making the most of shorter fall days

As the vibrant colors of autumn start to paint the landscape and a slight chill fills the air, we find ourselves bidding farewell to long summer days and welcoming the shorter, crisper days of fall.

While the dwindling daylight might seem like a challenge, it also gives an opportunity to reflect when making the most of shorter fall days.

Let’s explore some delightful ways to embrace the shorter days and create memorable experiences during this enchanting time of year.

Embrace the Beauty of Nature

Fall is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, as trees transform into a kaleidoscope of warm hues.

I like to make it a habit to spend time outdoors, whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll through my neighborhood or exploring hiking trails adorned with colorful foliage.

I love the way the sunlight, filtering through the leaves, creates a magical ambiance, and being surrounded by nature helps me to recharge and appreciate the wonders of the season.

people walking under a tree with colorful autumn leaves
Image Credit: Time Out

Indulge in Warm Beverages and Comfort Foods

As the temperatures drop, I love to dive head first into the comforting flavors of fall.

After a day at work, I like to treat myself to a steaming cup of hot cocoa, apple cider, or pumpkin spice latte. Yum!

I also like to experiment with seasonal recipes that incorporate autumnal ingredients like squash, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cranberries. One of my favorites is an autumn squash and apple bake topped with brown sugar.

Baking aromatic pies, cookies, or roasting root vegetables will fill your home with delightful aromas, creating a cozy atmosphere to savor.

hot apple cider in a mug with sliced apples and a cinnamon stick
Image Credit: The Country Cook

Create a Cozy Indoor Oasis

With darkness descending earlier, I have taken advantage of the longer evenings by transforming my living space into a snug haven. I swap out my light, summer-y fabrics for warm, soft textiles such as chunky blankets, plush cushions, and fluffy rugs that feel amazing on bare feet.

I also use a lot of soft lighting through candles, fairy lights, or my new  fireplace, and I have created a cozy reading nook in my living room.

It’s the perfect time to catch up on your favorite books, watch classic movies, or engage in board games with loved ones.

living room with lit fireplace
Image Credit: Apartment Therapy

Pursue Indoor Hobbies and Creative Pursuits

Shorter fall days offer an ideal opportunity to engage in indoor hobbies and ignite your creative spirit. I enjoy knitting, painting, writing, or putting together a puzzle.
 
Use this time to learn a new skill, enroll in an online course, or start a journal.
 
Cultivate your passions and allow your creativity to flourish in the comfort of your home.
 
Woman watering bulbs in indoor planters
Image Credit: Ordinary and Happy

Embrace the Hygge Lifestyle

Originating from Denmark, the concept of hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) embraces the idea of finding joy in simple, cozy moments.
 
Light candles, curl up with a soft blanket, enjoy a good book, or gather with loved ones around a crackling fire.
 
Hygge encourages us to slow down, appreciate the small pleasures in life, and nourish our well-being during the fall season.
 
pillows in front of a roaring fire in the fireplace
Image Credit: The Simplemost

Explore Cultural and Seasonal Events

Fall is a season teeming with cultural and seasonal events.

Attend local harvest festivals, farmers’ markets, or apple orchards to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.

Visit art exhibitions, theaters, or museums to explore the cultural offerings in your community.

Engaging in these activities will not only enrich your knowledge but also create lasting memories.

Chinese dragon in festival parade
Image Credit: Good Housekeeping

While the shorter fall days may initially seem like a challenge, they provide us with an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones, and embrace the cozy atmospheres of our homes.

I hope this inspires you to see this season as a time to refuel, reflect and rekindle all that is put on hold during our busy times in life.

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Hi, I’m Danielle!

I am the designer, writer and diy’er behind this blog. I enjoy decorating my home for practically nothing by doing most of the work myself, finding new and imaginative ways to make it beautiful and by watching for killer sales. I find humor almost anywhere and can laugh at myself through it all. I have learned that most projects don’t go exactly as intended, but can be more beautiful than the original plan.

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