There's something about fall on the Island that gets me every single year. Summer is such a whirlwind around here, so when the air starts to cool and the pace slows down just a touch, I feel like I can finally exhale. I've been soaking up every bit of it lately, so I thought I'd share a few of the little things making my heart happy this season. Grab a warm drink and get cozy, friend.
Morning Tea on the Deck
My favourite part of the day right now is my morning tea out on the deck, just breathing in that fall air. There's a crispness to it that feels so natural and welcoming, and my body and soul truly soak it up. I'll get a warm, cozy fire going, put a little Noah Kahan on in the background and just sit there taking it all in. No scrolling, no to do list (well, not yet anyway). It's the kind of slow start that sets the tone for the whole day, and I'm not mad about it.
The Caramel Apple Crisp Sundae at Winslow Ice Cream Hut
I know most people pack away the ice cream cravings once September hits, but not this girl. The caramel apple crisp sundae at Winslow Ice Cream Hut is fall in one glorious sundae, and it's worth every single spoonful. If you haven't made the trip yet, consider this your sign. Chef's kiss.
Apple Picking at The Branch
Last weekend we all went to our friend Dave's orchard, The Branch, in Montague. Between all of us we picked 30 pounds of apples, and it was so great to get outside together. The kids were humoured with a little apple education from Adam, son of Roger (Roger being a former apple orchard owner and distributor), and there was lots of laughter as they learned from Adam. We've got plenty of apples now, and I can't wait to whip up something warm and comforting with them.
Fall Decor Vignettes
Okay, this one is truly my jam (pun fully intended). I love creating cozy little fall decor vignettes with real pumpkins, fall mums and all of the things. A cluster of pumpkins on the front step, a pot of mums by the door, a few little touches tucked here and there, and suddenly the whole space feels warm and welcoming. I'm a big believer in using the real stuff whenever I can, because nothing beats the colour and texture of what's actually in season right now.
Fall Flavours Food and Drink Festival
Fall Flavours season is one of my favourite times of year on the Island, and we've been making the most of it. Last week we went to The Turkey Tavern with Chef Adam Loo, and he always, always puts on a good feast. You leave full, happy and already planning your next one. We also hosted our own sold out event at Stoked Pizza, and what a fun time that was! A room full of people gathered around good food and even better company is exactly why I love doing what I do.
The Scarecrow Festival in Charlottetown
If you haven't strolled through downtown Charlottetown during the Scarecrow Festival, add it to your list. The team at Discover Charlottetown has always done such a good job creating these fun little scarecrow vignettes throughout the downtown core. It's such a fun way to spend an afternoon, and half the joy is watching the kids and families take part. There's a real sense of community in it that makes my heart so happy.
Fall in the Gardens of Hope
And then there's the Gardens of Hope. Walking through the gardens in the fall is something special, because everything is just doing its thing. The leaves are turning, the plants are dying down, and the hydrangeas start to turn this pretty pink that makes you want to stop and take it all in. There's always a flock of geese flying above too, and it feels like a picture perfect vision of fall any day, in any type of weather this season. If you've only ever visited in the summer, I promise the fall garden has a magic all its own.
Here's to the Season
That's my little fall love list so far, and I have a feeling it's only going to grow as the weeks go on. I'd love to hear what's making your fall feel extra cozy this year, drip me an email! And if you're craving a little more of the heart stuff, I share the deeper, more personal side of life in my Substack. Now if you'll excuse me, there's a cup of tea and a warm fire calling my name.
Lots of love,
Marsha
