This freezing, dry weather is right up my alley. I love cool, crisp days with the sun shining but never quite warming up all the way – that is unless you are sitting in your car. On those occasions when I’m seeking a little extra warmth, I reach for a comfy hot drink. I think it started when I would go fishing with my Dad. and the only warm thing in the boat was his fresh brewed coffee. I still get all warm and fuzzy remembering those mornings drinking coffee with Dad. I may have to surprise him with coffee and cinnamon rolls soon.

On a cool morning, I start with my traditional two cups of black coffee or the perfect soy latte from my Market Barista. I love ordering my lattes with just soy milk, no flavor, so I can taste the perfectly expressed coffee. They always get the foam just right and top it with lovely foam art that is beautiful and super yummy to sip right off the top.

When I’m needing some wholesome whole grains for breakfast, I normally reach for a spelt scone, oat scone or a walnut bran muffin with my morning coffee, but that Honey Chewy Danish beckons comes with me on my trek to the office, more often than naught. The mini caramel continentals follow me home occasionally, too. When late morning arrives and I have sipped every drop of my deliciously brewed coffee, I start to think of something else warm to drink. OK, got it. You have to try this…

My latest discovery is an apple cider chai that satisfies the need for a bit extra vitamin C this time of year and suits my craving for spices, which are a must for me this time of year. That is the beauty of the chai that we use from My Chai, made in Bend. It isn’t super sweet, like many chai teas I’ve tasted, so pairing it with the natural sweetness of apple cider is delightful.

There are so many yummy drinks and bakery pairings this time of year. Sometimes I wish I never needed protein. I could be like Santa Claus surviving on milk and cookies (except that I am lactose intolerant).

My advice: stop and relax a moment with a cup of delicious Jasmine Pearl Tea. Each month, we feature a special blend from them, so be sure to check what is featured – we are currently featuring a Cranberry Sencha Tea. Chuck and Heather at the Jasmine Pearl Tea Company are so talented at creating new blends. I couldn’t carry them all if I wanted to, so get them while you can.

For the finish to a perfect day, come over to our Retail Bakery tables, which feature a wide selection of amazing gourmet chocolate from local chocolate companies, or try some chocolate of single origin from a variety of countries. Some of my favorites are the Maracaibo pistoles or the Cru Savage pistoles from Fechlin. Pistoles are coins of chocolate easy to melt or perfect to pop in your mouth and enjoy. Ask a Bakery employee to help you choose something new and exciting, then grab a bottle of youy favorite wine from the wine department and put your feet up. The end to a perfect winter’s day….