from the second step

written by blynda purdy

FALL—it’s almost here, and I could not be more excited! I’m going to be brutally honest here and hope I don’t offend most of you… I am not a Pumpkin-Spice-Latte girl.  In fact, I actually find myself marking the PSL happenings as merely the pre-cursor to the far superior RED CUP season!  Don’t get me wrong— in my book every season merits its own special coffee moments!!   I guess though, when it comes to pumpkin, I’m more of a purist— I like them uncarved in all their “fall bounty beauty”, and if they must be cut it should be to be made into a pie!! But truly— the gorgeous and unique shapes, lines and colors of these fall fruits never fail to inspire me!

This week as I have thought about penning this post I have found myself giddy with (SLIGHTLY) cooler temps and the gentle goldening of the sunlight that signal God is about to do something amazing— usher a new season into existence!!  How do you prepare for this change in your home? What traditions and memories do you hold most dear? The change of season is always such a wonderful time for those kinds of reflection questions… For me, fall brings with it some of my most favorite happenings: football, cozy fires in backyard fire pits, soup, pumpkins, sweaters (albeit lightweight), and planning for holiday gatherings— lots of them!!!  When our kids were growing up we often traveled at Christmas, which brought wonderful memories and moments. However, we were rarely ever anywhere but home for Thanksgiving,  and the consistency and intentionality of observing a season of gratitude, along with consistent traditions and yummy food has elevated that particular holiday to “favored status” for many of us.

There, I’ve painted the larger, more meaningful picture of “fall” in my home, but now let’s get down to some nitty gritty:

“To decorate or not?” 

That is the question! For many of you this seems absurd; you’re already decked out in warm tones and wrapping your Christmas presents… But I know for some this is an overwhelming question as you wander the aisles of Hobby Lobby. Do I or do I not? And how??? Or how many (fill in the blanks)??? Well, I hope as I share my thoughts (which are just opinion— there is not one right answer to these questions!!) those of you in “overwhelm” will find some encouragement. 

First— go slowly, just like the changing of leaves. Add a little here, then there.  Go for subtle; sometimes less really is more. And if you aren’t drawn to orange, yellow and brown look to other tones like a heathered plum or a smoky gray.  I shoot to start the week before “official autumn” and then add a little to my spaces over the next few weeks… 

Second— in addition to colors, add textures that make you think “cozy”… Maybe that’s pumpkins everywhere, but maybe it’s warm-toned faux floral sprigs and branches.  A chunky throw or sweater-inspired pillows in neutral tones can make a big statement.  The key here is to involve as many senses as possible in a harmonious, peaceful way.  A warm-scented candle, a soft throw, and beautiful colors all play together to create opportunity for memories to be enhanced.  Add in some delicious flavors and you’re set.  For sure PSL- everything  if that’s your jam!! My favorites include hot cider, warm soft ginger snaps, roasted veggie soups, and pumpkin pie (WAY before Thanksgiving Day!).  

Finally— dress your table. It is the place where so many treasured moments are enjoyed! This is where I pile on the pumpkins— I use real ones and sprinkle in faux ones I’ve collected over the years.  I anchor everything with a special runner and have been known to drape a cozy throw across the table as my foundation. Remember, don’t go too tall— you want everyone to be able to see each other across the table! Go as big as your table allows, but leave plenty of room for place settings and glasses. No need to to have to keep re-building your creation each time you use your table.  I like to add in tapered candles and unique branches and sprigs to tie it all together and fill in gaps and spaces.

In closing— enjoy expressing yourself in your home this fall! Maybe it’s time for a change from past years; maybe the tried and true is exactly what you need.  If you love cute sayings and signs display them!! If you don’t you’re not a bad person!  A candle may speak a 1000 words anyway… And, truly, if you love Pumpkin-Spice… GO FOR IT with gusto! 

…till next time,

🧡blynda