It’s October 1st! Every season, I always daydream of all the things I want to do. Fall is my absolute favorite, so I thought I would create a checklist of all the things I want to do this year! What else should I add to it?

Cook Seasonally

I love to cook with the seasons and let what is fresh dictate my meals. This time of year, farmer’s markets are bountiful with apples, pears, squash, and brussel sprouts.. My favorite fall meal to make is crispy pork chops with a fig jam reduction. It is easy and delicious! I also made a Fall Salad of butter lettuce, endive, pear, parmesan, candied pecans and a dressing with Apple Cider Vinegar and Maple Syrup. I am planning to do a post How I Shop for Food.

Take a Day Trip

As it starts to get a little cooler in Southern California, I love taking day trips. There are so many incredible places just an hour or two away : Ojai, Santa Barbara, Los Olivos, Palm Springs, Big Sur. It gets less touristy this time of year and its fun to explore new places and old favorites.

Go Apple Picking

The most quintessential New England fall activity is to go apple picking. But there are actually some apple farms close to Los Angeles in Oak Glen. I am determined to take a drive this year and get some apples. I love making apple crisp and I really want to try making apple butter this year.

Refresh Home for Fall

I love to make my home a little more cozy when it comes to the cooler months. A few things I like to do is :

Swap out lighter blankets for a down comforter. I also like to put a flannel bottom sheet on my bed.
Add Candles. I don’t light candles in the summer that often, but come September I like to have all my candles out. I am currently loving the Jenni Kayne Ash Matte Glass Candle.
Prep the Fireplace. I like to give my fireplace a good clean and restock any firewood and kindling.
Replace linen pillows with velvet ones.

Closet Clean-out

Cleaning out your closet is a liberating experience. I like to do it a few times a year. It makes getting dressed easier, plus you can see if there is anything you are missing. I like to donate my clothes to the goodwill.

Invest in Fall Wardrobe Items

Fall is the best time to add a few new pieces to your wardrobe. Maybe its a new pair of jeans, a cashmere sweater, or a blazer. I have my eyes on these booties.

Change up Skincare Routine

As it gets cooler, its nice to incorporate some more moisturizing formulas into your skincare routine. I have been using the Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum every night (review tomorrow.) I like to use a hyaluronic acid serum in the day and an oil for when skin feels really dry. I like the Dr. Nigma Hydrating and Plumping Serum #1 and the Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Oil.

Autumn Checklist