As one year closes and another begins, we take this time to reflect and integrate all we’ve learned over the last twelve months. Or at least… we try! There can be quite a pressure to make and keep New Years’ resolutions, which is why we want to think about how we can make positive change sustainable. So we decided, let’s make it fun!
We’re starting off the year with Dry January. What exactly is Dry January? It’s a chance to start a new year on a sober foot – basically, you commit to abstaining from alcohol for the whole month. More and more people are re-evaluating their relationship with alcohol for a variety of reasons. And luckily for all imbibers, there are more creative and tasty non-alcoholic beverages than ever before – many from businesses based right here in Northwest Washington.
1. For hydration, an extra boost of vitamins, and sheer deliciousness, we love a stop at Refresh Juice Co. in Bellingham. Refresh Juice Co. offers fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, wellness shots, and superfood lattes, all in a friendly and welcoming environment.
2. And since it’s the coziest time of the year, what’s better than a hot cup of local tea? Snuggle up and watch the rain fall with an inviting herbal blend from Flying Bird Botanicals. We’re particular fans of their Cedarwood Chai.
3. Let’s keep the cozy times rolling with a good ol’ cup of coffee from beloved local institution Hammerhead Coffee Shop. You can’t go wrong with one of their lattes (though let’s be real, you can’t go wrong with anything they serve up!).
4. Okay, we’re including one more warm beverage because it’s January and we’re all feeling a little cold at this point! Maple Bar is one of our favorite spots to swing by for a hot cuppa coffee or tea – and a donut!
Photo courtesy of Refresh Juice Co.
Photo courtesy of Shrub Farm
5. L&L Libations has brought exquisite drinks and snacks (like their take on the Crunchwrap!) to the Bellingham bar scene. What makes them a special place to celebrate Dry January? Their bartenders are creative geniuses when it comes to making mocktails!
6. If you’re wanting to DIY your mocktails, look no further than the abundance of local shrubs. We love Girl Meets Dirt, located on beautiful Orcas Island. And luckily for us, they’ve developed some delightful mocktail recipes here.
7. Shrub Farm is another favorite local shrub company. Based in Bellingham, they make a variety of shrubs, all based on a vibrant, good-for-your-gut apple cider vinegar base. Check out their Non-Alcoholic recipe page here.
8. Keep the probiotic-rich good times rolling with kombucha! A classic NA option for a reason, we’re obsessed with Kombucha Town’s wide variety of flavors. They have regular kombucha as well as Live Seltzers. The options are truly endless!
9. Leif’s Tea is another local business making festive NA drinks. They make “jun”, which is somewhat of a cousin to kombucha. Instead of being fermented with sugar, however, the tea is fermented with honey. Leif’s Tea has a delectable assortment of flavors, including Elderberry Immunity and Radiant Turmeric.
10. Last but not least, might we recommend incorporating two resolutions into one? If you’re looking to participate in Dry January and reduce your food waste this year, check out our Low-Waste Libations recipes!
Photo courtesy of Leif’s Tea
Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or just looking to switch things up this year, Dry January can be both a fun and powerful way of incorporating new routines and rituals into your daily life.