- Aunt Jemima will never, ever reach true maple glory.

- Mounties are in fact, very studly.

- Nothing will ever match the greatness of a Hab.

I am jacqsays and I hail from the great country of Canada!

... well, sort of.

Granted, I was born in "America's hat", but I have lived the large majority of my life in Florida. Consequently, I am not used to the weather Jacksonville is currently dishing us. In fact, I scraped a layer of ice from my windshield Saturday night. Really? ... Is this real life?

Now it may just be my roots, but when I get really cold, I put on my thickest jacket and atrocious UGG boots and head out to a watering hole. Come on, jacqsays will never steer you wrong in your effervescent efforts to hit the town, especially here in Jacksonville!

O'Brothers Irish Pub. Yes, this is a complete sentence because, in short, it makes my life complete. You know how we Canadians love to sit down to a bowl of mac and cheese and a Molson before the puck drops? Well O'Brothers Irish Pub in 5-Points tops it [but don't tell my dad's side of the family or they'll flip over such a preposterous statement]. Try out my last meal on earth: Murphy's Mac and Cheese and a [few] Snakesbite[s]. Picture this glory: Bubbling hot cheddar and swiss macaroni made with Murphy's Stout, chunky bacon and topped with oven roasted tomatoes. Add the sweet concoction of Woodchuck Cider and Guinness and you have a very happy and slightly portlier me. When it warms up, play a game of corn hole on the front patio. Heaven.

Not feeling hearty Irish food? Have no fear and head over next door to Mossfire Grill. Why do I love Mossfire, you ask? Oh, let me count the ways. 1) Tequila bar. After a close run in during my sophomore year at Florida/Georgia [long story], I vowed never to drink the "devil's porridge" ever again, but, every once in a while I break said vow. Mossfire's worth it. Home to Jacksonville's only tequila bar, Mossfire Grill is a definite way to warm you up on the coldest of nights. If you're hungry, my suggestion is the Tortilla Crusted Goat Cheese appetizer. Delicioso! In a booth or at the bar, there is always a place for some Southwest sizzle. [+2 points for alliteration]

For a searing sensation [+2] of warmth and comfort despite obvious conditions, check out a Jax Beach staple, Cruiser's Grill. I personally love looking at all of the crazy locals who always sport typical beach go-er fashion regardless of the weather. Wet suits? Are you kidding me? Plus, it's only at Cruiser's will you get the Spicy Fried Catfish Sandwich with chipotle mayonnaise, guaranteed to keep you toasty. And how can I forget their mean selection of cheeseburgers and fries!? Try and find another burger joint to top this one, whilst making you feel like you're in a summer cook-out oasis; I dare you! I mean, it's a 2-time consecutive "Best Burger" winner by Folio Weekly! Top it off with a cold brew and I say you a good ole' American classic!

So, Jax - no matter your international tastes, celebrate all the ways the city of Jacksonville can warm you up and make your belly happy!