I haven't felt like writing for a while now. So once I posted all the ones I had in the hopper, plus the ones that just started writing themselves in my head spontaneously, I just stopped. With some curiosity, I observed this shift and wondered if that was going to be it for this month. I knew what was going on. I haven't quite been the same since Hurricane Helene gave me five days of darkness. But also, I paid a really big bill and now my savings account is depressed. I've been trying to console her, but it's not working as well as I'd hoped. And then, this morning, I saw this video in my YouTube feed... Me - aha! Here's something I could write a blog post about. Also me - you already wrote a fall post. Me - but this one's different. I think they'll like it. Especially if they watch the video. Also me - well, it is amusing, so maybe you're right. (Sigh) Okay. Me - we can put on lake/lapping water sounds to listen to while you write it. Also me - sold! So now, I present to you - "The Ultimate Fall Reset that Will Actually Get Your Life Together" The Ultimate Fall Reset ListWasn't that video adorable? Part of the time I was watching it, I was wondering if I could put videos together like that, and with careful editing, also be adorable on video. The cool thing was, it wasn't just cute, I actually found it helpful. So I decided to do the things on the list... (1) Create a Cozy AmbianceHmm. Maybe I can find a cute little quilted pumpkin somewhere and stick it on the coffee table or dining table. But meanwhile, maybe imagining cozy fall decor would help... (2) Plan a Morning Fall RoutineSo for this one, she says to understand that your routines can change with each season, because you'll feel different as the seasons change. And one of my goals is to understand and then honor my own rhythms, especially as they change with the seasons. And I think what's best for me in the fall is to expose myself to as much daylight as is possible, even if it's through the window. So if I had complete control of myself :), the first part of my ideal morning routine would start with getting up around 7am. That might mean I could take a delicious afternoon nap each day, right after brunch (I'm not much of an early eater), and still get enough time in front of my light box. I invite you to play along, so how would you start you ideal fall morning routine? I'd like for my morning routine to include a cup of tea, and preferably, I'd be sitting in a cozy chair next to or near a window. And I'll be moving within the next few months, so that cozy tea with a view, might become possible. Notice how I've now added nature to my morning routine? Another way to add nature could include fall scenes on one of my devices, complete with nature sounds. What would be next on your list? I also like the idea of adding music to my fall morning routine - well, probably year-round. Because I read recently that 40 minutes of music each day will help to replace the dopamine you lose as fall reduces the available daylight. Which reminds me - get your fall changes in place before November, when we change the time, because you're probably going to need at least a week just to recover from that! Well, so far, I've got 4 things to add to my morning routine on days that I can manage to do them... -get up with the sun -have morning tea by the window -watch fall nature scenes -listen to music What's on your list? (3) Plan an Event to Look Forward to this FallFor me, this is moving, and Thanksgiving! Hopefully, moving before Thanksgiving. In the video, she mentions a crafting get-together with friends. And I do have some friends I'd like to get-together with this fall. Not for the "we're all getting old," $100 class of 82 dinner, but possibly for the next less-expensive planning session for that dinner. What about you? (4) Prep Your Fall-Spiced TreatFor months, I have been trying to find the perfect autumn tea. It would have apple and cinnamon. Maybe even apple cider and cinnamon. But it would not be a rooibos tea (it's not really tea), or have things like blackberry, or black currant or other evil fruits added to it! Well, today I learned that I can walk away from the path of endless searching, and instead, choose the path where I make my own damn syrup and add it to regular black tea. And this is the moment where I choose option #2. In the sacred dance of flavors and energies, creating an apple cinnamon syrup is akin to crafting a potion of warmth and solace. This alchemical blend of nature’s gifts not only enhances your tea but also invites you to embark on a journey of sensory awakening and inner peace. - Canva's AI Oh my god! Why does Canva's Magic Write think that this is my custom voice? Sheesh. THE RECIPE: Apple Cider Syrup 4 cups of apple cider (I prefer Martinelli's) 1/2 a cup of cinnamon sugar 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract Then you heat it up and stir on the stove, and when everything is blended, let it cool, before using or storing in the fridge. Over to YOU (1) Do you have a better apple cinnamon syrup recipe? (2) What's your favorite fall drink treat? (5) Try Before You Panic BuySo this is about not being influenced by social media or fall fashion ads. Instead, she advised trying on the fall clothes you already have, so you'll know exactly what you need. But my fall clothes were right there in the closet, so I already knew what I needed. And I am happy with the fall capsule wardrobe I've created. I haven't worn a lot of them yet, but I've loved the outfits I've worn, so far. What about you? Have you done your fall shopping yet? (6) Make a Cozy Fall Reading ListI love this idea, and I did deliberately buy fall-themed romance novels this year. I think I only have one left to read, so I may have to go find a few more. On the other hand, Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas begins tomorrow, so I may find that my preference shifts to Christmas books, instead. What have you been reading? And do you have a reading list? (7) Make a Fall Bucket ListAnd finally, we come to the final step in getting your life together, by planning for fall. :) It's making a fall bucket list. And I was about to say that I don't have one, but I suppose I do. -Creating a fall wardrobe was on it, and I have done that. -Reading fall-themed books is another bucket list item I can check off the list. -My church does God on Broadway every October, which I love! They decorate a set and make costumes and sing songs from a Broadway play, and then the sermon relates to it in some way. CONFESSION - some years, this is the only time I go to church. And I missed the first one this month, but watched it on YouTube and now, have seen the 2nd one. So it looks like this one will be checked off, too. So only three things are left... -spending Thanksgiving with my friends and family. -drinking apple cinnamon tea -buying the rest of my Christmas gifts between now and the end of November, without spending more than I intend to spend. How about you? Have you made a fall bucket list? And do you now feel that your life will be okay, once you get the things on this fall reset list in place? See you next time! love, Jeanine
13 Comments
10/17/2024 04:32:37 pm
My 'normal' job - I tend to not have a fall bucket list, but more of a everything I need to do before Peak Season hits. For years, I've marked in my calendar is begins October 15 and that hasn't failed me yet.
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10/17/2024 06:37:38 pm
Oh, that's interesting, Jodi! So you have a sort of fall task list for work each year? Well, it might be fun to make one just for yourself.
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10/18/2024 12:59:26 am
I've got two different schedules - one for me, one for work. I've figured out the hard way that if I don't get my personal stuff done by October 15, it's not happening until after January 15-ish (thanks to how crazy work gets). And at work? If I don't order supplies in August, many items end up on backorder and I'm too swamped with Peak season stuff to deal with it. Then the hammer drops from up above and no more ordering. 10/18/2024 07:03:55 am
Jodi, it sounds like you are well organized, but busy in the fall. I'm glad you find ways to enjoy the season. And how cool that even the oat milk creamers offer a pumpkin-flavored version. 10/17/2024 06:31:48 pm
I did find the video cute but she talked way too fast. I was getting nervous with the speed. Change ups are good. Thanks for reminding me it's autumn and shorter daylight. I feel on the edge of a nervous breakdown. Now I remember why. I have lots of teas and am making fire cider. Waiting for it to finish fermenting. Love your post.
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10/17/2024 06:41:36 pm
Oh, I didn't even notice she was talking fast - but she says she has anxiety, so maybe that's why. You're welcome, Lily! It's definitely fall and I'm feeling it much more than I usually do. I ordered some vitamin d3 and I haven't done that in years - of course, that's probably part of the problem. Hope you find a way to get more sunlight and feel better.
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10/17/2024 08:03:16 pm
Well, Lucky me, my birthday is at the end of fall, November 20th. There has been so much going on with me. Writing and playing with Freeda are my saving grace. A nice long walk on a nice is the plan.
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10/18/2024 07:06:16 am
Oh, I bet long walks with a chance to see autumn leaves are a great way to celebrate fall! I'm glad you have Freeda's company, too.
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I don't make a fall bucket list and my life will never be okay again, but I can fake it and make it seem like everything is fine. I will be going to my quiet space with my chai tea with extra cinnamon and relive beautiful memories. So far that's all I have figured out for fall.
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10/18/2024 07:11:01 am
Martha, the garden moments with the chai tea sound so soothing and comforting, and I hope they will be. I can well imagine that with your loss, it must feel like nothing will ever be the same again! It's a testament to the love you and Rich had. But I bet there's no one in your life who wants or needs you to fake it. We'd rather be there for you in any way we can.
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10/17/2024 11:39:56 pm
Well, no, I haven't made a fall bucket list. September was kind of awful, to the point that I wanted to cancel my birthday. Or, at least, reschedule my birthday to a time of year when I need a distraction (late winter). But I have been to all sorts of fall celebrations and I'm going to make applesauce and take pictures of the changing leaves so that's about it, I guess.
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10/18/2024 07:14:59 am
Oh no, Alice! I'm so sorry September was kind of awful!! I hope October is being kinder to you. But I understand wanting to save your birthday for a time when it can do some good. Maybe you can plan a 2nd celebration in the winter.
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This is a 26-minutes video, so thanks for summarizing it for us!
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Hi, I'm JeanineI help highly sensitive, awakened healers come home to themselves & create emotional healing, comfort and joy through gentle self-tending techniques and warm, cozy rituals. Want to try one today? Just click the graphic below. Archives
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