SO WHAT if the winters are painfully cold here in upstate NY (of course that’s a relative statement). The gorgeousness of a holiday season makes up for it. From the Saratoga streetlights adorned in garland, to the giant wreaths hung on our breathtaking historic buildings. It’s really easy to spend time (and money) on Broadway at Christmastime. And this season, I found yet another excuse to do some damage at our local shops. Last week I headed downtown to pick out some of the very things that get me through our winters here in Saratoga Springs, and to create a Winter Survival Giveaway Package! Bursting with amazing things that I personally love, and that I can’t wait to share with a lucky winner!

WHAT GOODIES ARE INCLUDED?

What are those things that get me through our long winters, you ask? Well first, there’s my Saratoga Tea and Honey Masala Chai. I’m not a PSL fan, but this spicy warmness is the perfect treat in those colder months, especially when steeped with my super cute infuser, and sweetened with my Saratoga Springs Wildflower Honey and dipper. (Check out last year’s SCOOP about sipping teas for better health!) I love to light my TOGA Heritage Fireside candle… what I feel is THE PERFECT scent (and teacher gift) for the holidays season! Warmth is a priority when walking the boys to school, so I always throw something toasty on my head and hands, like this super soft and chunky hat and mitten set from Lucia. Lucia always has a great selection of hats and mittens around this time! Or, in the super cold winter months, I’ll add an extra layer, like this adorbs Zebra Echo Scarf from Lola Saratoga! Lola always has such a great selection of super luxurious warm weather essentials! (More goodies below!)

I thank my KRU Doom Cup Blend Coffee for helping me to get out of bed on those cold, dark days of winter. We blow through these one-pound bags on a weekly basis (In addition to daily visits of course. But I swear I don’t have a caffeine problem.) I love me a cute pair of slippers… even if no one but the boys see them! Like these super cozy Leopard Slippers from Silverwood. Often used alongside Silverwood’s AMAZINGLY scented Earl Grey Bath Bombs. I’ve included three of my favorite basic varieties of Saratoga Chocolate Co. Chocolate Bars… what I consider the perfect way to end a comfort meal! And although the boys and I are working our way up to a 1000-piece puzzle, we are obsessed with the whimsical Galison puzzles. This fun “Hairdos Throughout History” puzzle from Northshire Books is one of my faves, found in Northshire’s extensive puzzle corner!

HOW TO ENTER

It doesn’t get any easier. Click the button above, type in your name and email, and you’ve entered the contest! The contest will close at midnight on December 23rd, 2021, and the winner will be emailed on December 24th!

Happy Holidays, and GOOD LUCK, from The SCOOP Saratoga!

XO, Ally