The Spirit of Fall

So, it may still be a bazillion degrees outside and august is not quite over yet, but it never fails that at this time of year i cannot help but feel ready to shake off summer and move on to chillier things (like sweaters, crisp cool air and - most importantly - the comforting smells of fall baking). think: pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, apple, and (hey, why not?) a bit of chocolate.

summer: you were lovely, but let's be honest, it's time to cool down.

get in the spirit with these:

• get your hands on some quality apple cider and have a go at these!
• here is a fun Sunday treat to try out.
• these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies sound just about perfect
• this ginger apple torte is making my mouth water, and mmmm gingerbread pancakes for the win!
• this looks just lovely and will get you started early on christmas gifts perhaps and when in doubt, chocolate is always a good idea.

while it may still be sweltering outside there is no reason you can not summon fall to come soon. maybe pick yourself up a new pair of killer boots, crank down the ac, and get those fall smells swirling... and if you don't want to bake, you can always simmer some cinnamon sticks and cloves on the stovetop - a good old family trick. cheers!