Mugs up. If you’re searching for somewhere to fill your cup today for National Coffee Day, consider these coffee shop superlatives, all found in our guide to 20+ cafes:
Oldest: Mitchell’s Coffee House, open since 1998
Newest: Foxtail Coffee Co., now open by Prospect Lake Wire
Highest-rated: Hillcrest Coffee, with 4.8 stars on Yelp
Editor’s pick: Amonie Jo’s, for the cute decor and Creole coffee
With a contemporary style, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an infinity pool, this sophisticated Winter Haven estate is so sleek, we could see James Bond calling it home. Not to mention, it’s privately gated + the property next door is protected for conservation, so your classified missions won’t be foiled by nosy neighbors.
Wellness
OG Memberships are available at The Well Society — but there are only 100 spots. While an opening date is still TBA for the wellness hub specializing in chiropractic, acupuncture, and Pilates, you can book a session at Moodie Studios for a taste of what’s to come.
Kids
Run, run Rudolph. Registration for the Aerospace Center for Excellence’s North Pole Express is now open, but time slots are already filling up quickly. Reserve a time on Dec. 12 or 13 to board a “flight” to the North Pole with hot cocoa and cookies.
Eat
The newest dessert on Hakucho’s menu covers all the flavor bases with earthy matcha, salty pistachio, bold whiskey, and sweet buttercream. The matcha olive oil cake bar, created by Bang Bang Bakehouse, is a permanent addition to the menu. Try it after dinner or treat yourself during happy hour tomorrow.
List
Order up. Peter Pan Diner in Fort Lauderdale is the most iconic diner in Florida, according to Reader’s Digest. You’ll have to drive ~214 miles to get its famous chicken souvlaki, but we have plenty of exciting new restaurants to try right here in Lakeland.
The Word
Zavacephale rinpoche. That’s the name researchers are giving to a dinosaur species recently discovered in Mongolia. Scientists hope to uncover more about the species’ behavior, history, and uniquely domed heads. Speaking of domes — expand yours by reading up on Polk County’s prehistoric residents. (NBC)
Home
If cooler temps (and hot coffee) have you ready to get creative and start a project or two, you’re not alone. Whether you want to go big and increase your home’s value or just spruce things up before the holidays, it’s a great time to get started. Inspo this way.*
Finance
This versatile card has quickly become a favorite for many. With no annual fee, 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2026, and up to 5% cash back on everyday purchases, it’s easy to see why it stands out.Explore the perks.*
Featured Deal
This is your last call to take advantage of our early bird deal + get 20% off your business’s spot in our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide. Use code EARLYBIRD20 before it expires on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
Jobs of the Week
Business is booming at Lakeside Village — get in on the action with these open positions:
If you’re a big fan of wood paneling — and floors, and walls, and ceilings — we have found the home for you. 6836 Pinetree Lane E. was featured by 51 Summers on Instagram, which highlights homes around the country with “cool and unusual” architecture. We can see why this one made the cut.
The 3-bedroom home was built in 1977, and 51 Summers described it as a “cool cube” due to its square layout. We’re loving the wraparound porch and bright red kitchen sink, but we also can’t get enough of these Instagram comments:
“Wouldn’t change a thing, not even the wood paneling in the bathroom”
“I think I built that in Minecraft once.”
“If you look up ‘potential’ in the dictionary, it populates a photo of this home”
It may not be for everyone, but if it’s for you, tap below to explore this listing by Yolonda Turner of 54 Realty.
Something to make your morning coffee ritual last longer this cool-weather season: a temperature control mug, rated 4.7 stars and currently 10% off. This smart mug lets you control your beverage’s temperature down to the degree, with auto shut-off technology after two hours.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
I recently asked you if you prefer historic homes or new construction, and the answers were almost evenly split. I’m with the historic homies, but cast your vote to help me with an upcoming real estate story.
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