Autumn Sipped Away Like A Bottle of Wine

Get Outside

When we grow up, it seems like most things lose their magic, including the winter. Its a season that can be sad, isolating and stressful for people. Winter in the Upper Midwest can be especially long and cold yet there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this season. Just having something to look forward to is always a positive force in the dead of winter. Here are a few ways I’m prioritizing most of my free time in the days and months ahead:

1. Simply getting outside — Time spent outdoors even if it’s just a walk with Coach, does wonders to lift my spirits. When I’m all bundled up I also find it the perfect time of year to hike. I actually prefer the cold to the heat as long as I’m dressed appropriately. Plus, nothing can beat the tranquility of walking along a quiet, frozen beach.

2. Craft projects — I recently completed my first hand-embroidered baby blanket, a gift I made for my friend's baby girl. After watching a few videos on YouTube, I figured out a couple basic stitches and I'm really excited to start my next project.
3. Photo book idea — For a really long time I've been meaning to create photo books with all our old black and white family photos. This way, there will be digital copies of each photo if something ever happened to the original. I can also print multiple copies of the book for different family members to enjoy as well. I would love to make this one of my top projects for this winter.
4. Cleaning and organizing — This time of year is perfect for organizing every nook and cranny. I plan to go through every drawer and closet in my home. I will donate what I can, sell a few things and only throw away what I have to. It’s a great feeling to know where everything is and live as simply as possible.

5. A cozy night at home — There is nothing better than snuggling up with a warm cup of hot cocoa and a pup on my lap. I'm planning a night at home where I'll make my favorite stew and mashed potatoes for dinner. I might go wild and end the night with some freshly baked cookies and wine.

And so —  as much as I enjoy football season and colorful autumn leaves, even though I love getting out on the boat and dropping a line in the water, and surprisingly I anticipate spring because it means the arrival of my birthday, every year I warmly welcome winter.

A Trip to Sam's Christmas Village

A couple weeks ago my family and I went to a Christmas village and light tour near my hometown. We had so much fun, the weather ended up being perfect and it was a magical way to kick off the season. The holidays are the time for us to think about gifts, but not just the paper-wrapped kind. The people in our lives can themselves be gifts — and so can a thousand other things, many of which are overlooked day to day. Our trip to the Christmas village reminded me of that truth and how grateful I am to simply be surrounded by family —  they're what makes the season meaningful.

Autumn Apple Party

This weekend I hosted an impromptu "autumn apple" themed party. Fall is by far my favorite season and most of my friends and family share the same feeling! There's nothing more comforting than fall and the exciting things it brings: Warm plaid throws, yummy scented candles, copper mugs filled with cider, football season, hot chocolate, and loads of impending family time. I wanted everything to feel laid back, but have a festive fall vibe to get everyone excited about this enchanting time of year.

For the sake of being honest, life has been particularly stressful for the last couple of weeks, which is why I felt really moved to bring everyone together. I am so happy I did. It was so reassuring to see their faces, which made me feel connected. And grounded. And grateful that we could gather and around a pretty table and get our party on. It was the best weekend. I cherish memories like this, built with people I love and enjoy. 🍂💛