experience more:
Classic autumn activities create memories we carry with us for a lifetime. As the warm days of summer grow shorter and the temperatures get cooler, we inherantly crave the coziness only the autumn can bring. Autumn is a time of harvest, a time to store away for the long winter months ahead, a time to build a cozy den of warmth, and to engage in a few fun activities.
We like to keep things as simple as possible because of our travel and moving routines. So, instead of decorating with pumpkins and faux stems, we lean more into experiences and we try to recapture the scents of the season through fragrances and culinary delights.
Head to the farm
I think it’s easy to say that heading to the local farm, farmstead, or farmer’s market is one of the easiest ways to participate in classic autumn activities. Whether you go for a bushel of freshly picked apples or you prefer searching out the perfect pumpkin, this is a sure bet for getting in the fall feels. Weather isn’t usually a factor unless it’s on the edge of extreme. We’ve found these activities are just as appealing on a warm sunny fall day, or a drizzly cooler fall day. Either way, grab a camera, pack a picnic or a pick up a quick coffee and you’ll be well on your way!
Enjoy the outdoors
I’m a sucker for a good fall hike; it’s a classic autumn activity for me. I love throwing on a cozy sweatshirt or soft well-worn flannel and heading to a local arboretum. The trails are generally easier if you hit a local park or state park, and crowds aren’t as heavy if you go the local route over a national park.
In any case, heading outdoors, grabbing some dappled sunshine, finding a place to put down a blanket and read for a while…. this is the epitome of fall. Best part is, it’s a low or no cost way to go if you’re minding a tight budget.
Stir up a fall treat
This one is such a no-brainer for us. Because we don’t do a lot of fall decorating, we depend on other senses to evoke memories. We go for fall baking and fall fragrances. I have been making the same pumpkin pie recipe for the last 20 years or more. The secret? Follow the recipe on the can of pumpkin puree. Also, don’t use pumpkin pie filling – just the puree, and add your own spices. I get so many questions about my recipe – and people are always shocked when I tell them… “I just follow the recipe on the can.”
We also like a few good fall scented candles. Our favorite scents don’t tend to lean toward pumpkin or apple – we prefer a warm leather or woodsy scent. We have a few favorites listed here. There is one exception, though. We are a sucker for a good mulled cider fragrance.
Choose your favorites and make a few memories
No matter what your favorites, choose a few well-intentioned activities this autumn and make a few memories. We only have one life to live, and making it a beautiful isn’t difficult or expensive. Remember it doesn’t have to perfect to be fun. Relax and go with it. The best memories are made in the everydayness of life.
