As much as we’re looking forward to spring, it seems like we’re in for even more cold fronts. In the vein of staying safe (and warm!) in what could potentially be a dangerous situation, we’ve gathered 13 last-minute essentials you should always keep on-hand in light of severe cold fronts and power outages.
Being prepared with these ‘emergency kit’ items is crucial, and the best, most convenient part is they’re all shoppable onAmazon, who’ll get ‘em at your door within days or sometimes even hours so you can be sure you’re covered.
Amazon
Balaclavas are like beanies – but better – since they cover more of your face, which makes a huge difference in how you perceive the cold. This one comes with adjustable straps to help you trap in even more body heat.
Amazon
Where would we be without our heated blanket? Having one in the living room or bedroom is super helpful, especially if your radiator or central heating goes kaput. In the case your power's completely out, this can still function as a practical extra layer of warmth.
Amazon
Carhartt beanies are unmatched when it comes to the comfiness and warmth they bring.
Amazon
This pick is pretty self-explanatory. Space heaters are the MVP of keeping you warm, especially in places that your regular heater may have difficulty reaching, like the bathroom.
Amazon
In addition to a reliable beanie, a scarf is a winter must. We recommend you opt for a big, soft one like this!
Amazon
Same thing goes for good gloves – shop for ones that are waterproof, snow-proof, and expertly insulated.
Amazon
Insulated cups and mugs are wintertime's BFF since they'll keep your tea, coffee, or hot chocolate hot for longer, warming you up from the inside out.
Amazon
If you have to brave the cold, HotHands are the OG way of keeping your hands warm. You can even throw them in your shoes if your toes tend to freeze and you don't have insulated snow shoes in your closet. Just remember it's a temporary fix!
Amazon
Anyone who lives in a snowy place knows that a snow brush is a smart investment for, well, brushing off the snow from your car. This one is especially nice since the other end boasts a scraper to tackle pesky frost and ice!
Amazon
In case of a power outage, you're going to want to have a flashlight, lantern, and some old-fashioned candles handy. This product in particular is rechargeable, so make sure it has a full charge!
Amazon
If you opt for a battery-powered flashlight (or other device), batteries are key. Luckily, Amazon sells a ton of different kinds for same-day delivery.
Amazon
Cold front or not, a fully-stocked first aid kit is crucial for responding to emergencies. This one comes complete with stuff to address wounds, cuts, scrapes, and aches.
Amazon
Splurging on a generator can be a really great idea if you live somewhere where power outages and/or natural disasters are common. This one is fashioned with plenty of different plugs and can power devices and more for days.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Baby name trends will always come and go, but some classic picks will just never go out of style. These monikers, occasionally called "old man" names, stand the test of time for a reason. They're strong, vintage, and sometimes hold historical significance.
So, if you're welcoming a baby boy into your family soon, you can't go wrong with an old man baby name. Here are our top picks that are packed with character.
With German roots, Walter is a compelling name that's derived from the Old High German Walthari. It combines the elements "walt," which means "power," and "hari," meaning "warrior." This gives Walter the meaning of "commander of the army."
Its regal sound and commanding symbolism make Walter the perfect fit for a boy who's destined to be a future leader.
This distinguished name has deep historical roots and was most famously carried by the former American president and founding father, Benjamin Franklin.
It originates from the Middle English word "frankeleyn" and was originally used as a surname, meaning "freeman" or "freeholder." Franklin carries a sense of independence, intellect, and hard work, all qualities that most parents hope to instill in their little ones.
French in origin, Leroy is bold and actually means "the king." This name hit its height of popularity during the mid-nineteenth century, but to this day, it continues to exude strength and authority.
Many expectant parents across the globe keep choosing this moniker for their newest additions because it's a timeless choice that feels both distinguished and approachable.
With Irish roots, Grady means "noble" and "renowned" and has a rugged, adventurous vibe. It might make you think of an outdoorsy little boy with a curious spirit who's always seeking out new experiences.
Grady has traditionally been considered a boy's name, but in recent years, it's been used as a gender-neutral choice, too.
Kenneth is a name with deep Scottish ties, as it was famously borne by the first King of Scotland. Then, author Sir Walter Scott popularized Kenneth outside of the nation in his 1825 novel The Talisman.
More recently, the name became a household one when Barbie's boyfriend, Ken, was introduced to children everywhere in 1959. Kenneth actually holds two appealing meanings, "good looking" and "fire born."
Preston is English in origin and means "priest's town" or "priest's estate," offering a nice blend of history and charm. This name is also associated with a historic town in Northern England that was known for playing a significant role in the Industrial Revolution.
With an air of sophistication and a connection to faith, Preston is a great choice for parents who want their little boy to stand out.
While Casper might call to mind the friendly ghost that graced our TV screens during the '90s, it actually dates back to the Old Testament. This cute name has Persian origins and means "treasurer bearer," which couldn't be more appropriate for the newest gift in your life.
Casper is derived from the Chaldean word "gizbar," meaning "treasurer," and can be spelled in multiple ways, such as Caspar or Kaspar.
Finally, Harold is derived from Old English, Germanic, and Old Norse variations, all of which carry the strong meaning of "army ruler" or "heroic leader."
Historically, this name was favored by Scandinavian settlers and royals throughout England, Norway, and Denmark. Despite its interesting history, Harold is surprisingly underused today, making it a distinctive option for parents who want a name that's classic and still a bit unique.
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With all the sweetness surrounding February 14th, it's no wonder that Valentine's Day desserts are some of our favorites! Sweethearts, sweet desserts, sweet date ideas… it never stops. And when it comes to holiday-themed desserts, you have plenty of pink, red and heart-shaped ideas at your disposal, from healthy Valentine's Day fruit salad recipes to colorful red velvet cheese tart recipes. But here are our absolute *favorite* romantic dessert recipes for lovebirds!
Image via Mister Mister/Pexels
If it's sweet and maybe features either chocolate or fruit, there's a good chance it's a popular Valentine's Day dessert. With everything from chocolate-covered strawberries and strawberry donuts to cheesecake, chocolate raspberry treats, and crème brûlée, there's something for everyone this Valentine's Day!
If you're less of a baked goods kind of dessert-lover, don't worry. There's plenty of candy to choose from. Lollipops, Hershey's kisses, chocolate bars, and candy hearts are all some of our favorite Valentine's Day desserts.
Image via Ella Olsson/Pexels
Image via Kalei Winfield/Pexels
When it comes to the best Valentine's Day desserts, some say crème brûlée, some say chocolate chip cookies, but we'd say dark chocolate strawberries are our favorite. No matter what you make, you can't go wrong if it's something that you love!
We were always happy to get lollipops in our valentines as kids, why should that change once you become an adult?! This DIY version calls for sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin dessert. Just don't forget the gold stars! (via Brit + Co)
It's no fun missing out on ice cream when you have a food sensitivity or dietary restriction. Dairy-free sundaes to the rescue! Add some homemade hot fudge and dig in ;) (via Brit + Co)
This sweetened cheese makes for the perfect Valentine's Day dessert since it's flaky and gooey, (and heart-shaped!) all at the same time! (via Brit + Co)
Every Galentine's get together or Valentine's brunch deserves food that looks this cute. If you're more of a pancakes gal, use your spoon to pour the batter into the shape of a heart. Drizzle with some icing, top with sprinkles, and enjoy. (via Brit + Co)
The glossy, candied sheen on top of this tart comes from brushing a generous amount of strawberry jam right on the berries. With the fruity burst of flavor and the rich vanilla custard, this might just become your date night dessert from here on out. (via Brit + Co)
Pastels are always a good idea this time of year, and the candy hearts add a nice crunch. This sweet Valentine's Day dessert is a guaranteed success! (via Brit + Co)
Not only do these cookies only need three ingredients, but they're also gluten-free *and* vegan! If you have someone with a peanut allergy, just swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and you're set. (via Brit + Co)
Chocolate bonbons sound expensive and difficult, but this recipe is the opposite of that. Using your favorite toppings and an ice tray, you can make your own collection of chocolate goodies for all your galentines, valentines, and even a few for yourself too. (viaBrit + Co)
This recipe is a fun one to make because once you've melted and mixed all the ingredients (and refrigerated for an hour), it's time to get down and dirty! Roll them into balls between your hands and top them with cacao powder, shredded coconut, or chopped pistachios. (via Brit + Co)
When it's time to cozy up by the fire with your boo, make a mug of this *delicious* hot chocolate. This Valentine's Day dessert recipe requires only four ingredients (whole milk, milk powder, cornstarch, and dark chocolate) and once you try it, you'll never go back to the powdered stuff. (via Brit + Co)
Why bake an entire pie that you cut into triangles when you can make a bunch of tiny heart-shaped ones instead? When scooping your filling, make sure to leave enough room around the cherries to press the crusts together. Pass the plate, please! (via Brit + Co)
Ditch the meat and cheese (even if it's only for one day) in favor of a charcuterie board brimming with all your favorite sweets. We're talking candy, donuts, chocolate, cookies. Our mouths are already watering. (via Brit + Co)
Instead of giving your friends and family paper valentines, make some cookies that will let them know how you feel! Bonus points if you can come up with some funny burger-related puns. Use an edible marker to write them down. (via Brit + Co)
There's no doubt that donut holes are delicious, but we think they should look as good as they taste! Withmatcha powder, raspberry juice, and lemon juice for color, and fondant for the little faces, you'll never eat a plain donut hole again. (via Brit + Co)
This pie is great because it's totally customizable to include your favorite filling. Alphabet cookie cutters mean you can also pick your own phrase. Go with funny, romantic, or find a mix of both! (via Brit + Co)
We're pretty sure you can never have too many cheesecake recipes, and that includes this no-bake recipe. While it does call for cream cheese and Greek yogurt, you can definitely swap for non-dairy substitutes if you have allergies. (via Brit + Co)
One of the most fun parts about baking a dessert is getting to decorate with whatever colorful, whacky designs you can think of. And these Pop Tarts are about as whacky as they get! Plus since you're making them yourself, you don't have to get stuck with a flavor you don't like. Whew. (via Brit + Co)
Move over popsicles, there's a new treat-on-a-stick in town. Cut up marshmallows and use chocolate buttons to create the animal faces, or just have some fun dipping the edges into different colors. Either way, you'll get an all-out waffle. (via Brit + Co)
While this Valentine's Day dessert recipe calls for non-dairy ice cream, if you'd rather stick to something that's already in your fridge, try frozen Greek yogurt or blended frozen bananas. Drizzle with your melted chocolate morsels and then prepare yourself for the longest 10 minutes of your life while they set in the fridge. (via Brit + Co)
Even when it's just you and your S.O. on Valentine's Day, you still want to have a good time, and these Jell-O Shots are an easy way to par-tay. Make them ahead of time so they can refrigerate overnight. You'll have them ready for V-Day *and* you won't have to worry about them while you're making dinner. (via Brit + Co)
Make these scones to go with an evening cup of tea or (if you want some extra chocolate), hot cocoa! Some espresso powder mixed into the batter and the coffee whipped cream take things to the next level. (via Brit + Co)
Replace your trusty chicken and veggie kabob recipe with strawberries and cream. Grilled fruit might sound weird if you've never had it, but trust us: this is one trend you'll want to try. (via Brit + Co)
We'll eat waffles for breakfast, dinner, or dessert. This romantic, colorful recipe is the perfect way to celebrate V-Day *and* look ahead towards spring at the same time. (via Brit + Co)
This bright orange Valentine's Day dessert is made with one of our favorite winter finds: grapefruit! Gelatin, cream cheese, and condensed milk come together for a recipe that's great for V-Day, summer picnics, and a birthday cake alternative. (via Brit + Co)
This terrine gives "ice cream cake" a whole new meaning. We're obsessed with the berry layers that make this a perfect V-Day, spring, or summer treat. Before you sprinkle your go-to berries around the edge, pop them in the freezer to give your dish some extra crunch. (via Brit + Co)
We know that donuts make a great breakfast food, but that doesn't stop us from eating them any time of day! Separate white icing into a few different cups and add different amounts of your favorite food coloring to get the ombré color effect. (via Brit + Co)
Who says boxed cake can't be as good as the made-from-scratch stuff? There are tons of easy hacks — like swapping oil for butter, adding coffee, or even including instant pudding in your cake batter — that can upgrade your blend. (via Brit + Co)
Underneath that mouthwatering glaze, these donuts are chock full of fresh berries, Greek yogurt, and whole wheat flour. Doctor yours up with chocolate chips and cocoa powder for a chocolate-covered strawberries spin, or add in more berries for a very berry donut instead. (via Brit + Co)
Margs are a great afternoon treat but make one that's sweet enough and you can serve it as dessert too! Agave and strawberries balance out the heat from the jalapeños, but if you're not a fan of spice, feel free to leave the peppers out entirely. Pour and enjoy! (via Brit + Co)
These skewered treats are equal parts sweet and boozy. They'll be the perfect snack to share with your boo! (via Brit + Co)
Put your sweets-loving skills to the test with these candy-colored (and candy-filled) milkshakes. Stuff with all your favorite lollipops, marshmallows, donuts, chocolate bark...you get the picture. The more colors, the better. (via Brit + Co)
While these only take 15 minutes to make the day you're baking, don't forget that they also take 15 minutes the day before. You'll refrigerate the batter overnight so that it chills + thickens, giving the madeleines their recognizable hump. (via Brit + Co)
To get the tie-dye effect of this cake, add food coloring to your batter while it's in different jars. Pour the batter into your mug in layers, but make sure to only fill halfway so that it doesn't overflow. Once you've got your mug assembled, you just have to pop it in the microwave for a minute and a half. (via Brit + Co)
As far as we're concerned, when it comes to Valentine's Day desserts, any kind of chocolate takes the cake (we couldn't resist that pun!). Everything about this recipe is a good idea, including licking the bowl. (via Brit + Co)
The best part about these treats is that not only are they easy to make, but they also only take 45 minutes! A heart-shaped silicone mold is the secret to making them extra cute. Simple enough that a baby cherub could do it. (via Brit + Co)
Keep your fingers clean with this hands-free drink. Not a huge fan of vanilla? Just swap the regular milk and vanilla ice cream for chocolate instead. (via Brit + Co)
Beaten eggs are used in place of flour to make these cupcakes a great option for gluten-free gals. Once the cupcakes are finished, just dollop with cream, jam, and a raspberry and serve immediately. You won't want to wait to try these! (via Brit + Co)
This is one kind of heartbreak that feels good. Whip this edible box up and fill it with candies and (more) chocolates that your Valentine will love. (via A Spicy Perspective)
To make this gluten-free and vegan Valentine's Day dessert, whisk 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 2/3 cup of a peanut butter like the Cocoa PB2, 1/4 cup of unsweetened dairy-free milk, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1 pinch sea salt together. Mix in 1/4 cup of maple syrup or agave nectar, add to a wax paper-lined loaf pan and chill in the fridge for an hour in the freezer or three to four hours in the fridge. Sprinkle with freeze-dried strawberries and chocolate drizzle. (recipe and image courtesy of Leelalicious)
For people who don't have a crazy sweet tooth, balance sweet and savory with this recipe. Besides the fact that it isn't super sweet, this snack also only requires two ingredients: almonds and chocolate. By making it yourself, you'll also know exactly what you're putting into your body. (via Almonds.com)
This sweet treat make the perfect topper to ice cream or an in-between spread for a cake, but it tastes just as good when it you eat straight from the jar. (via Culinary Hill)
This cookie with a molten chocolate core is large enough to go halfsies with your date. Although if we're honest, we could also eat an entire one while we binge watch Valentine's romcoms. (via Hot Chocolate Hits)
Speaking of rich, silky treats, these mini cheesecakes are perfect for Valentine’s Day. Feel free to serve them as-is, or get creative with holiday-inspired (think pink hearts and bright colors) cupcake liners. You can also use heart-shaped cookie cutters to make these goodies extra festive. (via Away from the Box)
This bad boy is for real chocoholics. It’s EXPLODING with chocolate-y goodness, stuffed with tons of cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips. Bonus points for the colorful heart-shaped sprinkles on top. (via Sally’s Baking Addiction)
Fudgy brownie fans, this one's for you. Chocolate covered strawberries are a Valentine’s Day hallmark, but we love this creative, and much more indulgent, iteration. Serve with a fruity (and preferably pink) cocktail that cuts the sweetness. (via Closet Cooking)
Crème brûlée is arguably the quintessential date-night dessert for two, so why not serve it on V-day? This version is made with the floral tastes of delicate lavender, making it a feminine and romantic choice. If you don't have a blowtorch to crisp the sugar topping, place the dish under your broiler instead. (via Lavender and Macarons)
This delicious tiramisu mousse is ready in about 20 minutes, and is a cinch to make (really!). Coffee lovers rejoice. (via Crazy for Crust)
Wait until right before serving to add fresh strawberries on top of these babies. Mix the chopped berries with a bit of sugar and they'll release some of their juices for an extra flavorful bite! (via Chocolate With Grace)
The crust on this Valentine's Day dessert is made from scratch, so this isn't the most low-maintenance option… but we don't mind. It's certainly one of the most delicious! (via Home Cooking Adventure)
Mug cakes are easy to whip up in roughly one minute with the help of a microwave. These particular mug cakes are made with sparkling rosé, sugar, milk and flour (and can be made right in the coupe glass!). Sprinkle with candy pearls before serving. (via Kirbie's Cravings)
If rosé mug cakes don’t sound like an enticing Valentine's Day dessert, maybe this easy chocolate recipe is more up your alley. Bonus: It’s super easy to make… in fact, it’s no-bake! (via Crazy for Crust)
These yogurt bites are so good that you might mistake them for ice cream. But with high-protein Greek yogurt, whole cherries, and maple syrup, they're a lot better for you. (via Greenletes)
Here’s another no-bake idea for you. This layered dessert is flavored with strawberries, vanilla and bananas, and is so flexible that it can be made into whatever shape you desire (hearts, anyone?). (via Cakes Cottage)
We love, love, love dark chocolate and we cannot WAIT to dig into this recipe! This cake is simply bursting with the flavors of rich, chocolatey dark cocoa and will pair nicely with a glass of milk. (via Diethood)
Another Valentine's Day dessert idea for the chocolate-obsessed: this frothy, whippy chocolate mousse. It also happens to be amazingly easy to make, and simply has to chill in the fridge for about two hours before it’s perfect and ready to enjoy. Even the kids will love this one! (via Cookies & Cups)
This traditional yet simple-to-prepare recipe is ideal for rounding out an Italian-inspired V-day dinner. Side note: You’ll notice that this recipe calls for raw eggs. Don’t be alarmed — this is the traditional way to make tiramisu. But feel free to beat the eggs over a double broiler if you feel uncomfortable with using them raw. (via Recipe Tin Eats)
Give the gift of love and pastries when you bake up a sweet, edible heart. Cover in cinnamon sugar or dip in chocolate, but you can't go wrong, whichever way you choose to make them. (via Salt & Lavender)
Red velvet is so passé (JK, we love red velvet cake). But this *pink* velvet cake is even more interesting and romantic, and we are totally on board with that. Top with chopped strawberries for the finishing touch. (via Cake Whiz)
This sweet and fruity cheesecake recipe is a major crowd pleaser, so it’s perfect for serving at your Valentine’s Day dinner, Galentine's gathering, or family brunch. (via Foody Schmoody Blog)
Champagne is the perfect way to toast your honey on Valentine's Day, and what better way to do that than with a Champagne-infused dessert? This cake *literally* has bubbly baked right into it. And it's also topped with raspberry-Champagne buttercream. (via The Cake Blog)
This indulgent dessert has everything you love about chocolate cake, but it comes with a catch: it’s made in a convection oven! If you don’t have one, no worries. It can easily be adapted to work with a regular oven instead. (via Through Her Looking Glass)
Is it weird to call cupcakes sexy? Because these cupcakes are *sexy.* They're made with rich chocolate batter, topped with silky buttercream and finished off with a fresh, chocolate-covered cherry. Hot. (via Baked by an Introvert)
If you're someone who prefers your Valentine's Day desserts on the more fresh, less sweet side, then you have to try this recipe. The cream topping and almonds take it to the next level. (via Forks & Foliage)
Follow us on Pinterest for more yummy Valentine's Day desserts!
Additional reporting by Chloe Williams and Meredith Holser.
This article has been updated from a previous post.
My love for making latte recipes has come to a halt with the news I need to balance my hormones. I could curse the sky for this minor inconvenience, but I've been testing low-to-no caffeine coffee alternatives to curb my sadness. Thanks to Google, I've found 10 of the best products ever created.
I know this sounds far-fetched, but I think I may opt to drink them more often than relying on things full of acidic caffeine!
Live Conscious
Starting off with the first coffee alternative I've tried, Live Conscious' Beyond Brew Vanilla Latte is high on my list because almost forgot I wasn't drinking my Nescaf Gold Instant Coffeelatte mix. My favorite thing about it is how easy it is on my tummy. Coffee usually gives me an extreme case of gas cramps, but this doesn't. I think it's because it's filled with ingredients like turkey tail and other probiotics!
Everyday Dose
Next up is Everyday Dose's Mushroom Coffee! Made with 80% less coffee than other brands, it's way better than Dr. Robotnik's recipes in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. It's easy on digestive and nervous systems because it's full of ingredients like collagen, chaga, and lion's mane. So, you get the boost of energy without the weird jitters and pained run to the bathroom!
MUD/WTR
Is Matcha coffee-adjacent? It depends on who you ask, but it's technically not. I just love drinking it when I feel like I've exhausted my go-to latte drink. MUD/WTR's starter kit only has 55g of caffeine in it which is a better alternative than your go-to coffee drink. Trust me!
World Wide Botanicals
Not only is this coffee alternative caffeine free, but it's not acidic either! I especially love that how the chicory breaks down into a healthy prebiotic that helps the right kind of bacteria flourish in your digestive tract. Knowing that most illnesses begin in our stomachs, I love how this promotes a healthy version of what coffee lovers typically drink.
Anthony's Goods
Do you need another reason to drink chicory root? Not really, but Anthony's Goods has another alternative that's just as good as World Wide Botanicals' version. Besides being caffeine-free, this product's also gluten-free and has non-GMO properties. The taste is just an extra benefit!
Rasa Koffee
What I want? More mushroom coffee ASAP! This vegan product is also great for anyone who's following a Whole 30 or Ayurvedic diet. It has 13 natural herbs in it and helps you feel less stressed with each cup you drink. How's that for an incentive to reach for coffee alternatives?
Walmart
Calling all barley lovers! I've found instant coffee crystals that are 100% caffeine-free! Amazingly enough, Cafix has figured out how to leave out the ingredient that makes some of us experience a post-coffee crash and I love that. I will say it's a little pricey for Instant Coffee, but you don't need to use that much.
Teeccino
The name 'Turkey Tail' may sound hilarious, but this blend is so good it's not funny. It's another acid-free, pre-biotic drink that doesn't taste like raw mushrooms (so important) and it brews like your favorite drink. Not bad.
Banyan Botanicals
If you don't need a ton of sugar or caramel syrup in your coffee, you'll enjoy drinking this chicory and dandelion mix. It a;so has adaptogens and prebiotics for a bold flavor you'll enjoy before a busy day. Plus, the fact it's caffeine-free is another added bonus.
Sip Herbals
Did you really think I'd forget to include something that tastes festive? I couldn't leave this coffee alternative off the list because it combines "antioxidant-rich carob and soothing peppermint" together for a taste that feels like someone's throwing a Christmas party in your mouth.
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Fabio Lovino/HBO
The White Lotus season 3 finale will air on HBO and Max April 6, 2025 at 9 PM EST.
The White Lotus season 3 will have 8 episodes total, and episode 8, "Amor Fati," is premiering this week! Here's the full schedule:
Fabio Lovino/HBO
The White Lotus season 3 cast is one of the best on TV right now! The list includes:
The White Lotus season 3 filmed from February 2024 until August 2024, and filmed in various locations around Thailand, like Bangkok, Phuket, and Ko Samui.
Fabio Lovino/HBO
The final episode of White Lotus season 3 airs this week, April 6, 2025. But filming for the show finished in August of 2024.
Are you excited for The White Lotus season finale? Tag us with all your insane theories on Instagram!
