Mandy Murphy With only a few more weeks until the autumn equinox, its almost time to get autumn cozy!
This is the beginning of all things cozy. I look forward to the crisp air, the smell of a burning fire, the leaves changing colors to red and golden tones, the feel of warm blankets and a hot drink to sip on. I love to stock up on my fall scented candles–they are an absolute essential for a simply cozy life. The house is filled with the smells of Autumn, lighted candles, glowing pumpkins, and a few of my favorite fall decorations placed throughout the house.
On the weekends, we always have on college football. I love the atmosphere of a good game on in the living room, but sometimes, I like to escape to my room, get under a cozy blanket, and watch a movie…most likely one that I have seen a billion times. But there is something comforting to me about watching my favorite movies—predictable and familiar.
Click here for a list of my all-time favorite autumn movies.
Pumpkin patches, hayrides, bonfires, hiking, reading on the front porch under a cozy blanket while listening to the kids play are some of our traditional outdoor autumn loves.
Meals are so fun to plan in the fall.
I often check the 5-day weather forecast in hopes of a temperature drop to cook up a pot of chili or homemade soup. I also love to cook a comforting chicken casserole or a pot roast. Comfort food is a must during the next few months. One of our favorites for breakfast is sausage balls or a coffee cake with a cinnamon streusel topping.
Growing up, mom always made certain desserts during the Autumn months and it is something that I remember clearly. It was always such a comforting feeling. We didn’t have a lot of money, but I remember our very small home was always cozy and clean. A few of my absolute favorite desserts that she made (and still makes) that I have carried on with my family are Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies, Spider Legs (also called haystacks), and Hello Dollies.
My husband and kids look forward to these every year.
Click here for a list of some of our favorites.
In Tennessee, the days are cooler, but at night there is a crisp, chill in the air. The clear sky, the moon, the stars, and a cozy fire outside bring us together to feel warm. The glow in the homes from a distance… the sounds of the crackling fire, and most importantly, the feeling of peace and relaxation is present.
Autumn is a sensory experience that brings us all home. It is a time to allow ourselves to slow down, be present, and enjoy the simplest of things that make us feel cozy and free from distractions. I’ve always loved this time of year, but learning to appreciate it and be present in every moment has been a life shift for me. With COVID-19, it is important now more than ever to be attentive to our inner peace, comfort, and happiness–you are worth it.
