City Editor Amelia here. Wednesday, Feb. 19 marks my one-year anniversary as a City Editor with LALtoday — time flies when you're having fun, doesn't it? To celebrate the occasion, I'm sharing my top 12 favorite things in and about the city.

These are in no particular order.

12. Sabrina's Delicacies

From the friendly staff to the cozy atmosphere, this Cleveland Heights spot will never not make me smile — my new go-to order is the Torres sandwich with a side of chips + a cannoli dip to take home for dessert.

11. Silver Moon Drive-In

I love the nostalgic feel of this spot, and its history is just as rich. My pro tip: Get cozy while you watch by lining your trunk or seats with pillows and blankets.

10. The shopping scene

From big-name stores to local bizzes, I can always find just what I need right here in town. Lately, I've loved browsing Scout & Tag, East of These, and Amelia Paige Boutique (I'm just a girl after all).

9. The parks

Whether you're looking for playgrounds, a quiet retreat, or a mix of both, Lakeland has more than 70 (yes, 70) parks to choose from — I personally love walking the Three Parks Trail through Peterson Park.

Lakeland and coffee go together like peanut butter and jelly. | Photo by LAltoday

8. The coffee culture

It's no secret that on most days, you'll find me at one of Lakeland's coffee shops. For me, nothing beats an iced caramel macchiato with extra ice from the Lake Morton Black & Brew — which I may or may not be sipping on as I type this article.

7. Libraries + bookstores galore

Having grown up in a town where our library was a single room, I will never not be amazed by our libraries here in Lakeland and all the amazing resources they offer. Not to mention our incredible local bookstores + book clubs where you can meet fellow readers.

6. The lakes

Would any list about Lakeland be complete if we didn't call out one of the most iconic parts of our town? One of my favorite things has been diving in (figuratively, not literally) to the history behind some of these local bodies of water.

5. Cozy Oaks

This hidden gem has quickly become a go-to breakfast spot for me thanks to its classic diner vibes and extensive menu — so much so, that my parents almost always request a stop there every time they come down for a visit. Do yourself a favor and don't skip the homemade biscuits.

Go into this year with a bang, Lakeland. | Photo by LALtoday

4. Red, White, & Kaboom

Lakeland has lots of events to look forward to year-round, but if you ask me, nothing beats the fun vibes and fireworks at our annual Fourth of July extravaganza — even if it means braving that mid-summer heat.

3. Born & Bread Bakehouse

Need I say more? My go-to pastry is the vanilla bean chocolate chip croissant, and you can't go wrong with the Benton's Bacon Breakfast Sandwich when you want something savory.

2. Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market

This market has been a staple in my Lakeland routine since I first came to town as a Southeastern University student (go Fire). You'll find me here any given Saturday grabbing my produce for the week with an aforementioned coffee in hand.

1. Salted caramel espresso martini from Smith's American Tavern

To date, this might be my favorite drink I've ever had in Lakeland. The sweet, salty, and creamy notes from the salted caramel syrup and house-made salted caramel cold foam makes it the perfect nightcap after a long day of exploring.