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It's a great day to stay inside.
Global weirding. Itโs a term Iโve always liked more than โglobal warming,โ and maybe even more than โclimate change.โ Itโs a little cheekier, and sometimes, it just feels more accurate. The phrase never really seemed to take hold, but it seems tailor-made for the insane weather weโve experienced recently. Ten inches of snow in Florida?! Thatโs global weirding.
(United Archives GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo)
About a thousand miles north of the Florida panhandle, in Pennsylvania, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog Day, forecasting six more weeks of winter rather than an early spring. The famous rodent may be better known for his schtick than his accuracy, but one fact holds true: More major storms hit during February than during any other month. In Southern California, where Iโm from, February is historically the wettest month (and letโs pray that Southern California does continue to get rain โ in small, gentle, consistent doses, as opposed to landslide-inducing atmospheric rivers). And in most of North America, March isnโt known for great weather hardly anywhere โฆ except, maybe in Florida and Arizona.
What does this all mean? Well, Iโm not putting away my throw blankets or parka anytime soon. I suspect that Iโll want to keep bundling up for quite some time, and you may want to do the same. Thatโs why this week Iโm sharing some items designed to keep you snug as a bug and entertained indoors, written in the order that you might use the items while enjoying a lazy day.ย I hope this list inspires you to relax and take advantage of the peace that a wintry day can offer.ย
Stay cozy and happy shopping!
โ Elizabeth Weinstein, Marketplace Editorย
Picks for a Perfect Day Inside
Good Foundations
Start your day by sliding your feet into a plush pair of Vermont-made Darn Tough wool socks. The company has an unconditional lifetime warranty: โAs long as โฆ we can tell it was once a Darn Tough sock, weโll cover it.โ (Menโs, womenโs, and kidโs sizes.)
Easy Sweats and Wraps
Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade Certified apparel maker Pact has a great assortment of loungewear. The chic Airplane Collection includes organic cotton separates that will keep you comfy whether youโre in coach or on the couch. (Size-inclusive; menโs and womenโs sizes.)
Comforting Teas
Oregon-based Mountain Rose Herbs prioritizes sustainability and ethical sourcing in its teas and tea blends. The brand offers loose-leaf and bagged teas and quality tea-making tools, including steeping implements and a handy tea bag squeezer (no more burned fingertips or ripped tea bags!).
Attractive, Affordable Rugs
Hook & Loom makes lovely wool and cotton rugs with no dyes, chemicals, or latex, so they never off-gas unpleasant and potentially harmful odors. A plush, 12′ by 16′ rug costs only $1,875, and 5′ by 8′ recycled cotton rugs are just $145. Textile samples, only $5 each, make choosing the right rug easy.
Books, Books, and More Books
Whatโs a cozy day at home without a good book? You can find almost any volume at a great price on ThriftBooks. The site lists books by condition, with many in perfect shape. While not aimed at serious collectors, ThriftBooks also offers a number of rare books and first editions that are fun to browse.
Sumptuous Throws and Blankets
Youโre in comfy clothes and youโve got your book and your tea; now itโs time to snuggle up under the perfect throw blanket. Tartan Blanket Co, a Scottish B Corp, makes luxe, washable blankets from recycled wool and other fiber. They also come in patterns to suit every style, from zen to boho.
Warming Recipes
Whatโs more comforting than the smell of something wonderful cooking? Maine transplant and Bluedot contributor Vanessa Seder recently authored Warm Your Bones, a cookbook full of hearty yet healthful recipes designed to give you a boost on the coldest days.
The Perfect Puzzles
Puzzlers be warned: British-made Wentworth puzzles may become your next obsession. Fortunately, your family will be able to enjoy these laser-cut wood puzzles for generations. Putting together a Wentworth is deeply satisfying. Each sturdy, weighty piece fits so precisely next to its brethren that making a match is a tactile thrill. Quirky, themed “whimsy” pieces make the puzzles even more fun.
Clean-Burning Candles
Burning candles can create a cozy vibe, but many candles on the market contain plastics that may actually pollute indoor air. (Paraffin? No thank you!) We love these elegant pillars and tapers from Colorado-based Bluecorn Candles, which imbue your home with a subtle yet pure honey smell.
