As the crisp fall air forces its way into our lives it is the perfect time to reflect on the bounty of the autumn season. The five senses are on full display this time of year as we take in the sights, sounds, smells, touch, and of course the tastes of this special time of year. You are invited along to take a tiny tour through my kitchen to experience the simple fall touches that make life so sweet.
The kitchen truly is the heart of the home. What speaks of cozy fall vibes more than this space where all the senses blend together so beautifully? Currently, apples from our trees are abounding in buckets on our island stools. Thankfully focusing on the abundance of all the apples we have this year helps me to plow through the somewhat tedious task of peeling, chopping, and freezing them for future baking. There is nothing like the smell and taste of homeade applesauce simmering on the stove or apple crisp baking in the oven with cinnamon and cloves to usher in this season.
Mini pumpkins, faux and real, also grace our kitchen each fall. Above the island, hanging from a ladder, sits a cluster of real mini pumpkins. It is such a simple touch that brings the beauty of the outdoors into our home. Similarly, faux pumpkins can be found on the vent shelf above our stove. Finally, freshly milled pumpkin muffins with a drizzle of maple glaze finish out the look.
Also on the vent hood mantle is a simple gather sign positioned in a wall basket and some wheat sprigs in whitewashed mason jars. The wheat is significant to me as I recently have taken up the hobby of baking with freshly milled wheat berries. My family and I really enjoyed all the new, nutritious, delicious baked goods coming out of our kitchen. Keeping the Nutri mill grain mill on my counter at all times is a constant reminder to keep on this path of freshly milled goodness!
Lastly, displayed on the round oak kitchen table, sits an oversized cream-colored bucket with weathered red painted handles. I filled it with faux red mums I bought last year from Hobby Lobby. Lying underneath, it is a brown weathered mirror tray and a red checkered rug. Yes, there is a rug on the table! As mentioned in a previous post, the warmth of the color red is hard to beat. Alongside the table, sits a whitewashed hutch used to store extra dishes etc. It is fun to decorate the top for the seasons. The simplicity of baskets, a lantern, some faux sunflowers and a ceramic turkey gifted from a friend years ago bring the look together.
Last, but not least, is the pantry chalkboard cabinet door. The fall bucket list is a nice visual to remind me of some of the fun activities that make this time of year so special. Lists are a great way, at least for me, to be intentional with my time and not let the season get away from me. Undoubtably, the square boxes will all be checked off by winter.
