Bookworm Cottage Style

This week we dropped our kiddo off for his first day at daycare, which is located about a mile from our home. Wanting to start this new chapter off on the right foot, my husband and I decided to walk with the stroller for pickup to get him after his first day. We are fun, active, outdoor parents! Who cares if it is cold?! What would people in Denmark do?!

Roughly two thirds into our journey, we were absolutely frozen. There was no way we were subjecting baby to these temperatures, which somehow reached a “feels like” of around 10 degrees without us realizing. My husband turned around and started jogging home and met me at daycare with the warm car, so the pickup was salvaged. So much for that plan!

This little excursion reminded me that a few new layering pieces would make the winter much more bearable. After living in New England for well over a decade, I’ve found that the right gear makes all the difference. Here are a few pieces that I’m hoping will give me that extra spark of motivation to get outside.

1. L.L. Bean Women’s Mountain Classic Down Coat, Sherpa-Lined in Nautical Navy ($240) // When I was in my twenties I wouldn’t have been caught dead in the long puffy coats that I saw on elderly women around Boston. Maybe I’m aging, but my desire to prioritize outdoor time and comfort is starting to overcome my initial skepticism at the fashion. 
2. Quince 100% Merino Wool Cold Weather Base Layer Legging ($55)  // My legs have been cold lately! I’ve been on the hunt for a lightweight legging that I can easily layer under jeans. These merino leggings look promising. These types of purchases are hard to prioritize (no one sees them!) but have the potential to make a big impact on comfort, motivation, and productivity. 
3. Flawless Legs Fake Translucent Warm Fleece Tights ($33) // Opaque black tights are out, sheer (especially brown) tights are in. I want to give this sherpa pair a try.
4. Merrell Speed Solo Mid WP Hiking Boot in Jade ($150, marked down to $105) // My Merrell hiking boots were purchased nearly seven years ago (!!!) and have trekked with me on hikes in South Africa, South America, and so many places in between. I think it’s time to get a new pair. I’m leaning towards the same brand in a similar style since I know they’re comfortable for me.
5. Smartwool Active Fleece Glove ($50) // Even though mittens are much warmer than gloves, I like having lightweight gloves too. They are easier to slide in and out of my pockets on walks and allow me to react more quickly (grab a burp rag, unlock the door, etc.) when I’m out with the baby.
6. Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjamas in Rainbow Blanket Multigingham Top ($79) & Pants ($79) // After spending as much time outdoors as I hope to, I’ll want a warm pair of pajamas to cozy up with. This multicolor checked pair is made from a thick brushed cotton.