Have you ever wondered what the proper name for the season is... is it Autumn, or Fall? Is there a proper name? (and do we care? hmmm... yes, just so I can stop wondering) Apparently, “Autumn” is a French term—autumne—that entered everyday use in the 1700s? Before that, the English word “Fall” had already taken hold in the 1600s, drawn from the phrase “fall of the leaf.” And before that, this time of year was once called the “Harvest Season”—a time for gathering crops and giving thanks. Hence, why the full moon closest to the autumn equinox is known as the Harvest Moon,
And now we know.🤓
For me, fall is a wild-haired sister returned after a long absence. She whispers of transformation, yet hearing her voice again is still familiar. In fact, autumn begins on September 1 and lasts until November 30. The days grow shorter as nature winds down in preparation for the stillness of winter.
Let’s delve into various inspirations that come with fall, from crafting stunning charcuterie boards to cultivating a relaxing ambiance and embracing mindful practices. I also love exploring practical tips for kitchen organization, wine pairings, and upcoming fall sales to help maximize this enchanting season.
There’s a unique beauty in fall, a season steeped in history and tradition. It invites us to slow down, be present, and connect more deeply with ourselves, our homes, and the people we cherish. The shift in routines (work, school, or, for us, homeschool routines) is another reminder that life is full of cycles and transformations.
It’s a reminder that change, though inevitable, is also something to celebrate. It presents an opportunity to begin the same shift in our homes and hearts inward. And so we bid farewell-for-now to the wild and big sun-soaked days of summer, into a space of warmth, connection, and mindfulness.
So, while the world shifts into the deep, rich tones of fall—golden leaves, crisp air, and the undeniable warmth of cozy sweaters—how can we truly honor the rhythm of this season and make the most of its gifts, both practical and soulful?
Embracing the Cozy and Inviting
Fall is an invitation to create a haven of warmth and comfort. Think beyond the visual—this is about crafting a space where you feel genuinely at ease, a place that slows you down in all the right ways. When you walk in your front door, what do you feel?
I'm not talking about Pinterest-perfect decor or chasing trends. Making your home a retreat is about creating a space that feels like a breath of fresh air at the end of the day—creating a home and a life that feels inviting, intentional, and meaningful. Fall is the perfect time to make that sanctuary. [👋🏼Hello, fellow nesters... time to do those inside projects!]
We all need spaces that allow us to pause, breathe, and reset—especially as the days grow shorter. (Side note! One of my favorite things is to notice when my sunset timers come on—during the summer, they never come on, but now they’re turning on at 5:30! It’s such a tangible thing that makes me excited for change.)
You can create a space inviting relaxation and reflection—a home that welcomes you in, fully present and at peace—with simple swaps like incorporating cozy textures, softer lighting, and nature-inspired decor.
A Culinary Adventure
Fall has a way of making everything taste better, doesn’t it? I don’t know what it is....whether it’s the comforting steam from a bowl of soup or the decadence of a warm dessert, but I love it! The kitchen is always the heart of our home, but in autumn, it seems the scents get more robust and the smells more savory and juicy.🤌🏼This is your chance to dive into seasonal ingredients and remember that mealtime is an act of love—both for yourself and those around you.
I like to think of the story of Persephone: she was a woman who, in Greek mythology, was taken to the underworld by Hades to be his queen. Her mother, Demeter, goddess of the harvest, was devastated—sad, angry, frustrated—and caused all the crops to die until Persephone returned in the spring. And like us, turning away from the garden until rebirth next spring, fall is a time of turning inward to reset, deep think, and celebrate the bounty of this year’s harvest. It’s a season that celebrates both loss and hope, reminding us of the importance of gathering and nourishing those we hold dear.
Fall is a season of abundance, offering a bounty of ingredients for culinary exploration. From hearty soups, flavorful charcuterie boards, butter boards, wine tastings, and decadent desserts, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Mindfulness and Well-being
Transformation and tradition—two words that seem at odds with one another yet are so intertwined. Fall teaches us that change is inevitable, but it is through honoring our traditions that we find stability and meaning amidst it.
The shedding of leaves is both an ending and a beginning, much like the rituals and routines we repeat year after year, grounding us even as we evolve. In this season, transformation becomes more than just a process of change; it can be a return to what truly matters.
I always feel encouraged to reflect and to practice mindfulness—as if the fall winds bring in the introspection. And after last night's wind storm, I have to say... sometimes it’s not the quiet, gradual change all the poets spout. Sometimes it feels like that crazy sister’s barged in the front door, grabbed you by the shoulders and shook you until your perfectly coifed hair (which took time, btw!) is wild like hers. Who are we? Did we go down a rabbit hole of a new habit, embrace something new to the exclusion of the old? Do we need to come up for air? Deep down in your wild—who are you?
Practical Tips for a Seamless Fall
And now that we’ve all gone wild... let’s get practical for a minute.
We can’t all run around dancing and pondering all the time (as much as I’d like to). We have families to feed and practices to attend. Just as transformation and tradition go hand-in-hand, so do wild and practical. We look for ways to ensure our home is as ready for fall as we are. Small preparations will not only help us feel more organized but will also make room for more time spent enjoying the season.
Preparing your home for fall isn’t just about keeping things running smoothly; it’s about creating space for those moments of joy and reflection the season offers. By getting a few key tasks in order now, we can free up more time to savor the beauty and warmth of autumn instead of stressing over the little things. The more organized we are, the more space we have to embrace fall’s magic.
Fall Flash Sales: Your Opportunity to Save
As the leaves change color, so do our shopping habits. Fall is a season of sales and discounts, offering the perfect opportunity to update your wardrobe or home decor. Here is your public service announcement: Don't miss out on exclusive fall flash sales! You’ll feel better once all the shopping is done, and your wallet (and hubby?) will be grateful. We’re always looking for the best deals on items that would make an impact and not just fill space, and pieces that are well-built and look great, but cost half the price of any trendy design piece... we’ll keep you in the loop!
At its core, fall is about reflection, renewal, and gratitude. It's a time to give thanks for the abundance in our lives—whether that’s the people we hold dear, the food we share, or the simple pleasure of a quiet evening by the fire. Let’s embrace this season not just as a time of transition, but as an opportunity to be more present, more connected, and more at peace with where we are.
For us outdoorsy folk, fall is also shoulder season—and the perfect time to take one last backpacking trip before winter camping hits. I find the best place to reconnect with what makes me feel "rich" is to get out in nature. It's like, without the noise, I can really see what's important. Plus the trails are quieter, the air crisper, and the changing leaves turn even the simplest hikes into magical experiences.
So whether it's outside, or inside with your candle and cozy blanket, lets embrace fall with an open heart. This our your season to slow down and savor every bit of beauty it brings.
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