Even the summer lovers have to admit it by now—fall is here. Does it still feel like July where I live? Yes, it does.
Is my giant 12’ Jack Skellington up in the yard? Also yes.
No matter how resistant the temps are to the season’s change, one thing is certainly true: It’s October, and that means it’s time.
Time for apples and pumpkins and falling leaves and cozy sweaters (Inside, at least) and bonfires and crisper evenings and hay rides and spooky movies and shorter days.
So today I’m sharing my hopes for this fall, an abbreviated version. Each year, I fall prey to the same trap: I create this impossibly long wish list of fall activities, hardly check off a single one, then feel a bit disappointed as we shift into winter.
Apple cider and mulled wine. I love my apple cider mimosas, and I’m obsessed with Trader Joes’ Witches Brew, which is surprisingly perfect for a bottled mulled wine
Watch a football game. We have the games on all day long on Saturdays and Sundays in my house, and I miss that background noise so much when the season is over. For bonus points, throw a game on in the background to make your chili or bake.
Make s’mores. Go for a viral savory s’mores, using Brie bites or chunks of smoked gouda, traditional, or with a gourmet flair (Like these, these, or these).
Visit your favorite iconic fall spot. For me, that’s the pumpkin patch down the road with a cute little pick-your-own patch, tiny hay ride, and little photo spots. We go every year, even though it’s usually roasting, and have a great time. If you’re more of a corn maze girlie, hit that instead. Pick just one of your favorite classic fall spots, though, and make a day of it.
Really enjoy the changing leaves. We’re super lucky to live near some forested conservation land and have a trail through a wooded patch on the way to school. A few times each fall, I make a point of taking a leisurely walk purely to enjoy the gorgeous palette. I love to pick up a couple for myself and use them as decoration or in crafts.
Read a cozy book. One that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Does it have to be warm, fuzzy, and like, happy? No. If murder mysteries make you feel that deep inner coziness, go forth, my little weirdo! I’ll be reading disturbing stories about fairies and stuff.
Make a bonfire. Warm your hands, enjoy the glow, roast marshmallows! Double fall duty. Invite your friends, burn wood, or break out the Solo stove. It all counts here.
Bake something cozy. But the caveat here is to enjoy the baking. No rushed pumpkin bread here, just cozy tunes, fragrant spices, and delicious smells wafting from the oven. Just as important as the journey here, though? The destination. Eat what you made indulgently.
Make a big pot of chili. Is there anything cozier than a big pot of chili simmering away on the stove during a crisp afternoon? For me, throw on a football game in the background, and it’s peak fall. I just need this in my being.
This year? We’re keeping it simple, manageable. Nothing radical, just my absolute core must-haves for a beautiful fall.
Does much of it revolve around food? Well… have you met me? You probably haven’t, actually, but you should be able to tell I love my food.
What’s on your fall bucket list this year? What is your absolute non-negotiable? What am I missing as a core activity?