Hello, dear readers. Perhaps you are here because you, like me, adore this season above all others. Or perhaps you are one of those that dread the arrival of the cold, dark days. Whatever your reason, I hope I can help you find ways to enjoy this time of year. The joy of the harvest can echo hollow when there is not much to go around. But there are many lovely things you can do without parting with much of your treasure hoard. And dare I say, that this way is much more fun? You may view more complete tutorials and get to know Miss Pumpkin a bit better in this film.
Foraged Autumn Wreath
Forging is best done with a friend. No matter what sort of area you live in, it’s easy to find something that belongs to the Earth (though I highly recommend escaping to the woods if you have the means). We were able to find these beautiful acorns just along the sidewalk! We gathered some twigs and my friend graciously provided pinecones from her yard. That evening we crafted our own autumn wreaths. I chose some old, bare, spikey evergreen branches with the idea of making something witchy. My friend twisted more supple twigs into a circle tied with twine. Using a hot glue gun, we attached our earthy baubles. These feel much homier than store-bought wreaths.
Foraged Autumn Garland
I had plenty of leftover acorns and pinecones so I decided to make some garland to hang over my hearth. I simply strung a length of cotton thread around the tops and made sure there was a little length on each side (any string, yarn or twine will do). I’ll probably keep this up year-round.
Apple Picking
The next autumn activity does have a monetary cost, but as it supports local farmers, it’s a good place to put into if you are willing to pay for a fall activity. If you have the means, I highly recommend visiting a local farm and participating in the harvest. I try to go apple picking every year if I can. It’s worthwhile to take a moment and appreciate where our food comes from, and the work that goes into it. Plus, farms are beautiful to explore and full of surprises!
Miss Pumpkin
A few years ago, I dreamed up Miss Pumpkin, a sort of personification of Autumn Spirit. Painting her portrait reminds me that there is so much to be thankful for as we reap the alms of the Earth. Apples, pumpkins, the flurry of colour in the trees. Crisp air, the smell of crunchy leaves, a warm sweater, a steaming cup of tea. Our loved ones. Even and especially if times are gloomy for you right now, I hope you can find time to rest and enjoy all of the wonderful things you already have.
from the library of Mrs. Moon 