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Welcome to Northern Soul. I’m Laurel. I document adventures that delight me in the Great Lakes region. I hope they delight you too. Happy exploring.

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Cozy Holiday Gifts that Spark Comfort + Joy

Cozy Holiday Gifts that Spark Comfort + Joy

Winter is upon us. Time to bust out all manner of cozy splendors. For me, it’s all things soft and warm. There’s nothing better than cozying up after a day exploring in a sparkly-sunny-frozen winter wonderland. Or—perhaps more often— trudging through a gray-all-day slush fest.

As you’re making your holiday plans, wish lists, and gift lists, I thought I’d share my favorite cozy items that keep me merry and bright during these dark days.

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ONE: Ultra Cozy Everday Sweater \\The Everlane Oversized Alpaca Crew

I ordered this sweater in an extra color this winter because it is just that good. I wore it nearly every day last winter because it is silky soft, light, and endlessly warm and cozy. It is the everyday winter sweater you need.

TWO: A Night Spent over a Charcueterie Board \\Triple Cream Brie and Almondina Cookies from the The Cheese Lady

An evening spent over a spread of cheese, meat, and fruit is always enlivening even on the dreariest days. My favorite contribution is triple cream brie paired with Almondina Cookies. They are a match made in creamy cheese heaven. This pair is my go-to when prepping to attend or host holiday parties or winter gatherings. The staff at The Cheese Lady suggested it. p.s. visiting The Cheese Lady is a delight within itself (think countless cheese options and cheese experts and samples to help you choose).

THREE: Balsam or Spruce Scented Candle \\ Frasier Fir Pine Needle Candle

I’m a fresh Christmas tree kind of girl, and these candles extend the spirit all winter long. I don’t normally burn many candles at home, but I make an exception every year for a balsam or spruce candle. It fills my heart with Christmas joy every time I light it.

FOUR: Durable, Moisture-wicking Socks \\ Smart Wool Hiking Socks

There’s nothing worse than wet, cold feet in the winter. That is why I always ask for thick, warm Smartwool socks. Excellent socks are a non-negotiable staple in my winter wardrobe.

FIVE: Insulated Tumbler \\ Hydroflask Tumbler

A hot beverage can take me from chilly and shivering to content and cozy in a matter of minutes. To keep beverages warm all day, I suggest a insulated Hydroflask tumbler.

SIX: House Shoes/Slippers \\ Glerups Wool Slippers

Perflectly warm wool slippers with a sturdy sole for days spent at home sans frozen toes.

SEVEN: Cozy, Plush Blanket \\ LLBean Throw Blanket

The softer the better. Everyone needs a velvety soft blanket to curl up with on the couch.

EIGHT: Super Soft Flannel Sheets \\ Boll and Branch Flannel Sheets

Keep that soft feeling from the couch to your bed with super-warm flannel sheets. They add an extra level of heat and keep your totally toasty on the coldest nights.

NINE: Tea and Teapot \\ Teapot and Loose Leaf Tea from Light of Day Organics

Again, hot beverages reign supreme during these colder months. I recieved a teapot with loose leaf tea as a gift last Christmas and I still use it every day. It gets me through cold mornings and boosts my energy during afternoon slumps. I love the ritual of working alongside a pot of hot tea.

TEN: Indoor Excercise Classes \\ On shoes

My indoor gym classes get me through winter in bright spirits. These On shoes are the lightweight shoes I excercise in when shoes are required (i.e. no shoes required for yoga!) A gift certificate to a local gym is a great gift I’ve recieved in the past and gifted myself too. In my opinion, there is no better investment than the investment in mental and physical health. Locally, I love: Yen Yoga , Lux Body Fitness, Original Hot Yoga, and the YMCA.

ELEVEN: Practical Hiking Boots \\ Oboz Insulated Waterproof Boots

As Mom to an an Australian Shepard in Northern Michigan, hiking on icy, wet terrain is a daily occurence for me all winter long. I’ve been searching for years for boots with the right combination of stability, warmth, height, and traction and I’ve finally met my match with these.

I hope you enjoy upping your hygge game this season and lifting your spirits (and the spirits of those you love) with some of these items.

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