I can’t recall being more excited about the return of fall that I am this year. I don’t know what it is, but I’ve been really digging these cooler temperatures and the slight change in the color of the leaves. Fall is one of my favorite seasons and I’m feeling in the spirit at the moment. Here’s what I’m loving (and looking forward to most) about autumn:
Apple cider.
Served hot or cold, it’s one of my favorite things about fall. I’m also a big fan of apple cider donuts, too! When I go out for a drink with friends or co-workers, hard cider is my drink of choice. I’m not really a beer girl, but there’s something about swigging this sweet, tangy, and bubbly treat from a glass bottle. Simply put, I love cider.
Fall Ball.
The Vintage is welcoming the return of autumn with a Fall Ball event on September 21 beginning at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $5-$10 (give more if you can!) and the event promises live music, gourmet chocolates, farm fresh foods, artisan wares, and mulled wine. What’s not to love? I can’t wait for this – I hope to see you there!
Apples.
Macintosh are my favorite to munch on, but I also like making applesauce with Granny Smiths, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of lemon peel. I also love the sounds apples make, like when you run your fingers across its skin, or catch one that’s being tossed to you, or that first bite.
NEPA BlogCon.
October 5 is the day we’ve all been waiting for. NEPA BlogCon will return and I’m so excited to be one of the founders of this amazing conference. We have great speakers in store, plus, we’re raising money for Blue Chip Farms Animal Refuge. Please grab your tickets before we close registration on 9/27!
Cinnamon.
Friday night, I had THE BEST hot chocolate at The Cafe at The Vintage. It’s called Aretha’s Hot Chocolate, and it’s a blend of milk and dark chocolate chips melted with steamed milk and topped with whipped cream and cinnamon. It’s like a hug in a cup. Cinnamon just has this taste and scent of home.
Sweaters.
There’s nothing better than being wrapped in softness. On my “get ready for fall” trip to Target, I nabbed two knit sweaters that I can’t wait to wear. My ideal sweater is lightweight, super soft, and warm. I don’t like chunky knits or anything itchy. I’m picky about my sweaters, but you can bet that I love wearing them once those temperatures drop!
High school football.
I’m not a fan of football, but I try to make it to at least one high school football game a year. The atmosphere is electric and I think I go as much for the people watching and experience as I do for the game. I usually try to go back to my old high school for the Old Shoe Game. I usually run into a few classmates and it’s a nice way to spend an evening. Just be sure to bring blankets – those bleachers can be brutal.
Haunted house commercials on the radio.
This is a weird quirk, but I absolutely love haunted house radio commercials. Every time I catch one, I immediately stay on that station. I think it reminds me of my own fun working in a haunted house while I was a teenager. Many September and October weekends were spent at the Lehman Haunted Barn. Strangely enough, I won’t ever go through as a customer though. I enjoyed working in one, but I’m still scared out of my wits to walk through as a patron. I know the tricks, I know they’re all real people like me, but I just can’t do it. I’ve never successfully been through a haunted house before, either!
Tights and boots.
Oh, my boots. I love my boots. And I love wearing tights – and being generally covered up. This season, I’ve picked up a few pairs of tights in some new colors, including mustard, emerald green, plum, and teal.
Windows open and two blankets on the bed nights.
Chilly nights are perfect for snuggling up. We’ve got two blankets on the bed and now it’s just so cozy. I love waking up and having the tip of my nose feel chilly while the rest of me is warm.
Pumpkin baked goods.
I’m making pumpkin muffins this weekend based on this Smitten Kitchen recipe. I love pumpkin muffins, pumpkin scones, pumpkin chocolate chip bread…you’ll probably see me turn into a pumpkin after this fall because I’m so excited to start baking with it. Strangely enough, pumpkin pie isn’t on my list of must-eats. I’m all about the pumpkin breads and muffins, baby!
What do you love most about this incredible season?
You mentioned so many of the best things about fall! I also love coming home to a chilly house and putting the fireplace on and spicy fall scented candles – oh and apple dumplings.
I love this time of year too!