Welcoming Autumn

There’s something almost magical about the arrival of autumn. The air turns crisp, the days grow shorter, and the world begins to shift into a palette of warm, golden hues. For me, autumn is a season of both change and comfort.

There is something special about the sky on a clear fall day. It’s as if the blue deepens, becoming richer and more vibrant. That brighter shade of blue feels like nature’s way of saying, “Slow down. Take it in.”

Fall also brings football season. I love cheering for my favorite team and gathering with family on game day. It's an extra special experience when the man of the house and I can visit a stadium and catch a game in person.

Crisp fall mornings are another favorite. There’s something refreshing about stepping outside and feeling that cool air on your face. It’s the perfect excuse to pull out cozy sweaters, sip something warm, and savor the slower pace of the season

Of course, the changing leaves are the stars of the season. Watching the trees transform into reds, oranges, and yellows never gets old. It’s a reminder that change can be beautiful, and that nature always knows how to put on a show.

And let’s not forget the unofficial mascot of autumn: pumpkin everything. From lattes and pies to candles and decor, pumpkins are everywhere, and I'm here for all of it! They are cute, comforting, festive, and delicious—what more could you ask for?

So here’s to autumn—the season of vibrant skies, football cheers, colorful leaves, brisk mornings, and all things pumpkin. May it bring you joy, peace, and plenty of moments to savor.

Welcome back, fall. You’ve been missed!🍂

Letting Go

 

Shopping My Closet: Transitional Fall Style

As soon as the temperatures start to dip and the first signs of fall appear, I find myself craving a wardrobe refresh. I’m dreaming of cozy sweaters and stylish boots—but the weather here isn’t quite ready for all that yet. So in the meantime, I’m shopping my closet for outfits that work for this in-between season.

Look One: Casual Comfort in Overalls

These overalls have been a staple in my wardrobe since last fall. They’re incredibly comfortable—like wearing pajamas—but they look much more polished. And let’s be honest, the compliments I get when I wear them don’t hurt either! For warm early fall days, I’m pairing them with a cheerful yellow scoop-neck tee and layering on beaded necklaces, including a faux pearl pendant for a touch of elegance.

Look Two: Light Layers with a Pop of Turquoise

I love the classic combo of jeans, a tee, and a cardigan for fall. But since it’s still warm out, I’m adapting the look with straight-leg jeans, a turquoise tank, and a short-sleeved knit cardigan. I kept the jewelry simple with my favorite bee pendant necklace featuring a toggle clasp—just enough detail without feeling heavy.

Look Three: Summer Dresses, Reimagined

Don’t pack away those summer dresses just yet! A sundress layered with a denim jacket is perfect for days that start warm and end with a chill. I finish the look with a cute crossbody bag and a turquoise beaded necklace. It’s my go-to outfit for weekend outings when the weather can’t quite make up its mind.

You may have noticed that I paired each of these looks with my Tieks in Sunset Stripe. The colorful stripes are perfect for both summer and fall, and they go with just about everything. Tieks’ flexible design, cushioned back and insole, and thick non-skid sole keep my midlife knees and feet happy—no matter where the day takes me.

Tieks in Sunset Stripe

As we ease into fall, I’m finding joy in rediscovering pieces I already own and styling them in fresh, transitional ways. Each of these outfits blends comfort with personality—and my Tieks in Sunset Stripe are the perfect finishing touch. Their vibrant colors complement both summer and fall palettes, and the comfort they offer keeps me moving with ease and confidence. Whether I’m running errands or heading out for a weekend adventure, Tieks help me step into the season in style.

What's your favorite summer-to-fall transitional look?

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary pair of Tieks by Gavrieli in exchange for this post. https://tieks.com/reviews

Cozy September

There’s something undeniably comforting about the arrival of September.

September wraps the world in a gentle kind of coziness that’s hard to resist. The mornings greet us with a crispness that invites sweaters and warm mugs. It’s the season of soft blankets, simmering soups, and the comforting scent of pumpkin spice and apple cider drifting through the air. 

The pace slows just enough to let us savor the small pleasures—reading by the window, baking something sweet, or simply watching the leaves begin their quiet transformation.

What's your favorite thing about September? 

Sunday Inspiration: Autumn

Welcome Autumn!

 It's here!  It's finally here!  After what has seemed to be the longest, morst stress inducing Spring and Summer in recent history - we have at long last come to the first day of Autumn.  I know some of you are out there lamenting the end of Summer.  But that's not me!  Fall is always my favorite time of the year.  And that goes extra for this year.

I have been decorating for the season.  Putting out all my pumpkins, autumn leaves and scented candles. I'm especially pleased with the Autumn look for my coffee center in the kitchen/dining room.  

The Man of the House and I took advantage of the last weekend of Summer to drive up to Paint Rock. The rock sits just outside of Hot Springs, North Carolina where Paint Creek meets the French Broad River.  It's a beautiful spot.  And the area holds special meaning for us, since in his genealogical research the Man of the House found evidence that his family lived in this area in the late 1800 and early 1900s.  

It was a perfect day for getting outdoors.  Cool, but not chilly.  A nice mix of sun and clouds.  And the area was not crowded at all, so we didn't have to worry about social distancing or wearing our masks or anything.  It was lovely to get out and feel completely normal for a few hours. 

Even little Max enjoyed the adventure.  I was nervous how he would do around the river, but he was quite curious about exploring.  That has me looking forward to do some light hiking and nature walks as the leaves begin to change colors for the fall. 

Do you have plans for this Autumn?  What are your favorite fall activities?

Random August Thoughts

There comes a day in every August when - despite the fact that we're still in one of the hottest months of Summer - there's the slightest promise of autumn's impending arrival. 

It can be difficult to put your finger on exactly what it is that brings to mind that fall is coming - but nonetheless, it's definitely there. 

It may not be an especially chilly day even though there's a touch of crispness to the air.  Just cool enough to remind us that more comfortable days are coming.  

It will still be a couple of months before Autumn colors are in their full beauty.  But, the earliest budding trees are already starting to see some leaves turn yellow and begin to fall,  A preview of what will come.  

Those days are a pleasant break from the weary heat of summer.  You start dreaming of sweaters, boots, and pumpkin spice. Or maybe for you it's bonfires and apple cider.   

You may find yourself with a strong desire to begin putting out your autumn decor and wondering if it's still too soon.  (my answer: it's not!)

This August has also been a bit damp so far.  At least here where I live.  There's an old wives tale which says that "For every fog in August, there will be a snowfall." If there's any truth to that - we are in for a wild ride this year.  (Considering how 2020 has been so far, that wouldn't be such a huge surprise)

So, perhaps we should enjoy these last days of summer as we anticipate the coming Autumn.  And we'll deal with whatever may lay beyond that as it comes.

Sunday Inspiration: October

Sunday Inspiration: Autumn

Since we welcomed Autumn yesterday, this seemed especially appropriate:

This and That and a Few Other Things

Ever feel like you have a LOT to say, then when the time comes to actually say it...  crickets... ? 

No?  Just me?  C'mon now.  I know I can't be the only one.  Well, whether I'm one in a million - or not - that's me recently.  I always think I have so very much to write about until I sit down at the computer with a blank post screen in front of me.

We've been doing a hike pretty much every Saturday this month.  And I'm loving it!

Weekend before last we went up to Max Patch.  The Male Offspring even went with us!  If you've never been, let me just warn you - it is quite a climb up to the top!  And this ol' asthmatic gal was huffing and puffing most of the way.  Be prepared.  I can assure you, however - that it is WELL worth the work!  It is amazingly beautiful!  They said we would have 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains.  We were not disappointed!  Words simply do not do it justice.

Afterward, because it was the Man of the House's birthday weekend - we went to listen to some live music, eat dinner and relax for a while at Sierra Nevada Brewing.  (hint: try the Hop and Sour!)Followed by dessert at Baked Pie Company.

This past weekend the Man of the House and I stayed a little closer to home.  We started at the Hard Times Loop Trail head, walked down the NC Arboretum property, down Bent Creek Trail and back.  That's a nice easy hike if you're looking for one in the area.

In other news...

We got a new fridge.  The old one was about 24 years old.  I know!!  Can you believe it?  But it just kept chugging along.  Recently it started freezing a lot of items in the fridge area, so when we saw a good deal on one in the Lowe's clearance area we snapped it up.

I made a cute little no-sew valance for my dining room using Pioneer Woman napkins I picked up at the Walmart.

And my mantel is finally FALLified  (sure, that's a word)

I think  that's about all I have to say for now.  Although I'll probably think of about a dozen more things once I shut down the computer. 

How's life been treating you so far this month?

Sunday Inspiration: A New Season

20 Joyful Fall Activities

I know fall doesn't officially start until Friday, but I am all kinds of ready for the season!  This is my favorite time of year, y'all!  To celebrate, I've put together a list of some of my favorite autumn activities - which I plan to enjoy to the fullest.  Which will you be participating in this year?

20 Joy-filled Autumn Activities

1. Make pumpkin muffins
2. Read outside
3. Go for a hike
4. Enjoy a pumpkin spice latte
5. Make a big pot of chili
6. Watch a football game 
7. Paint your nails a fall color
8. Decorate the front door for fall
9. Eat candy corn 
10. Burn cinnamon apple and/or pumpkin spice candles and wax melts 
11. Go for a scenic drive to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage
12. Take pictures of the fall colors
13. Watch a scary movie
14. Wear a comfy sweater and the perfect pair of boots
15. Decorate the mantle with autumn touches
16. Drink warm spiced apple cider
17. Walk through crunchy fallen leaves
18. Made a delicious soup in the crockpot
19. Snuggle under a blanket with a cup of tea and read a book on a chilly afternoon
20. Celebrate my birthday in style

(Later in the season, I'll be sharing an update post of how I experienced many of these fun fall activities)

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Autumn

As I mentioned in my post from Monday, I have been doing a little Autumn decorating around the house.  Fall is my favorite season.  I think because it's such a cozy season. And I love adding all the comforting accents of rich reds, oranges, and browns.  Along with the spicy pumpkin and apple scents in my wax burners.

I thought today I could give y'all a brief tour...

This has been my go to porch decoration for the past few years.  Now, to be completely honest I haven't actually created it yet this year; but it should be happening by the end of the weekend.  I also have a little wire basket I plan to fill with some little gourds.

In the entry way you'll find a cute wooden pumpkin and some candles on the small cabinet where keys are (supposed to be) kept.  And these pillows I picked up last year in the dollar spot at Target rest on the storage bench.

The mantle is pumpkin and candle central!  Lots of fun pumpkin finds over the years from Michael's.  My new yummy smelling jar candle from Kirklands.  And the Give Thanks box I picked up the night my youngest sister and I were thrown out of a Hobby Lobby.  (not really - we were asked politely to leave because we didn't realize they had closed 10 minutes ago.  But we like to make it sound dramatic and exciting.  LOL)

The kitchen table scape displays a simple runner (this year's Target dollar spot find), a red wooden tray from Kirklands, my napkin holder, a set of adorable  pumpkin salt and pepper shakers, a pretty thrift store find pitcher with some artificial flowers and berries, and a pair of candles.

There you have it.  Simple, but it all makes me happy.

Weekend Wrap-up

The first weekend of Autumn came and went in the barest blink of an eye.  At least the calendar says it was the first weekend of fall.  Someone forgot to tell the weather, which apparently thought it was still August and gave us temperatures near 90.  Ugh!  Despite the toasty temps, it was a beautiful and fun weekend.

Friday night was all about homemade pizza and hanging out with the family. Nice and quiet and relaxing!

Saturday, the Man of the House and I ran some errands early in the afternoon, then headed to Biltmore for the evening.  We started with a wine tasting and picked up a couple of new bottles for the house. Then enjoyed a stroll through the barn areas.

We enjoyed a delicious dinner of roasted chicken, herbed potatoes, and blistered tomatoes at the Village Social (located in the hotel at Antler Hill Village)

I wish I had taken a picture of the seafood fondue we enjoyed as an appetizer, because it was YUM!!

Right now, on Fridy and Saturday evening there is live  music on the village green.  So, after dinner we settled into our camping chairs and enjoyed the sounds of "Flashback", the sunset, and each others company for the rest of the evening.

Sunday funday was amazingly lazy.  At least for me.  I did manage to package up two orders for the shop to ship out today.  And The Man of the House got in a round of golf in the morning.  Sunday afternoon was all about snacks and football.  (If you know us at all, you're thinking.. "of course").  Sadly, the Panthers lost.  Booooo... Hiss! Things just kind of fell apart in the second half.

A big pot of chili and the female offspring making gluten free cookie sandwiches made a nice finishing touch to the weekend.

I woke up today with a "Gettin' Things Done" attitude.  And a little sinus congestion, which is nothing new for me and my allergies.  Usually after being up for a little while the congestion improves.  Not today.  It continues to get worse, and is now accompanied by sneezing, stuffy feeling ears, a sinus headache, and a tickle in my throat.  Trying hard not to let that get me down and keep pecking away at my to do list.

Although I am going to attempt to convince the grandbaby that we should take a nap this afternoon.

How was your weekend?

A Spirit of Gratitude: September 22

Wooohooo!!  It's Fall, y'all!!  (Or, if you're reading this before 10:21am - it's almost Fall, y'all!)  And that's plenty to be thankful for right there.  But, as if it's not - there's always so much more...

I Am Thankful for:

The first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season

Starting the fall decorating

Custom order requests

The Panthers first win of the season

Looking at Halloween costumes with the grand baby

Making muffins

Cooler nights

Discovering a miniseries about Queen Victoria
A quiet evening

Random Friday

Look around the ol' interwebs a while and you'll see all kinds of folks singing the praises of fall and proclaiming it their favorite season.  Myself included.  Why is that?  I think I've finally figured it out.

Everything about fall is comforting.  That's it.  It's the cozy season. The clothes... warm and cozy sweaters.  The colors.... warm reds, yellows, oranges, browns and rusts.  The foods.... comfort foods - pumpkin, apple pie, cinnamon, soups and stews.  Hot chocolate, pumpkin lattes, warm tea.  It all just says "cozy".  No wonder so many of us are drawn to this particular season!

Autumn

Know what else I find cozy?  Foggy mornings.  I don't know what it is but I enjoy a good foggy start to the day.  The thicker the fog - the better.  Unless of course I have to go out and drive in it.  But even then to a certain point, I'm enjoying the mist.

foggy morning

Here are some other random thoughts I've had this week.  For either your reading amusement - Or to scare you away from this blog forever because you are terrified by how my brain works.  Your call.

I realized this week that it is rapidly becoming decision time in regards to my hair.  Chop it off and keep it shorter - or bear through this stage, stockpile ponytail bands, bobby pins, and hair clips and let it grow out.  Decisions, decisions...

It's also past time for a color change for the little piggies.  And a cuticle trim.  Geez, I am really letting myself go over here! Anywho...  got any suggestions for a fun fall-ish type pedi color?  They're dark blue right now.

I'm keeping pretty busy making hats these days.  Everyone is getting in those orders for Halloween costumes I suppose.   But it's busy in a good way.  Not staying up all night busy.  More like steady.  Steady with a side of busy.

I finished season 2 of Downton Abbey this week.  And this entire season has just wreaked me!  It has apparently also wreaked the Man of the House, but in an entirely different way.  He avoids watching it like the plague, hiding out in the other room anytime I put it on to catch another episode.

I guess that about covers it.  For now. What's been on your mind this week?

You can find me connecting at these Blog Hops and Link Ups

New For Autumn

Y'all are probably getting sick and tired of hearing me ramble on about autumn.  I know...
But please bear with me for at least one more post.  I've got plans for this season.  Big plans!  And I just wanted to take a few minutes to share them.  Maybe you could return the favor and share some of your Fall to-dos in the comments?

• Decorate mantel for autumn (already did it! Ha!!)
• Weekend getaway with the Man of the House
• Finish remodeling makeover in the master bedroom
• Take the family on a long hike to see the colorful fall leaves
• Make lots and lots of pumpkin muffins
• Make pumpkin spice syrup for coffee
• Make homemade vanilla creamer
• Carve jack o' lanterns with the family
• Try some new soup, stew, and chili recipes in the  crock pot
•  Plan a winter family getaway
• Create some new scarves and other items for my Etsy shop
• Start crafting some Christmas presents
• Get a great picture for Christmas cards

You can find me connecting at these Blog Hops and Link Ups

Juana Mickels: Wednesday's Prayer Girls

WholeHearted Home: Wholehearted Wednesdays Linkup
We Are THAT Family: Works For Me Wednesdays
Woman to Woman: Word-filled Wednesday
A Little R & R: A Little R&R Wednesdays
Joy Dare Blog: Capture Your Journey Link Up 
My Daily Walk in His Grace: Winsome Wednesday 
So Much at Home Linkup Party 
Holley Gerth: Coffee for Your Heart 
Adorned From Above: Wednesday Link Party
Mom's Morning Coffee: Coffee & Conversation 

Wrapping Up Summer and Putting A Bow On It

So long, summer!  Fall has arrived!  And I am one happy camper! 

You may recall, I had some big plans for summer.  As you look at the list below - you'll see I didn't exactly rule my to-do list.  And I am perfectly ok with that!  It was summer, after all.  I'm sure I'll do better on my fall list.

• Finish up redecorating projects in office/guest room and the male offspring's room
•  Hike!
• Get rid of another 10 pounds
• Take part in my first 5k
• Make new decoration for front door
• Create the gallery wall in entry
• Pick wildflowers
• Make homemade ice cream
• Complete Adult Summer Reading program at library
• Finish sewing pillow covers for living room throw pillows
• Spend a day outside relaxing and reading

You can find me connecting at these Blog Hops and Link Ups

Three Things: I Like About Autumn

Autumn - it's almost official!!  Today is the last day of summer - so if you're a summer person, soak up every last minute of today.  I, however, am all about the Fall.  And I think the weather agrees with me, because it is bright, sunny, and cool here this morning.  Fall is my very favorite season (with spring following in a close second place).  

I can't imagine what's NOT to like about Autumn.  The leaves changing color!  Football season! The Man of the House and I both have Autumn birthdays!  But here are three of my favorite things about it:

1) Cooler Weather: I don't tolerate heat well.  And anything over 80 degrees is just TOO HOT.  I love the cooler nights and comfortable days that come with Autumn.  If I could find somewhere that the climate was like this all year - I would seriously consider moving!  Also, the cooler weather brings us to ...

2) Boots: I love wearing my boots.  Riding boots, high boots, ankle boots.  I think I own about 5 pairs right now.  I wear them with jeans.  With skirts.  With dresses.  I wear them pretty much all the time once the weather cools.  (I'm wearing them today!) Flip flops are all well and good - but give me my boots!

3) Anything Pumpkin!: Yep, I'm one of those crazy pumpkin people!  Carving them into jack o lanterns.  Pumpkin coffee.  Pumpkin cheese cake.  Pumpkin muffins.  Pumpkin pie.  Pumpkin bread.  Those little pumpkin candies they put out with the candy corn. I love pumpkin.  Funny thing is... it only tastes right between Labor Day and Thanksgiving.  Any other time of year, it's just... meh. 

You can find me connecting at these Blog Hops and Link Ups

Life of Meg: Monday Mingle
The Chicken Chick: Clever Chicks Blog Hop
A Proverbs 31 Wife: Living Proverbs 31
A Life in Balance: Motivation Monday
The WellSpring: Playdates with God 
Tell Me A Story: True Stories
The Beauty In His Grip: Sharing His Beauty 
Salt & Light: Beautiful Ashes