
Spring is approaching, but the winter mornings are still very dark when I go to make my coffee. Last week I had a little idea: I moved a cordless lamp from the porch into my coffee cabinet. Now I simply tap the lamp before I start making coffee. That small change has made my cabinet — and my morning routine — feel so much cozier.
The cordless lamps I use include two interchangeable shades and come in several finishes and patterns, including charming striped options. They’re unbreakable and waterproof, so they’re perfect for outdoor use on a porch as well as inside the house. I have two sets: one with white and rattan shades and another with a red-and-white striped shade that I plan to use outside in summer.

Another small way I made the cabinet feel warmer is by adding flameless votive candles set inside a pretty teacup. I put the candle on a timer so it’s gently flickering by the time I open the cabinet in the morning. Little touches like this add a lot of comfort to an otherwise ordinary routine.


These cordless lamps let you choose between cooler or warmer light tones — just tap the top to turn the lamp on and to switch the color temperature. The image above shows the cooler-toned light in use.

Here’s to cozier winter mornings and the small comforts that help you remember spring is on the way.
On a related note, I’ve been enjoying a new espresso machine and have gathered some of my favorite coffee supplies to keep mornings simple and delicious.
* Sources for the items shown are available upon request *