September

September is here! 

Time for school buses to reappear as the kiddies head back to the classroom, time for the kickoff of football season, and time to harvest all of that wonderful remaining produce in the garden.

Do:  Visit an apple orchard in your area. 

Why?  Because there are so many delicious varities of apples to try other than just Macintosh and Golden Delicious. Think of all the yummy desserts you can make on chilly evenings like baked apples and apple crisp.  Many orchards have days when you can sample all of the different varities they grow and enjoy a refreshing cup of apple cider while you're at it.  You're supporting local farmers and it's a fun day out for the entire family.

Go:  On a picnic with your family.

Why?  The weather is beautiful in September with cooler temperatures and low humidity (and hopefully less bugs).  It's a great way to spend some quality time together on a weekend and enjoy some fresh air before summer's gone.

Get:  Things to make your home a haven. 

Why? With the daylight growing shorter and chillier temps, your family will be spending more time indoors. Stock up on board games, inspirational fall magazines with tempting new recipes to try, delectable bakery-scented candles to gently fragrance your home, DVDs to watch when everyone's stuck indoors, and ingredients to restock your pantry and cupboards with creamy cocoas, exquisite teas, noodles and spices for soups, and garden herbs to dry.  Don't neglect your linen closet either:  this is the perfect time to take inventory and think about replacing summer bedspreads with cozy, flannel sheets, downy-soft blankets, and thick, down comforters once the cold weather arrives.

Read:  Autumn from the Heart of the Home by Susan Branch

Why?:  It's chock full of charming seasonal illustrations to inspire and delight you, adorable handmade crafts to create, and scrumptious fall recipes to try!

Wishing you all, a warm and wonderful month of September!