The Big Freeze: Trying to be cool when New England is downright cold
As a born and raised New Englander, I have survived many a cold winter. But somehow, after a decade of more mild seasons, this one feels particularly brutal. But if we New Englanders do anything, it’s grab a coffee and push through. So far in 2026 I’ve turned 36, hustled up new work, and wrapped a big magazine project. (I’m also working on my novel, which takes place in 17th century New England, and somehow the cold, dark days are lending lots of inspiration.)
And, I’ve celebrated my one-year anniversary off of Instagram. Do I miss it sometimes? Maybe a little. But mostly, I can’t bear to post silly little videos when the world is crumbling, and I like the prerogative to put social media down for stretches when I need to. I’ve become more interested in real-life “influencers,” people in my day to day who I find incredibly chic and cool and put together. I’ve also been reading a ton of books as an escape. A warm sweater, cozy socks, fireplace roaring, a good read…we got this.
Books I’ve read in 2026
All the Colors of the Dark
The Wedding People
Onyx Storm
The Keeper of Lost Causes
The Dutch House
The Midnight Feast
Brooke Shields is Not Allowed to Get Old
Blood Over Bright Haven
Hunting Right Now
I haven’t been doing a ton of shopping this year, as our credit cards recover from the holiday spending. But I did have the opportunity to check out Eco Evolution in Norwalk, and it was my one-day career fever dream come to life: a coffee shop meets vintage store meets environmentally friendly wares all in one.
My dad got me a gift card for Christmas, so I was able to go on a little bit of a shopping spree. I found a vintage thermos for my collection, which I display every year when the holiday decos come down and a (very old) vintage lined flannel jacket. For new things, I also got some beautiful soap, a candle, and dryer balls. And it goes without saying, a chai latte. Highly recommend checking this place out in SoNo.
Since I don’t think my closet can hold one more sweater, I’m shifting my eyes toward spring. So far, here’s what’s on my thrift-list:
Track pants
Rugby shirt
Tricot knits
Peasant dresses
Quirky loafers
Wearing Right Now
I’ve never been happier for the investment I made in the Aritzia Super Puff last year. It is the warmest, coziest, and best wear-with-everything coat. Hubby also fulfilled my wish for the Frye Campus boots for Christmas, and they are an instant outfit maker with sweater dresses, under wide-legged jeans, or over leggings. Of course, with the feet of snow that won’t seem to leave, my Sorels and Bean Boots have been working overtime. Comfy cotton turtlenecks under thrifted 100% wool sweaters or vintage crew necks have been keeping me warm through long days in my exposed brick co-working space.
I tried to grow out my hair, but Emily in Paris got the best of me and I cut it all off again last week (twice, it’s a long story). I feel like a cool girl again, paired with my new Old Navy balaclavas (on sale for $5). I was influenced by my girlfriend to buy one and I’m obsessed — practicality meets cool accessory is hard to come by.
I’ve also been on a health kick (sorry for the new year, new me cliché) and decided to upgrade my athletic wear. My kids also really enjoy playing in the gym daycare so it’s been motivating me to go quite regularly. Since most of us don’t let go of our leggings until they’re thoroughly stretched out, athleisure is the one category I buy new. I love Old Navy’s lounge pants, and Crz yoga has some great bra tops and leggings. Hubby got me the On running sneakers for my birthday and I’m obsessed.
Writing Right Now
Wrapped another issue of Earnshaw’s Kids
Wrote the cover story for the CTC&G January issue
Reminisced about 2016