Winter storms are no joke, y’all. With hours spent holed up in your apartment and cabin fever taking its toll, those snow days can make you (and the kiddos) a bit stir crazy. If you’re lucky enough to have the day off with your little ones, keep yourselves busy with a few fun activities and snow day DIYs. Whether you’re looking to get outside and enjoy the all that powdery fun or are all ready to snuggle up and sip on some hot cocoa, these DIY projects will keep you all cozy, creative and busy. Scroll through to see our favorite snow day activities.
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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.
Scroll on for 13 must-have cold weather necessities to help you make it through the bitter cold.
Amazon
Senllen Fleece Balaclava
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
Waffle Knit Heated Blanket
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 Cuffed Beanie
Carhartt beanies are unmatched when it comes to the comfiness and warmth they bring.
Amazon
Dreo Space Heater
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
Wander Agio Warm Plaid Scarf
In addition to a reliable beanie, a scarf is a winter must. We recommend you opt for a big, soft one like this!
Amazon
Ihuan Waterproof Ski Gloves
Same thing goes for good gloves – shop for ones that are waterproof, snow-proof, and expertly insulated.
Amazon
Yeti Rambler Stackable Insulated Mug
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
HotHands Hand Warmers
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
Snow Brush + Scraper
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
AlpsWolf Rechargeable Flashlight + Lantern
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
Duracell Coppertop AA Batteries
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
First Aid Kit
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
Portable Power Station
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.
Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more winter fashion picks + essentials!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Dakota Johnson Must Choose Between Chris Evans & Pedro Pascal In New ‘Materialists’ Trailer
Mar 18, 2025
Summer rom-coms are so back! A24 confirmed on March 4 that Celine Song's Materialists, starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, is coming to theaters this June and I cannot contain my excitement. The new movie follows a matchmaker (Dakota) who finds herself torn between two romantic prospects. If that's too dramatic for you, girl, I'd be happy to take your place.
Here's the latest update on Materialists starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.
Watch the 'Materialists' trailer now.
I watched the Materialists trailer four times before writing this because I just couldn't stop soaking it in — and I didn't want to miss a single detail. Of course, we get the story of Lucy (Dakota Johnson) a matchmaker, who finds herself torn between the perfect man (Pedro Pascal) and her ex (Chris Evans), who's still dreaming of "wrinkles and children that look like you," a line that will be playing in my head on REPEAT because OH MY GOSH.
But just like director Celine Song's acclaimed Past Lives, every single detail of the movie translates the emotion in the story. Dakota Johnson has an effervescent grace and masters the screen every time we see her, while Pedro and Chris don't even have to open their mouths to break my heart; their eyes say it all. The color grade and film quality are soft and romantic, which totally matches the delicate situation this trio finds themselves in; both men fall for Lucy and it looks like our matchmaker has to figure out how to avoid breaking anyone's heart — including her own. "Delicate" by Taylor Swift, anyone?
But overall, the movie teases that sometimes, there are no bad decisions, just really hard ones. And if I got all that from the Materialists trailer, I can't wait to see the full movie...even if it's going to be totally devastating. And I have a feeling I'm going to be seeing it more than once.
Is Materialists out yet?
Materialists will premiere in theaters June 13, 2025. After Past Lives became THE summer movie in 2023 (and absolutely wrecked my roommates), I know Materialists is going to be the perfect June watch.
What is the plot of Materialists?
The movie follows Dakota Johnson's character, a matchmaker in New York City who falls for the perfect man, but can't seem to let go of her ex. Given the fact the first poster for the movie includes "save the date" and looks like a wedding cake, I'm wondering if we'll see all three characters cross paths at a wedding...
What has the cast said about the movie?
When I asked Dakota Johnson about working with Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans, she teased how much she enjoyed working with them. "They're both big idiots and I love them," she told Brit + Co exclusively at her Daddio premiere.
Where was Materialists filmed?
Materialists was filmed around New York City, which means the movie's going to have so much life and energy in every single shot. Plus Dakota's sundresses are totally giving Brooklyn gal — and I'm dreaming of prancing around the city in a dress as soon as the weather warms up!
Are you as excited for Materialists as I am? Let us know your favorite rom-coms in the comments and check out the latest news on Madelyn Cline's new romance movie for more!
I'd consider myself a hot chocolate connoisseur. I've sipped rich and decadent drinks at Colonial Williamsburg, whipped up a homemade recipe for Christmas parties, and sampled my fair share of instant hot cocoa packets. So I was shocked when the Whole Foods Hot Chocolate ended up being one of my favorite cocoa options of all time — for only $2 a cup! The hot chocolate offers a smoother, richer taste than other instant cocoas I've tried, and it really offers a bang for your buck.
Keep reading for everything you need to know about the delicious Whole Foods Hot Chocolate.
The delicious Whole Foods hot chocolate is only $2 a cup.
Whole Foods
The Whole Foods hot chocolate (officially named Organic Milk Chocolate Flavor Mix Hot Cocoa Mix. Fancy!) is from the 365 by Whole Foods Market brand, and features 10 packets in a single box. Not only does that mean it's $2 a cup, but it's also easier than ever to whip up a late night beverage. My favorite thing ever is curling up with hot cocoa and a book or TV show in bed!
Instead of a pot or saucepan, all you need is a mug and a microwave. Just heat up your water or milk and mix a packet in! I'm pretty bougie when it comes to hot chocolate, and use equal parts water and soy milk, then add a splash of eggnog. Trust me, it makes the cocoa even richer and more flavorful than it was before.
The hot cocoa packets include organic cane sugar, organic nonfat dry milk, organic cocoa powder, and some sea salt among other ingredients.
Amazon
You can enter your zip code to find the Whole Foods hot chocolate near you, but you can also order it on Amazon for a quick delivery. And if you're not a fan of the packets, opt for a 12 oz container instead!
One Amazon reviewer says this product is "such a treat," and that it "dissolves without any issue," which is a huge challenge when talking about instant cocoa. "You can control how much of the flavor you want which we like since you just scoop it into your cup from the container," they continue. "Good size for the price. Container seems to last a while too."
"I'm a REALLY PICKY hot chocolate lover," another Amazon review says. "This is good stuff. It blends perfectly and tastes rich. I blend it 50/50 with 365 coffee and a hot cup of milk. Some reviews say it's expensive compared to Swiss Miss. I just checked and this is $6.79 for 12 servings - Swiss Miss Simply Cocoa's cheapest prices is $7.33 for 8 servings. This is a good buy."
"I like it because I can adjust the amount that I use, for myself I use less than is suggested because it is so rich and chocolatey," a third review says. "Price is on point. And product is consistent."
And if you mix it into your morning cup of coffee? Well, that's a mocha for way cheaper than you can find at Starbucks ;).
Check out the $4 Trader Joe’s Holiday Cookies With An Insane Cult Following so you have something to dip in your Whole Foods Hot Chocolate!
Alright, let's get grounded, loves! ✨ This week's tarot reading kicks off by tuning us back into Mother Earth, especially with those seasonal vibes in full swing. Think of it: as the world around us shifts, so are we, darlings! It's all about recognizing that deep-rooted connection – we're part of this planet, after all, and underestimating that link is a no-go. The big takeaway? Change is coming, whether you're waving hello or hiding under the covers. But trust us, leaning into it is where the magic happens and things flow so much easier. We're talking subtle "micro tweaks" in your everyday, prompting a little soul-searching about what this new season means for you. What are you ready to switch up? What's staying? Just remember, it's a gradual glow-up, not an overnight makeover. Tapping into that holistic connection with the Earth? That's your secret sauce for ease, purpose, and all-around good vibes. It's all about feeling connected, finding your purpose, soaking up the joy, and bringing it all together. You've got this — so let's get into your tarot reading!
Scroll to see your weekly tarot reading for March 17-23!
Page of Cups:
Okay, first up in our cosmic download is the dreamy Page of Cups! This card is all about tapping into your inner confidence and those sweet, sweet feelings. Think of it as your permission slip to chase what your heart desires – as long as you're not stepping on anyone's toes (including your own!), and honestly, who cares what anyone else thinks? The adorable fish in the cup? That's the universe dropping unexpected opportunities right in your lap when you're just being your authentic self and following your joy. Yes, effort and intention are still part of the equation, but aligning with what lights you up can seriously unlock some magical joy, abundance, freedom, and peace vibes. This week, let's make it a mission to pump up that passion and confidence within ourselves so we're living a life that truly feels like us.
The Moon:
The next card is the mystical Moon! This one's all about those shifting phases, telling us that the change we've been craving? It's practically here this week! But heads up, babes, it's gonna require a healthy dose of self-trust and building up that inner confidence to actually create and welcome it. The Moon also shines a light on that little flutter of fear that can pop up with the unknown – totally normal! But the cosmos is reminding us that change is already happening all around, just like the moon's cycles and the Earth's seasons. To really ride this wave, we gotta get cozy with being uncomfortable. Remember that power mantra: "nothing changes if nothing changes"? It's your reminder that you've got the power to shape your own path, and that means embracing the new. The reading also nudges us to get super clear on who we are and what we truly want, because floating around without direction? Not the vibe. Implementing changes, whether they're big leaps or tiny tweaks, that align with our most confident and brave selves – guided by those amazing feelings, that spark of excitement, pure joy, and that inner soul voice? That's the secret sauce for unlocking some serious ease.
The Hanged Man:
Okay, last but definitely not least in our reading is the intriguing Hanged Man! Now, this card is all about that "in-between" space – you know, that transitional period where you might feel a little paused or even stuck, even though things are moving behind the scenes. But don't fret, darling! This card is actually encouraging you to embrace that pause, like a cosmic red light giving you a chance to check your internal GPS before hitting the gas again. Think of it as a moment for contentment, practicing patience, and even a chance to tweak your direction if needed. The Hanged Man is your gentle reminder that big changes take time, so don't stress if you're not seeing instant results. This phase is all about trusting the universe's timing and understanding that you're in a transition, moving from point A to point B. So, even if it feels a little slow, know that momentum is building! Use this time to your advantage – optimize, check in with your soul self, and follow those little breadcrumbs of joy, excitement, and curiosity. You're exactly where you need to be right now!
Watch Your Full Weekly Tarot Reading Here!
Come back next week for another reading! Until next time! ✨
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The best romance books know how to transport us to worlds where unexpected love and second chances exist. They also find a way to make "cheesy" meet-cutes and dialogue feel like the adult version of our favorite Disney stories. Think Cinderella meets Bridget Jones' Diary.
We already know it's a given that BookTok creators are always looking for their next fix in this genre, so we've got 15 new reads they'll be ready to devour. The plus side of this is that you get first dibs on the picks you think your bookshelf's eager to make space for!
Scroll for the best new romance books that are poised to become instant favorites!
Amazon
Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage (April 15, 2025)
Camille Ashwood's a planner who thought getting married would solve the problems she's faced in Meadowlark, Wyoming. But she faces heartbreak on the day of her wedding and it leaves her stranded. Desperate to find somewhere to stay, the only prospect she finds is an idyllic home that comes with the last person she wants to see.
The neighbor she'll be living next to is none other than Dusty Tucker, a former flame she's rather not cross paths with. All she can think about is how he broke her heart, but Dusty's determined to prove he's changed.
Somewhere along the lines, familiar feelings begin to show which leaves these two lovebirds with two choices: confront their pasts or walk away from each other for good.
Amazon
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)
The only thing Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson have in common are being handpicked by the elusive Margaret Ives for a special project. The ultimate prize is securing the right to pen a biography that's sure to be on everyone's lips. Alice can't ignore how unsteady Hayden's gaze makes her, but she's convinced she has more to lose than he does. Also, Margaret isn't telling her story in order so it leaves both writers confused about how to best proceed with their work.
By the end of it, someone will have possible fallen in love or lost out on an opportunity of a lifetime.
Amazon
Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)
Despite Ofosua Addo and Cole Drake's spicy meet-cute, they're romance is all but forbidden for two reasons. One, Ofosua's an heiress whose burdened by tradition and she's supposed to be getting married to someone else. But all of this changes when the lavish wedding meant for her becomes an absolute nightmare.
Between her broken heart and soul-searching, Ofosua and Cole collide once again. Only this time, things are different which may or may not come with a lack of support that could threaten to destroy everything they feel.
Amazon
The Last Sunrise by Anna Todd (May 6, 2025)
Oria Pera's world is shaken in the best way when she and her mom have to temporarily relocate to Majorca for the summer. For her, it's the start of something promising even as she dealings with the health that's kept her under her mother's watchful eyes.
Against her mother's wishes, she ventures to the beach and becomes acquainted with one of the sexiest men she's ever met. Julián has a way of reminding Ry of everything she doesn't know, but that doesn't stop her for falling for him.
Somewhere along the lines, Ry will discover what it means to truly live for the first time in life.
Amazon
Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan (May 13, 2025)
Hendrix Barry is the "rich auntie" Gen Z talks about online. She's a successful entrepreneur who has the love of her friends and family. Plus, she's enjoying a kid-free existence. But she still has problems that involve being a caretaker for one of her parents. This leaves no room for frivolous love as far as she's concerned.
But tech mogul Maverick Bell's making her second-guess her rules because he's sexy and has "do not pass go" written all over him. He's precisely the man that makes Hendrix swoon and it's every reason she feels she should stay away from him...except he doesn't want to leave her alone.
Amazon
What Will People Think by Sara Hamdan (May 20, 2025)
Mia Almas splits her time between working in the media and telling jokes at clubs in NYC. She's afraid to live life on her terms, but she knows how she feels when she's on stage. When she and her boss' love affair heats up, so does Mia's jokes that shine a glaring spotlight on what she's been doing.
Afraid of what her Palestinian-American family will think, Mia works overtime to "fix" things. However, this opens the door to a hidden truth her family's been trying to keep buried.
Amazon
It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan (May 27, 2025)
Jane Jackson's gone from the awkward teen on everyone's most-watched TV series to setting her sights on becoming one of Hollywood's well-respected executives. With her faux bravado intact, her potential idea catches the attention of the right people. But the catch is she'll have to talk to Jack Quinlan after making a huge promise about securing him for her movie. Never mind the fact she's lost contact with him.
Between cinematograper Dan Finnegan's taunting and the impending doom she's feeling about reaching out to Jack, Jane may find love for someone unexpected is housed under her nerves.
Amazon
Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady (June 3, 2025)
Josie Klein and Ryan Lawson both manage bookstores, but they've never had a reason to have a conversation. This suddenly changes when a new owner acquires both locations and decides on a merger deal that brings their opposing book worlds together. The catch is that only one of them will be allowed to stay based on their performance.
Josie and Ryan immediately clash on everything except the burning passion simmering between them. Turning to a chat room, they find comfort in anonymous people and it's hilarious they're unaware they're confiding in each other.
In the midst of a clear divide offline, Josie and Ryan will find love "in a hopeless place."
Amazon
Writing Mr. Rightby Alina Khawaja (June 10, 2025)
Ziya Khan knows she doesn't want to be a secretary for the rest of her life, so she burns the midnight oil to create the universes she dreams about. Unfortunately, one too many passive-aggressive letters passing on her writing causes her to give up.
The result of this is a sexy man named Aashiq who seeks to help her take control of her life and pick up her pen again. It's all fun and games until Ziya starts falling in love while realizing Aashiq's fading into obscurity the more things start going her way.
Can she somehow keep both her creative streak and the man who's seemingly materialized out of thin air?
Amazon
Love, Coffee & Revolution by Stefanie Leder (June 10, 2025)
Dee Blum's a senior in college, but she doesn't feel enthusiastic about her future. All she wants to do is leave her current path behind and is surprised when she secures a role putting together eco-tours in Costa Rica. Promptly abandoning her studies, she eagerly starts her activist journey.
But she begins to experience fear when she realizes she's never experienced life like this or held the attention of two sexy men. Adrián provides a dash of adventure, but doesn't align with her politically. On the other hand, Matías has travelled the world and is able to hold her interests in more ways than one.
Then there's the work Dee is doing. In a heartbreaking reveal, she learns exploitation is taking place and puts her life on the line to uncover how far-reaching it is. Between this and romance, she's being pulled in different directions that will have lasting effects no matter what happens.
Amazon
Work Nights by Erica Peplin (June 17, 2025)
Jane Grabowski works a typical 9-5 that leaves her feeling uninspired. She may live in the city "where dreams are made of," but she feels like another drone save for the sexy intern that makes her days brighter. There's one issue: Madeline's apprehensive about getting close to Jane.
With a little but of perseverance, Jane finds ways to help Madeline let down her guard. However, Jane's roommate is sure there's someone better for her which is how Jane meets the ready and willing Addy.
Though she knows being involved with Addy won't involve a game of chase, Jane's still drawn to Madeline and begins making decisions that will end with someone's heart being broken.
Amazon
Total Dreamboat by Katelyn Doyle (June 24, 2025)
Hope Lanover's life has turned into a hot mess, but that's nothing a trip planned by her best friend can't solve. Too bad Hope could care less for the cruise they're going on. Ironically, chef Felix Segrave is also thrown for a loop when his parents believe he and his sister deserve a vacation too.
Initially feeling tortured, Hope and Felix are smitten as soon as they spot each other. They know there's chemistry between them, but old hangups explode in their face and leave them left with no choice but to form an alliance that'll save them.
Who knows, they may even fall in love.
Amazon
How Freaking Romantic by Emily Harding (July 1, 2025)
Beatrice Nilsson's reasons to be eternally pissed off have piled up, but she finds ways to channel her frustrations. Everyone in her life can count of her to be a great source of support, but it's obvious she doesn't shower herself with the same attention. Nevertheless, going to task as her best friend experiences a terrible divorce pushes that thought aside.
This is precisely how she finds herself in Nathan Asher's office. Though he's clearly the enemy by being the lawyer of her bestie's ex-husband, Beatrice can't find the willpower to dislike him forever. Every time she tries, she finds herself daydreaming about what falling in love would feel like. But that's also the problem. Is she going to put herself first this time or remain the side character while everyone else gets the life they want?
Amazon
How to Sell a Romanceby Alexa Martin (July 15, 2025)
Kindergarten teacher Emerson Pierce is so desparate for a boost of income that she turns to selling beauty via Petunia Lemon. It sounds like a pyramid scheme disaster waiting to happen, but she'll do anything to survive. Sadly for her, investigative reporter Lucas Miller is on a mission to bring the company down. His mission's personal because it led to his abrupt divorce, but a chance meeting with Emerson clouds his judgement.
In a strange twist, the two discover Lucas' daughter is one of Emerson's students which brings any passion they felt to a halt. But Petunia Lemon's sneaky and it's up to them to uncover its harmful practices...if they can stay focused and out of love.
Amazon
Moderation by Elaine Castillo (August 5, 2025)
Girlie Delmundo moderates content for a living and her precision's helped land her a promotion. Next up is the world of virtual reality where she has the potential to drive forward a new way people communicate. She may alone more often than not, but she's finally experiencing financial stability.
The only thing she doesn't have control over is William Cheung's past and the way her heart beats for him. He may be a Chief Produce Officer, but she's about to find out how one's title doesn't indicate where their future will take them.
While you wait for your pre-order books to arrive, revisit the dark romance novels we can't stop reading!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.