In the Mood For...


Ok, it's officially fall, so it's time to bring out all the autumn decor, light the fall candles, and wear all the cozy sweaters (with the AC cranked down really low so it's actually cool enough). While I'm waiting for the weather to get the 'fall' memo, I'm enjoying quite a few other autumn-inspired finds that don't necessarily require a drop in temperature.


For the Home: It's no secret that I enjoy having a candle burning in the home, especially as we move toward the fall and winter months. There's something so cozy about a flickering flame and the sweet scent of the season's essence. I was a longtime fan of the Leaves candle from BBW, but I found this pumpkin one from Sand & Fog recently, and I'm absolutely hooked. It's a soy blend which is less heady than most (read: won't give you a headache), and the scent is festive without being overpowering. Also, during the fall season, I enjoy adding a few cozy blankets to my room, and this cozy piece would look so snuggly on the end of the bed, draped on the back of a reading chair, or simply folded in a basket with a pair of slippers, and a couple of good books. One other way that I love to introduce an autumn feel to the house is through a beautiful bouquet of fresh fall florals. I'm inspired by this gorgeous little set-up.

For the Kitchen: It wouldn't be a seasonal edit without some divine autumn-inspired recipes. Here's a couple that are tried and true faves as well as a few I'm planning to test out this season!
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Pumpkin Bread w/Cream Cheese Filling
Roasted Apple & Brie Grilled Cheese
Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies


For the Closet: Fall fashion has always been a bit of a challenge to wear around here, simply due to the heat, but I do appreciate a good knit sweater, a dash of animal print, or a well-styled boot. I usually choose to invest in classic autumn pieces that can be worn year after year, especially when it comes to cashmere, handbags, and shoes. It's fun to pick up a few trendy items, but since I don't have a big window of time to wear these looks, I try to avoid purchasing too much of that. Here's a couple playful and wearable picks for this season!



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Purpose In the Present


It is always at this point in the year, that transition between summer and fall, in which I find myself reflecting on all that has happened and dreaming about what is yet to come. I was re-reading a post written around this time last year on seasons of life, and I think it is relevant (for me at least) once again. You see, there's often this desire to be farther ahead--to wish for what is to come, whether that's an exciting event, a holiday, a special age, or even just the weekend. I think about the dreams, goals, and great plans of all the things I want to do and realize it's easy to miss what's happening in the now. It is important to plan ahead and to set goals. I'm reminded, however, that it is in the present--the current season--that there are still lessons to learn, moments to celebrate and enjoy, and space to grow. Perhaps you find yourself in that same place, ready to leap into a new season or wanting to know what comes next, but may this reminder be one for you as well:


There is purpose in the present. 

Don't rush through life, so focused on what's to come, that you miss what's happening right now. Every season of life has value, has a purpose, and is brimming with potential. We must choose to embrace it, learn from it, and decide to be present. Be open, be teachable, be content (and not complacent), for there are things that you must learn now that will be of value you to you in the seasons to come. I am reminded of Jim Elliot's wise words, "Wherever you are, be all there."
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Color Crush: Emerald Spruce





Jewel tones are the perfect way to embrace fall style without diving headfirst into sweaters and coats. Each season has its own color palette, and this season, emerald spruce is definitely a current favorite from autumn's hues. The delicate leaf motif hidden among the lace is such a pretty detail, and this dress would be perfect for evening events or the start of fall wedding season. Pieces like this exude classic elegance, with a simple, flattering silhouette and feminine touches like bows on the shoulders. What colors are you drawn to this season?  

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September Inspiration


Here we are at the beginning of a new month and a new season! It's time to refresh that inspiration and pick up a few new thoughts to carry us toward our goals and dreams. One thing that I always enjoy about the start of a new month is that we get the chance to create things as we wish. Our actions determine the course of our lives, but before there are actions, there are thoughts. What kinds of things are you allowing in your mind? Do your thoughts bring you to places of possibility, peace, potential, and positivity? I hope they do. If not, today is a great time to start. Challenge yourself to be mindful of the thoughts you entertain...for they create actions which in turn create the life you lead. 

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