fall

Are you feeling fall in the air where you live? We definitely are here. This fall is extra sweet (for me). It is the first time in 3 years where the nesting and settling in for a long winter brings cozy, warm feelings. Four years ago, right after Jon graduated from law school, we took a risk and moved 3 hours away from our home in the Seattle area. We moved for a job that would offer Jon wonderful experiences as a new lawyer, in a dozen different areas of practice.

It also happened to be the town where I grew up. While we lived there we had lots of precious time with my Dad and step-Mom Judy, and we even were able to buy the house we'd always wanted. But, I'm not sure one can really ever go back to the town where one grew up, especially after losing a parent there. At least not me. Prayerfully we started the long process of trying to move back. It took 15 months to complete that process - a year we won't forget for a very long time. Saying goodbye to my Dad and Judy being the hardest part of all. Leaving our sweet home was no picnic either. And now that I think of it, there are a few friends that still hold a piece of our hearts.

But God was faithful to us. Even though we can be two very big indecisive dummies he still gave us the desires of our hearts. So many of you were praying for us, and I'm not sure I've thanked all of you. So, thanks.

So back to fall. With the days getting shorter and colder, it can bring with it some dark days, figuratively and literally. Did you know that women are more depressed during the fall than any other time of year? So far I'm not feeling that darkness. I'm feeling restful...like we're home again. Without the figurative darkness pressing down on my shoulders it's easier to focus on the things to look forward to, the things that fall can bring.
Warmth and candlelight, playtime, sweet fall treats, outings and other good things to fill up those long fall nights.

Here are a few of the little things I'm looking forward to:

I'm trying to get brave enough to take on this knitting project. It is entirely knit in the round, so is supposedly easy. I'm thinking a soft gray.

As soon as the rain starts to fall, I always want to make soup. I've got Jon's family recipe for chili, (so easy and yummy - let me know if you want the recipe) and chicken noodle soup on the menu for this week. But, I'm thinking about trying this recipe for Carrot tomato soup.

I'm unable to resist soft vintage cotton pillowcases when I'm shopping at Goodwill. Once I saw this post from Rhythm of the Home, which gives an easy tutorial for sewing them into cloth napkins, I knew just what to do with my stash.

I love to decorate our home for fall, but often I really need new ideas. When I get a few spare minutes I love clicking over to the Fall Nesting Party for lots of really inspired ideas. Some women are so amazing!

And, of course, I'm looking forward to settling in at night with Jon for some fall TV (I can't lie!). Some shows we are excited about watching are Fringe, Amazing Race and Undercovers.

What are you most looking forward to this fall?