It’s that time of year again – the are leaves are changing, pumpkin spice lattes are available everywhere, and it’s just cool enough in the morning for you to want a cozy blanket. It’s Fall! This is one of my favorite seasons because there is so much to do outdoors. To help you enjoy the season, I’ve created a fun list of things you must considering doing before winter hits!
Decorate Your Mantle for Autumn
Bring the autumn season to your living room by combining leaves in gold, orange, and crimson on the fireplace mantel with tiny pumpkins and fragrant candles among them. The mix of colors and decor selected will bring plenty of texture to and provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. Need some inspiration? Here are some fall mantle examples on Southern Living.
Enjoy an Autumn-Inspired Cocktail
Fall is a time of many tastes, from rich pumpkin lattes to apple cider. Give your tastebuds a party by bringing in some of the season’s best flavors. Try adding cranberries or figs to your sangria, sampling a new mulled cider, or adding a cinnamon rim to your hotty toddies. Whatever your preference, don’t be afraid to try something new.
Create Your Own Pumpkin Spice Latte
Did you carve out a pumpkin and now you don’t know what to do with the puree found inside? Why not make your own pumpkin spice latte? Instead of making the drive to Starbucks, blend pumpkin flesh from your carved-out pumpkin to create a puree, mix it together with your favorite type of warm milk, sugar, spices and vanilla extract in a pot, and then pour it into your morning cup of joe. Want to feel fancy? Top it with some whipped cream. You can find the exact recipe at Inspired Taste.
Do an Autumn-Themed Puzzle
Looking for something fun to do now that the sun is going down earlier and it’s chilly out; get the family together to complete a jigsaw puzzle! Puzzles are a great pastime because they challenge you to work together as a team and require you to really think.
Visit the Local Pumpkin Patch
It’s the perfect time of year to visit a pumpkin patch. It’s one of the most exciting things to do with your family during the fall because producers generally include extra activities like as hayrides to improve the experience. To avoid waiting in a long line or coming too late to pick the best pumpkins, arrive 15 minutes before gates open.
Host a Game Night
Pull on your sweats, grab your favorite fall cocktail, and let the soup simmer just a bit longer… We’re having game night with our friends and family. Whether you’re pulling out board games to play with the kids, pairing up to play spades, or hoping to be the first one to yell bingo, everyone has fun when it’s game night!
Plant Fall Flowers
Pansies, Japanese anemones, and mums will bring some color to your garden this fall. Be sure to consult with your supplier to ensure you’re making the right selections for which perennials will bloom throughout the fall season or review a growing zone map so you choose the best plants for your area.
Try a new Fall Soup
There’s nothing more cozy than a bowl of soup, your favorite blanket, and a good movie. This fall season, use pumpkin flesh leftovers or corn from the Autumn harvest and work on perfecting your best soup recipe. Roasting the veggies, browning the meat in a saute pan before adding it to the soup, and using homemade stock with fresh herbs and dairy when serving it are just a few ideas for making fantastic soup. Putting in a little effort when preparing delicious food is important, but I also know you’re busy, so here are some recipes for you to check out.
Bake Pumpkin Bread
Are you seeing my theme with pumpkin yet? Excuse me while I go enjoy a slice with the pumpkin spice latte I learned how to make, while you check out these recipes to try!
Merry Christmas?
Christmas is only a couple of months away; which means its photo time! Schedule some time for you and the family to have your photos taken so you can get them out on time. Shutterfly and Minted are two of my favorite sites to make designing your card out easy!
Get Started with Your Bucket List
This list of fall activities is a great way to get started on your own bucket list. Whether you enjoy visiting pumpkin patches, going apple picking, or throwing a Friendsgiving dinner for your friends and family during this festive season, there are plenty of things to do! What’s been your favorite thing you have found to do this autumn so far?