Why I love a cozy Lifestyle

What does the word cozy mean to you?

To me, the word cozy conjures up visions of hot drinks, a warm blanket, and a roaring fire, among other things. As an author, I have gravitated toward writing cozy mysteries and clean, heartfelt romance. I have realized that I find those genres cozy (even if the word cozy wasn't in the genre name cozy mystery).

The genres are light-hearted, serious but not too deep, meaningful, but also warm and inviting like a warm cup of coffee or cocoa.

Now obviously, I can't sit on my warm and cozy couch all day reading and being cozy, but it's less about a setting and more about a feeling. I can find "cozy" in many places.

I thought I would list my top 10 things that evoke a cozy feeling for me. It's also a list of things that make me happy. No great coincidence that they are one and the same.

1. The coffee shop with it's fragrant smells (and of course the coffee itself)
2. A walk with a friend
3. Cuddling with the dogs
4. Reading a book
5. Having a meaningful conversation
6. Window shopping
7. A nap
8. The colors pink, gray, and white
9. A piece of dark chocolate
10. Fuzzy blankets

What makes your cozy list?