I’ve decided it’s autumn. (Erin Jean Warde)

For mental health reasons.

Hello friends,

I write to you from August, a month I can’t believe is here. August 1st was truly a jumpscare for me.

While I know it is still summer, yesterday was overcast, and a cool breeze hit me from the open window, so I have decided that — for mental health reasons — it is now autumn.

If you don’t already know this: autumn is my favorite season, so buckle up. It’s clearly going to be a long one, since I have started it early, lol. I really need this hope, this joy, something to look forward to, after a difficult summer.

Here are a few autumnal joys on my to-do list, ways I’m preparing to observe the season:

• build my “movies to watch in autumn” list

• make a list of “activities” such as visiting a pumpkin patch & decorating my home

• surveying my autumnal candles to see if I’m good to go, or if I need to buy new ones for the season

• pick out a seasonal wreath for my door (I don’t put pumpkins in front of my door because my hallway is completely indoors, so a wreath is important; how else will they know I love autumn?)

• survey my wardrobe & make sure I’ve got all the cozy cute clothes I need; if not, thrifting trip!

• make a list of seasonal foods I’d like to make & enjoy

What are your favorite ways to get excited about autumn, if you’re like me & love it? I’d love to hear autumnal ideas from y’all!

With love & care,

EJW

P.S. I appreciate your patience with me over this summer; I couldn’t have known how hard these months would be. 💛🎃