I always love that time of year when you start bringing out your softest throws and pillows and getting your home ready for winter. I love putting these 10 Essentials posts together and this has to be the most enjoyable to date. It took me about a week to get every shot just so, I hope you love it!

1. Cozy Throw

A soft throw is obviously a must. Whether curling up to watch a movie or reading your favorite book, a warm and cozy blanket makes winter that much more bearable. I just picked up this dove gray one from West Elm (on SALE for $48!)

2. Cranberry Oatmeal

I wish I were more of a breakfast person. I am more of the “don't talk to me until have had my first cup of coffee type". But I have been loving this recipe as of late. My favorite way to make it is with Scottish oatmeal.

DIRECTIONS

In a saucepan, make a quick cranberry sauce using 1/3 cup of cranberries, 2 Tablespoons water, and a 1 teaspoon sugar.

Make oatmeal according to instructions. Use milk, water, or dairy alternative.

Spoon cranberry sauce onto oatmeal, sprinkle with cinnamon, and toasted pecans (optional.)

3. Chunky Knits

Time to bring out the warm layers. I love getting into my softest knits. I wear them day and night, so investing in a couple of good pieces makes such a difference. I always love some in ivory, cream, and winter white.

4. Seasonal Arrangements

By now, I think you can see that I am just a little flower obsessed. I had this idea for a Winter bloom bouquet since last year and I am so happy with how it turned out. Here are my tried and true tips :

· Pick Seasonal Flowers. Think Eucalyptus (Silver Dollar or Seeded), Amaryllis, Juniper, Hypernicum Berries, Christmas Greens (Pine and Fir varieties) and Paper Whites.

· Arrange according to heights. I always start with taller greens, then the blooms, and then accent flowers.

· Stick to a color palette. For Winter bouquets, I love all white and green arrangements, a pop of red can be festive, but also an all pale pink bouquet can be soft and elegant.

· Always trim stems. It allows the absorption of water to keep blooms fresher longer.

5. Hot Apple Cider

What is better than a warm drink? Maybe a chai tea or a hot chocolate is your favorite, but mulling some hot apple cider over the stove with a cinnamon stick and cloves is an unexpected crowd pleaser. Swirl in a spoonful of caramel for a sweet twist.

6. Home Essentials

All summer I never lit a candle inside, but a change of the season, and I want candles lit everywhere. I have some old favorites and some new. A Cire Trudon candle is the Veuve Clicquot of candles, my favorite scents are Abdel and Trianon. I adore Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir and Pine & Eucalyptus, as well as Nest Fragrances in Birchwood Pine and Holiday. Other home essentials include a faux fur rug, velvet pillows, and a notebook for jotting thoughts and ideas.

7. Cashmere Socks

An essential luxury.

8. Books

Whether it is a new novel or a pile of your favorite design books, a stack of books makes a home and a Sunday afternoon a little more enjoyable.

9. Updated Skincare Routine

Heated rooms and icey conditions make for dryer skin. Facial oils become essential to help replenish and balance hydration. They also act as a protective barrier against the elements. These are my favorites:

10. Silk Pajamas

A pajama set is a must. I will be wearing this pale pink silk set from Sleepy Jones nonstop. Isn't it divine? A perfect present for a special someone. {It also comes in navy, black, gray, and cream.}

10 Essentials for Cold Weather