Hello hello, and welcome to Episode 72 of Life On the Brink!
This autumn has been full of transition for me, as it might also be for you, but also full of so much beauty and joy. I was anticipating the fall season for weeks beforehand, and now that it’s here I simply want to revel in it.
Now, we all have work and family and different obligations, but every now and then when we get a pocket of time (or, if you’re lucky, a slow weekend) to just unwind and enjoy, this is such a magical time to do so. Today’s episode is filled with ways that I have currently been enjoying this October, or how I plan to celebrate over the final weekend of the month.
I hope to leave you with some new or cozy ideas that you can join me in savoring as we round out one of the most magical times of the year.
What’s in my teacup? Trader Joes' Harvest Blend Herbal Tea
OCTOBER WEEKEND CHECKLIST
-Check out a local farmer’s market or fall festival. This is the time when it seems every weekend is filled with places to go and festivals to stroll through. Find one that appeals to you and check it out! This past weekend I went to my favorite farmer’s market, then enjoyed a chai latte and croissant under the trees. It was heaven.
-Mull some cider. This is liquid comfort! Just add some local or natural apple cider (the kind where “apples” is the only ingredient, if possible) to a pot with a few cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries (if you have them) and sliced oranges. Bring it to a simmer and let those flavors steep for 5 minutes or so. Serve it up hot and enjoy!
*to go to the next level, I wouldn’t say no to a little shot of rum or fireball either.*
-Make something in the crockpot (or order ramen!). In the same vein, nothing is quite so comforting as a soup, chili, or pot roast that cooks slowly on its own. The best part is that you get to smell the upcoming dinner all day long, and it gives such a homey feel to your space.
If your schedule doesn’t allot enough time to cook today, though, I think you can never go wrong with ordering in a hot bowl of ramen or pho and snuggling on the couch.
-Switch over to cold clothes. For those of us that like to feel a little productive. Now is the perfect time to make any wardrobe switches, putting away the sundresses and unearthing warm tights and cardigans. Here in Virginia, it’s still quite mild (and humid, as always), but it’s finally time to make the switch I think. Bonus points if you purge through your summer clothes as you put them away! Trust me, you’ll feel much more refreshed and organized when it’s all done.
-Spruce up a cozy nook in your home. This is a way to add some autumn touch to your home without feeling pressure to go overboard. I think most of us have a chair, couch corner, or other cozy space that we gravitate toward to read, nap, etc. Why not give that space some extra love with a little tidying up, then adding either a warm fall blanket, pillow or ottoman. It’s simply preparing your space to be enjoyed all through the cold months.
-Get outside early to feel the chill. This is an underrated portion of the autumn day, since we mostly focus on the comfort of warming up from the cold. But I think there’s something so special about getting up early and spending just a few minutes outside when it’s still chilly. This could be with a walk, or simply enjoying your tea outdoors. In the States, Daylight Savings doesn’t end until early November, so this weekend will be especially chilly and spooky since the sun comes up late.
-Light a cozy candle. The calming flame in combination with a fall scent is the icing on the cake to a relaxing day at home in October.
-Enjoy a spooky movie or book. This is the last weekend to enjoy those spooky vibes before the Christmas specials begin to unfold. Whether it’s an old classic or something new, enjoy a little relaxation with a spooky book or movie.
-Say yes to impromptu gathering. So many Halloween and fall gatherings will come across your calendar this weekend, and why not say yes? Costume or no, sharing this time with friends you truly love will make it all the sweeter.
And, if there’s a chance that gathering might be hosted by you, I think it’s wise to stock up on charcuterie essentials before the weekend. Cheeses, dried meats, fruit and nuts, jams and whatnot, they make up a quick and satisfying board for a party, but can also be enjoyed by yourself throughout the week!
I wish you a very cozy, spooky, and safe weekend! October is a beautiful time, so enjoy these last few days, and I'll be back in November, friend.
This Week’s Little Joy: Last week I took my brother to my alma mater, Christopher Newport University. I gave him a bit of an insider's tour around campus, as he had previously spent most of his time in the concert halls to see me in various ensembles, but will be transferring there next fall. We started at the library's café for coffee and explored the college for a few hours. It was really cool to see my old school through new eyes as I try to prepare my brother for his experience, and was a nice chance for us to hang out. Plus, the fall weather has been lovely.
What I’m Listening To: Like many, this week I've been listening to the new Taylor Swift album, "Midnights." I've been trying to listen to more modern music this weekend (instead of my favorite old jazz records on repeat), so I was pleased to be able to join everyone else as this album premiered. Though it's not my favorite of her albums, my favorite tracks are "Karma" and "Bejeweled" and I definitely think this collection is worth a listen.
Thank you so much for listening! I'm taking a break next week, but will have two new episodes coming in November. Until then, friends, have a spooky weekend and a lovely week!