Autumn Vibes

When it comes to seasonal changes and you start to feel it in the air, it also inspires me to change out the decor in my home, rethink my wardrobe and even start planning recipes for my family. The fall is my favorite time of the year to hit the reset button and reinvigorate the senses. You may walk into the grocery store or your local pharmacy and start to see the shelves swapped out with vibrant colored items and decor. It feels like each year these changes come earlier and earlier but it’s probably my sense of awareness that has changed. I don’t dread these changes, but welcome them and invite them into my home. It’s something to look forward to in life’s otherwise monotonous routines. Don’t get me wrong, I feel some of the stress and sense of urgency of all the things I’d like/ need to do as the holidays approach, but it also causes me to switch gears and reset the energy. It’s all in the perspective and I chose to embrace the subtle reminders. 

Some of my most cherished traditions come with the changing season and once longer days turn into short spurts that ease by right under your nose. Unfortunately, I don’t live in a town that enjoys all four seasons, but I can tune into the slight changes taking place with every passing day. I have fond memories of childhood walking outside in the brisk air and observing the changing colors in the landscape. It is glorious to arrive at that first shiver and know you will be needing to cover in layers should you want to spend any time outdoors. Yes! It’s time for sweaters, warm lattes and boots. In our family, we have quite a few fall birthdays and although the weather begins to change, outside dining is still such a thrill. There is something about a meal outside with a dimly lit candle and the light breezes that evokes the feelings of being transported to another place.

These changes can also translate to home decor. When the leaves turn brown and drop, some of the first things I do in my home are put up autumn wreaths (both inside and out), change out the faux floral vases to something orange, yellow or brown and swap out pillows for ones with texture and earthiness. There are so many home stores that capture the seasons and allow for a simple change that warms the inside out. A cozy, knitted throw on the couch, your favorite spices and herbs brewing in the pot or adding your favorite tapers to the dining table. Trips to the grocery that once captured all the fresh fruit and greens are now transformed into creamy robust soups and sauces. I flip through my cookbooks and peruse the pages of all the one-pot recipes and hearty dishes that I can use in my Instant Pot. I love picking out recipes that simmer away for hours and the smells waft into all areas of our home. I truly love the fall and everything it offers.

So don’t be surprised to see more recipes and family favorites posted to this blog. I hope to share some of my favorites and maybe you too can make them your own family traditions. I can’t think about all the magic of autumn without the comforts of my grandparent’s house. My maternal grandmother was a great cook and I think about her dishes at this time of year, it transports me back to sitting in her kitchen, swiveling on her barstool and waiting for her to serve up some amazing food while we chatted away. Our memories are really so closely connected to the people who share them and every time I have a persimmon cookie, a cup of Campbell’s cream of celery soup or even a slice of lightly toasted cinnamon bread I think of my granny’s giving nature and how she took care of everyone that surrounded her. So, yes, autumn vibes give me pause and I remember all the incredible gifts that have been bestowed on me. I hope everyone leans into the seasonal changes and instead of feeling the pressures of the upcoming holidays and all the things that ensue but instead, embraces a sense of appreciation and gratitude.