorite places & things that bring me joy in January!
Favorite Coffee Shop: Prodigal (The Gallery)
This cozy spot serves up the best flat white! Splurge and treat yourself to a homemade poptart by baker Wander & Whisk…so worth it!! My favorite is the pecan pie. Located up a staircase between Monkee’s and The Village Store, it’s just comfy and cool. It’s perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend or getting some work done!
Favorite Spot for Date Night:
Fork (Cornelius) is so cozy with a great vibe…busy and bustling, but it a quiet kind of way. The menu is ever changing. I’ve never gotten the same thing twice, but it is ALWAYS delicious and creative!
Malabar (Uptown) is a Spanish tapas style restaurant. They have larger entrees too, but we love making a whole meal out of small plates! I love being able to try several different things instead of having to choose just one! Great, cozy atmosphere and great specials, too!
Favorite Tea: Tazo Cucumber White
I reach my coffee limit after 2 or 3 cups, but cold weather has be craving warm beverages all day. This has been my current favorite…light, fresh, and warm. Available at Harris Teeter or Publix!
Favorite Read: The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
This one has helped me conquer the snooze button and start my days with a morning routine that brings me joy, gratitude, and energy! It’s a must read, especially during these cold months when we don’t want to get out of bed! I highly recommend the audiobook version…the author reads it herself, and she’s amazing!
Favorite Facial Moisturizer: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel-Cream
My skin is SO DRY in the winter, and this feels so good on my face without getting greasy like a lotion. Great for all skin types! Lasts forever.
Favorite Place to Take the Kiddos to Burn Energy on a Cold Day: W8Less LKN (Cornelius)
My boys LOVE this place, and I love it more than most tranpoline parks, because it’s slightly smaller, so I feel like I can always keep my eye on both boys. They love the “ninja” obstacle course and the springboard foam pit, and they always play HARD, so they get out their crazies and leave tired…my kinda place!
Favorite Cozy Sweater: JCrew Turtleneck Sweater with Side Slits in Supersoft Yarn
I have this in two colors and keep reaching for them! So incredibly soft and they drape perfectly. They are on sale and still available in several colors and in many sizes, but they are going fast!
Favorite Silly Little Household Item that Makes Me Happy: Solar Powered Rainbow Maker
We got this as a gift, and now I love gifting them to others. On a day when it’s deceivingly sunny, but much too cold to be outside for long, it just always makes me smile to see the tiny rainbows dancing on the walls, especially when my kids notice and get so excited when they appear. Just a little dose of happy.
I’m planning to make this a regular “thing” in my newsletters for 2019! Stay tuned for more favorites in future issues!
