snippets // preparing for autumn

autumn is undoubtably my favorite time of year.  it has always been since i was a little girl.  i look forward to the air in autumn from the time we are graced with the very first snow fall.  the crispness of it all makes me happy.  from the crinkle of brown leaves beneath our booties, to the warm blankets in mustardy colors, i adore it all.

one of my favorite things to do as a homemaker is prepare our space as a season starts to change.  i look forward to the ritual, no matter the season, and welcome the differences each one brings.  there is just something so calming in putting on new bed linens after they have been washed and smell of lavender to suit the change in weather.  autumn in the midwest calls for a few more feather pillows and softer, heavier bedding, especially if you like to sleep with the windows open like we do. 

outings to gather seasonal goods during this time of seasonal transition is always a delight.  stella and i have had fun searching for pinecones and yellow leafs at the park, along with tiny pumpkins and festive decor from around town.  we've stocked our pantry with many seasonal items, such as pumpkin spiced pancakes and squash ravioli, and canned quite a bit too in preparation for fall stews.  there is a bit of sage drying from our open shelving and apple cider is abundant.  autumn is here.     

then there is the thrill in lighting a new candle that evokes the smell of a new season.  i have been burning a pine scented candle for the past few days and it has made afternoons while stella naps so peaceful for me.  when i inhale that woodsy scent, i am transported to a happy place that begs me to drink cider and curl up with a quilt.    

my time between toddler crafting, potty training attempts, and various outings with stella bear have been burried in new cookbooks.  i have been making little notes in my food journal, scribbling nonchalantly here and there on the subject of comforting recipes and warm, one-pot meals to make my family as the cooler air settles in.  many of them fall into the realm of soups and stews, and most all of them call for carrots and onions and potatoes.  you should see our freezer.  it is fully stocked and ready for a weekend shut in cuddling a tiny baby boy.   

as summer slips away and autumn takes over, you can count on us embracing it. 

1. on our dining table.
2. colorful corn on a window sill.
3. a lit candle while making dinner.
4. festive branches.
5. seasonal inspiration from one of my favorite authors.
6. spiced cider while stella naps.
7. new, softer, cozier bed linens. they are a dream.
8. warm things waiting to be worn.
9. vegetables for butternut squash and beef stew.
10. books waiting to be read on a crisp afternoon.
11. a view from out our living room window on a sixty degree day.
12. pumpkin spiced pancake mix from trader joes.
13. a pine scented candle.
14. pinecones from the park.
15. scarves in the making.