We’re just about halfway through October now and despite it being in the 70s in Colorado, I am fully embracing the season and everything that comes with it. I’ve already talked a little bit about my love of pumpkin-flavored everything and Pumpkin Spice drinks (literally bought PSL coffee creamer yesterday to have with coffee) but fall has so many other things about it that I love. And since we’re in this sweet spot between summer and the cold of winter and snow, I wanted to share a few things that make me excited to be in October and going into November.
#1: Baking
I got really into cooking and baking between 2019 and 2021 and I still love it. I haven’t made a sourdough loaf in a hot minute, but I truly love all the fall-themed baked goods you can make around this time. I literally have Pumpkin Bread in the oven as I’m writing this because I love apple crisp, and chocolate chip pumpkin muffins, and pies, and so many other things. I think this is a great time to really incorporate flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg into what you eat and it all adds up to a lot of great sweet and savory treats. All of them also pair so well with homemade spiced wine.
#2: Watching Seasonal TV Shows & Movies
I’m not just talking about watching spooky movies leading up to Halloween — though that is so fun to do as well. I mean watching TV shows and movies and watching videos that are centered around fall or take place during fall. Or just have those cozy autumn vibes. Over The Garden Wall (2014) is one of those for me; it’s a show that I can really appreciate and is perfect for those autumn-spooky-seasonal vibes. I’ve also heard Gilmore Girls being a great show for this, or even nostalgic ones like Friends — just shows that make you embrace this transitional time before the holidays.
#3: Appreciating The Foliage & Colors
I don’t think it takes a lot to appreciate the world around you. I love the leaves changing color and the Aspen trees turning this deep rich yellow color. I love looking around and acknowledging how pretty everything looks before the leaves all fall, when there’s a slight breeze and everything is so calm. I think late September to mid-October is the peak of leaves changing color and I think it;s important to take a look before it all becomes covered in show.
#4: Cozy Sweaters & Other Fall Fashion
To be clear, I am not a really fashionable girly. I try, of course, but I would not call myself trendy or regularly keeping up with new fashion. But I do love that in fall it’s time to swap out the tank tops and shorts for cozy sweaters and fleece-lined leggings. I love that I can wear cardigans and long-sleeved shirts and start getting into my more cold-weather wardrobe before freezing temperatures hit me like a rock. I’ve also been looking into more fall-style makeup looks with browns, reds, yellows, and other styles that are most in line with the season. It all reminds me that we’re getting into the more cozy season with warm mugs and being underneath a blanket and all that jazz.
Savor October & November Before It’s Gone
This is your sign to — even if you’re not a big fan of fall or colder weather — to make the most of it before winter is in full force. Whether you’re watching all the horror films or are taking the most cozy route like me, appreciate it now before Halloween passes by and we’ll be looking at Thanksgiving.
