Welcome To The Cosy Season

There's a hint of promise in the air this time of year, a sense of anticipation as we head towards the holiday season.
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Not feeling it? Darker mornings and earlier sunsets combined with less than perfect weather can make it hard to get in the spirit of things. I always try to reframe this time of year as "the cosy season" and I hope this might help you too.

Here are some of the ways I embrace this time of year, despite the less than perfect conditions.

1. Bring In The Light

Candles bring a warm glow to any room, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. I also love using battery-operated candles with timers so I can come home to the soft, flickering glow of candlelight. Just remember—only use battery-operated candles in this case, and never leave any candle burning unattended.

I bought these pretty Lights 4 Fun candles* for our home and I have been really pleased with them. (affiliate link)

2. Add Blankets and Soft Furnishings

Now is the time to bring out those lovely throws, blankets and pillows you have tucked away in the cupboard, or perhaps treat yourself to some new ones. Pop throws or blankets on the arms of chairs and encourage snuggling up under a blanket to read or watch television.

3. Enjoy Some Comfort Food

Make your favourite comfort food recipes or perhaps try something new. Here are some of my favourites:-

Honey & Garlic Chicken Serve this easy, versatile slow cooker with rice and veggies, noodles, or even on a bun. Get the recipe

Beef and Ale Stew A frugal, easy to make stew perfect for family meals or entertaining. Get the recipe

Vegetable and Barley Stew A warming vegan/vegetarian recipe, also perfect for anyone trying to eat less meat. Get the recipe

Chocolate Chip Cookies This slice and bake recipe is perfect for those days when you fancy a little treat. Get the recipe

4. Get Outside

Taking even a short walk in nature is a wonderful way to recharge, calm your mind, and help to soothe your nervous system. I aim to take at least a short walk most days, especially if I glimpse some sunshine peeking through the clouds! If time or circumstances don’t allow for a walk, try stepping outside for just a few minutes. Take a moment to pause, take a deep breath, and soak up any little bit of nature you can find— even if it’s simply the rustle of autumn leaves or the birds singing.

5. Cosy Up With A Book

Need reading inspiration? There are reviews of some of 2024's new book releases on the website now - or check out my latest book purchases on Instagram. I'm seeking advice on which book to read first, so please let me know what you think!

Links marked with an asterix * are affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate I earn a small commission if you purchase via these links.

This week I'm...

Reading - A Room with a View* by E M Forster (affiliate link). Watching the movie back in the eighties (the one with Maggie Smith and Helena Bonham Carter) left me made me want to visit Florence. This week, all these years later, I'm finally making the trip!

Watching - Nobody Wants This on Netflix

Listening to - The Edit Your Life Podcast with Christine Koh

Baking - Cranberry Orange and Ginger Loaf - a delicious seasonal quick bread perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas or just a cosy autumn day.

Getting ready for - Our first visit to Florence!

That's all for now. I hope you will embrace the cosy season and really enjoy the remaining days of autumn. Wishing all of you who are celebrating next week a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Thank you so much again for being a subscriber. Remember you can reply to this email with any questions, comments, suggestions or just to say hi. I love to hear from you. Warmly, April x April J Harris | Helping you make the most of life at home and away. ​Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest​