There is was…the white paper bag on the kitchen counter…the next thing I know my friend Cristin was suggesting I look inside. I had a sneaky suspiscion it contained Lulu’s cupcakes (http://luluboston.com)

…not because I snuck a peak earlier, but because I’ve become familair with the plain-white paper bag and the awesome contents it usually holds (having lived in the North End for three years).

As I peeked over the top of the bag  – I saw it, the Lulu’s cupcake logo on the top of a half-dozen cupcake box. YA! I was excited at the thought of popping open the box and checking out the sure-to-be new flavors inside. So, I popped open the box and noticed something different – some pink frosting looped across the top of the six cupcakes. I squinted, I focused…and read outloud… ‘will you be my bridesmaid?’ – words can’t describe how surprised I was and all the happy thoughts whipping through my head. Oh my god, this is so nice, she is the best, how thoughtful, OF COURSE! (to name a few) – Cristin and I spent a few moments jumping up and down.

Trucking to the North End to pick up yummy desserts and bringing them home is a big deal…going to the North End to get your friend’s favorite dessert and creatively interweaving the request to be part of your big day – simply amazinnnggg. Best cupcakes I ever had. PERIOD.

When it’s cold out…I’d like to reach for a large cup of hot chocolate with mini marshmallows – but my ‘self control’ (ha) usually convinces me that I’m better off not going there. Instead, I’ll often reach for coffee – but after a couple of cups, I don’t always feel good. I get gittery.  Sometimes water just doesn’t cut it and on a cold day I need something warm and something that can mimimize my hunger. Some herbal teas are too flowery, others are too fruity and I feel like I’m drinking watered down juice.

 The other day, I was in Stop & Shop (natural food aisle) and decide to try this Yogi tea called ‘Detox.’ Which promotes healthy liver and kidney function. I thought to myself ‘hmmm, I did have a few drinks last night…I could use some detox.’ I brought a box home for under $5. I love the spicey smell of this tea but it is also slightly sweet. I’ve had this after dinner or in the afternoon and I’ve found that the slight spice curbs my hunger.

I’ve always liked this line of teas – they have a great variety. I love the packaging, the detail they put into ‘what tea is meant for what ailment/need.’ There are even little feel-good quotes on each tea bag tag. I’d highly suggest some Yogi tea – it can be found at Stop & Shop/Whole Foods etc.