Hello hello, welcome to Episode 67 of Life on the Brink!
We're well into September now, so it's finally time to transition into autumn. I am so very excited about this year's cozy season, and have been curating a collection of books, along with plans for autumnal parties and celebrations, for a few weeks now. This episode is perfect to get you into the autumnal spirit, wherever you are!
I go into more detail in the episode audio, but I’ve listed every recommendation I have down below. Now grab a cozy cup of tea and let’s get into it!
What’s in my teacup? Trader Joes’ Harvest Blend herbal tea
BOOKS: MY TBR FOR THIS AUTUMN
-The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman
-The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
-A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas
-The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
-The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein
-Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
-Literally any and all by Agatha Christie
Of course, there are many more books that are perfect at this time of year, so check out Episode 38 for even more reading suggestions.
ON THE SCREEN: T.V. AND FILM
-House of the Dragon. Just happy to be back in Westeros, it’s everything I need this fall.
-Gilmore Girls. I’ve slowly been making my way through this show, and it always feels the best in the chill weather. Hopefully I finish before spring!
-Yuru Camp/Laid Back Camp. I’ve been looking forward to checking out this cozy and atmospheric anime.
A couple films coming out! I’m prioritizing these as they look really good:
-See How They Run on September 17th
-Amsterdam on October 7th
PARTIES/CELEBRATIONS
Oktoberfest: My sister and I have made a tradition of celebrating German cuisine (it started as a way to watch The Sound of Music, then last year it was Snow White), and I always look forward to it. Basically a Bavarian movie night, with beer and music and pretzels.
LOTR Sundays: My family always gathers for dinner on Sunday nights at my parents’ house, and recently my mom has agreed to watch the full Lord of the Rings series (extended edition), so this fall we’re going to split each film in half and watch it over the course of 6 Sundays. It’s something to look forward to, and it’s such a good autumnal series.
Harry Potter: Obviously, this is the time to head back to Hogwarts. Maybe get creative with your movie nights (butterbeer anyone?), whether it’s a marathon or a weekly occurrence, think up ways to celebrate this beloved classic. (I’ve finally finished crocheting my Ravenclaw scarf, so you KNOW I’m gonna be wearing it all the time.)
Clue: I’ve had this dream for a few years now of playing a game of Clue in costume and in character. I think this is the fall where it’s actually going to happen! I’m thinking spooky old music, a signature cocktail, and I’m even looking into casting my cousin as a Butler character to DM the whole night. I’ll update if it actually happens, but wouldn’t this be so cool!?
Produce: Finally, let’s not forget about FIGS, along with winter squashes, kale, apples, brussels sprouts, sage and thyme, and all the pumpkiny goodness coming our way. It’s time to celebrate the magic of fall produce!
With that, my friend, I wish you a beautiful start to the fall season. I’m taking a little break until September 29th as I’m headed to Banff, Alberta to hike in the mountains (!!!!), but I’ll be back soon with more fall content. Thank you so much, happy autumn!
This Week’s Little Joy: Last weekend I went with Josh and his family to Westmoreland, Virginia. His family is restoring a historic property there, and we stayed in a smaller house that they built a few years ago. Saturday night I made dinner for me and Josh, along with my brother-in-law and his girlfriend, and it was delicious. I love this recipe for Poulet à la Moutarde (Chicken with mustard) by David Lebovitz. I served it with roasted potatoes and fresh green beans, paired with a chilled rosé. Such a good meal for a wonderful weekend.
What I’m Listening To: I’ve been listening to “Red Garland’s Piano” quite a bit lately. It’s a piano trio album led by Red Garland, one of my personal favorite jazz pianists, and is oh-so delightful. It’s complex, but not overwhelming, and is perfect for so many occasions. Give it a listen and see!
Have a beautiful week, friends, and I'll be back on the 29th with more fall episodes!