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September arrives with a gentle sigh, as summer’s warmth slowly yields to the crisp embrace of autumn. The golden light of the early evening dances through the thinning leaves, casting long, soft shadows on the ground.

There’s a familiar scent in the air—earthy, with a hint of wood smoke, and the faint sweetness of ripe apples hanging in orchards. The first cool breezes brush against your skin, a reminder that change is in the air.

As a planner enthusiast, this is the moment I savor—when the bustling energy of summer begins to quiet, and the world seems to pause, just for a moment, in that perfect balance between seasons.

There’s a comforting rhythm to September, a blend of nostalgia and new beginnings, as we prepare to nestle into the cozy embrace of fall. Whether you’re already a devoted planner or just starting to explore the joys of organized living, September offers a unique opportunity to align your life with the natural flow of the changing seasons.

So, as the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, take a moment to breathe in the crisp, invigorating air. Reflect on what the month ahead holds for you. What intentions will you set? What projects will you nurture? What experiences will you cherish?

01// Set Intentions:

As the golden hues of September begin to paint the landscape, it's the perfect time to set intentions that align with the gentle, transitional energy of the month. This is a time to ground yourself, reflect on the bustling energy of summer, and prepare for the quieter, more introspective months ahead.

September Intentions: A Tranquil Transition

Embrace the Shift in Seasons: September is the bridge between summer and fall, a time when nature begins to slow down and prepare for rest. Allow yourself to flow with this natural rhythm by embracing change and finding comfort in the new routines that autumn brings. This might mean adjusting your daily habits, welcoming cooler mornings with a warm cup of tea or coffee and a plush blanket, or starting new rituals that reflect the quieter energy of the season.
Cultivate Mindful Presence: The crispness in the air and the deepening colors of the landscape invite us to be fully present. Set an intention to slow down and savor the small moments—whether it's enjoying a walk through a park with fallen leaves crunching beneath your feet, or taking a few extra minutes each morning to breathe deeply and set the tone for your day. Use this time to reconnect with yourself and the world around you, noticing the subtle changes that mark the shift from summer to autumn.
Nurture Your Well-being: September is a time to refocus on your well-being after the often hectic pace of summer. Set intentions that prioritize both physical and mental health. Consider reestablishing or deepening your self-care routines, such as journaling, practicing yoga, or nourishing your body with seasonal foods. This is the perfect time to introduce cozy, comforting practices that will sustain you through the colder months ahead.

Practice Gratitude for the Harvest: September is often associated with the harvest, a time of abundance and reaping the rewards of past efforts. Reflect on what you’ve accomplished so far this year, and express gratitude for the growth and lessons you've experienced. Consider starting a gratitude journal or taking a few moments each evening to acknowledge the abundance in your life—whether it's the support of loved ones, personal achievements, or simply the beauty of the changing season.

Seek Inspiration in Simplicity: As nature begins to strip away the excess and prepare for winter, let this be a reminder to simplify your own life. Set an intention to find joy in the simple things—whether it’s decluttering your space, simplifying your schedule, or finding contentment in quiet, unhurried moments. September’s gentle pace invites you to pare down and focus on what truly matters, creating a sense of peace and clarity as you move into the final months of the year.

These intentions are not just tasks to check off but gentle reminders to align your inner rhythm with the world around you. By setting these intentions, you create a foundation of calm and purpose that will carry you through the changing seasons with grace and mindfulness.

02// Food:

September’s Seasonal Harvest:

September brings with it a rich array of seasonal produce that captures the essence of late summer and early autumn. This is a time when the earth's bounty is at its peak, offering a beautiful mix of vibrant summer fruits and the heartier vegetables that herald the approach of fall.

In-Season Foods:

Fruits:

Apples: Crisp and sweet, perfect for snacks, baking, or adding a touch of autumn to salads.
Pears: Juicy and aromatic, ideal for poaching, roasting, or simply enjoying fresh.
Grapes: Bursting with flavor, these can be eaten fresh, added to salads, or used in baking.
Plums: Sweet and tart, excellent for baking or making homemade jams.
Figs: Rich and sweet, perfect for desserts or paired with cheese for a simple appetizer.
Blackberries: Juicy and slightly tart, wonderful in desserts or morning smoothies.

Vegetables:

Butternut Squash: Creamy and nutty, great for soups, roasting, or pureeing.
Sweet Potatoes: Earthy and sweet, perfect for roasting, mashing, or baking into fries.
Pumpkin: Versatile and flavorful, ideal for soups, baking, or roasting.
Beets: Earthy and sweet, delicious roasted or in salads.
Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, great for roasting, stews, or raw snacking.
Brussels Sprouts: Nutty and slightly bitter, excellent roasted or sautéed.
Cauliflower: Mild and versatile, great for roasting, mashing, or as a rice substitute.
Kale: Robust and nutrient-dense, perfect for salads, sautéing, or adding to soups.
Leeks: Mild and sweet, great for soups, stews, or sautéing.

Spices and Herbs:

Cinnamon: Warm and sweet, perfect for baking, beverages, or savory dishes.
Nutmeg: Earthy and slightly sweet, ideal for baking, creamy dishes, or spiced drinks.
Cloves: Pungent and warm, excellent in spice blends, baking, or simmered in stews.
Ginger: Spicy and warming, perfect for baking, teas, or savory dishes.
Sage: Earthy and aromatic, great for stuffing, roasting meats, or sautéing with butter.
Rosemary: Piney and fragrant, wonderful for roasting vegetables or meats.
Thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, perfect for soups, stews, or roasting.

Seasonal Recipes:

Main Dish: Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Salad with Warm Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bunch kale, stemmed and chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 apple, thinly sliced

For the Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup apple cider
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
While the squash is roasting, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced by half. Remove from heat and whisk in the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, massage the chopped kale with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt until it softens.
Add the roasted squash, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and apple slices to the kale.
Drizzle with the warm apple cider vinaigrette and toss to combine. Serve immediately, enjoying the warmth of the roasted squash with the crisp freshness of the apple.

Dessert: Spiced Pear and Blackberry Crisp

Ingredients:

4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 cup fresh blackberries
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Topping:

1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, blackberries, lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Toss to coat the fruit evenly.
Transfer the fruit mixture to a baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the fruit mixture.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the fruit is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

03// Activities:

This month is perfect for indulging in outdoor activities that celebrate nature's transformation, as well as cozy indoor pursuits that prepare us for the cooler days ahead.

September Activities for a Cozy, Inspired Month

1. Harvest Moon Viewing: Monday Sept. 16th 2024

September often brings the Harvest Moon, a full moon that appears larger and brighter in the sky. Set aside an evening to admire its glow, perhaps with a cup of spiced tea in hand. Consider gathering some friends or loved ones for a moonlit picnic, where you can enjoy seasonal treats while soaking in the serene beauty of the night sky.

2. Visit a Farmer’s Market:

Early autumn is a bountiful time at local farmers' markets. Take a leisurely stroll through the stalls, savoring the sights and smells of fresh produce, and gather ingredients for a hearty fall meal. This is also a great opportunity to support local farmers and artisans.

3. Scenic Nature Walks:

The weather is perfect for long walks in nature. Whether it's a stroll through a local park or a hike in the woods, immerse yourself in the changing landscape. Look for the first hints of fall colors and breathe in the crisp, clean air. Collect fallen leaves, acorns, and other natural treasures to bring a bit of the outdoors into your home.

4. September Craft Tutorial: DIY Leaf-Printed Napkins

Bring the beauty of autumn leaves into your home with this simple and charming craft. These leaf-printed napkins are perfect for adding a touch of nature to your dining table or for gifting to loved ones.

Materials:

- Plain cotton or linen napkins (white or light-colored)

- Fresh leaves (with distinct veins and shapes)

- Fabric paint (in autumnal colors like gold, orange, red, or brown)

- Small paintbrush or sponge

- Wax paper or scrap paper

- Iron (optional for setting the paint)

Instructions:

1. Gather Leaves: Go for a walk and collect a variety of leaves. Look for leaves with interesting shapes and textures, as these will make the most beautiful prints.

2. Prepare the Workspace: Lay out your napkins on a flat surface, placing wax paper or scrap paper underneath to protect the surface from paint.

3. Apply Paint: Using a small paintbrush or sponge, apply a thin, even layer of fabric paint to the underside of a leaf (where the veins are most prominent).

4. Press the Leaf: Carefully press the painted side of the leaf onto the napkin, applying gentle pressure with your fingers to transfer the paint. You can use a rolling pin or another flat object to ensure even contact.

5. Lift the Leaf: Gently lift the leaf away from the fabric to reveal the print. Repeat with different leaves and colors, arranging them in a pattern or randomly across the napkin.

6. Dry and Set: Allow the paint to dry completely. If desired, set the paint by ironing the napkin on the reverse side according to the fabric paint's instructions.

These napkins will bring a rustic, handmade charm to your fall gatherings and remind you of the beauty of September’s natural offerings.

5. Host a Harvest Dinner:

Invite friends and family over for a harvest-themed dinner, celebrating the flavors of the season. Decorate your table with your leaf-printed napkins, candles, and natural elements like pinecones or small gourds. Serve a menu inspired by September’s bounty, and enjoy the warmth of good food and company.

04// Holiday’s / B-day’s / Celebrations:

September comes with a variety of opportunities to celebrate, honor loved ones, and mark special occasions. From birthdays to cultural observances, September offers a chance to create memorable moments and celebrate the richness of life.

1. Labor Day (First Monday in September):

Celebrate the Last Hurrah of Summer: Labor Day weekend is often considered the unofficial end of summer, making it a perfect time for one last outdoor celebration. Whether you choose to host a barbecue, take a day trip to the beach, or enjoy a picnic in the park, use this holiday to soak up the last of the warm weather and relax before the busy fall season begins.

Reflect on Work-Life Balance: Labor Day is also a time to honor the contributions of workers and consider your own work-life balance. Take a moment to reflect on how you can create a more balanced, fulfilling routine as the new season approaches.

2. Autumn Equinox (Around September 22nd):

Balance and Harmony: The Autumn Equinox, also known as Mabon, marks the moment when day and night are of equal length, symbolizing balance and harmony. It's a wonderful time to reflect on the balance in your life and set intentions for the coming months.

Create a Simple Equinox Ritual: Consider marking the equinox with a personal ritual. Light a candle and spend a few moments in meditation, focusing on gratitude for the summer's abundance and setting intentions for the fall. You might also want to prepare a special meal featuring seasonal foods to honor the changing season.

3. Birthdays and Anniversaries:

Celebrate Loved Ones: If you have family members or friends with September birthdays or anniversaries, now is the time to plan a special celebration. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a small gathering, take the opportunity to make them feel cherished and loved.

Gift Ideas: Consider giving thoughtful, autumn-inspired gifts such as a warm throw blanket, a scented candle in a seasonal fragrance, or a homemade batch of pumpkin spice cookies. These gifts not only show care but also align beautifully with the coziness of the season.

4. Back-to-School Celebrations:

Mark the Start of a New School Year: For those with children, September often signals the beginning of a new school year. This can be a time of excitement and new beginnings, so why not celebrate it with a special tradition? You could host a back-to-school breakfast with everyone’s favorite dishes or create a time capsule filled with items and notes from the start of the year to be opened next June.

Self-Care for Parents: Back-to-school season can be a busy time for parents too. Take a moment to check in with yourself and plan some self-care activities, like a quiet evening with a good book or a relaxing bath after the kids are in bed.

5. Grandparents’ Day (First Sunday after Labor Day):

Honor the Wisdom of the Elders: Grandparents’ Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the older generations in your family. Consider organizing a family gathering where stories and memories can be shared, or spend some quality time with your grandparents, listening to their wisdom and learning more about their lives.

Craft a Handmade Gift: Encourage children to create handmade cards or crafts for their grandparents. Simple projects like hand-painted flower pots or a scrapbook of memories can be both meaningful and heartwarming.

6. Cultural and Local Festivals:

Explore Local Traditions: September is a month rich with cultural and harvest festivals, many of which celebrate the bounty of the season. Check out your local community calendar to find events like harvest fairs, apple festivals, or craft markets. These are perfect opportunities to connect with your community, support local artisans, and enjoy seasonal activities.

Plan a Festival Day: Make a day of it by visiting a local festival, sampling seasonal foods, and perhaps picking up some handcrafted items to decorate your home for fall.

7. Personal Celebrations:

Celebrate Your Own Milestones: September is also a great time to celebrate personal milestones, whether it’s a career achievement, a fitness goal, or simply making it through a challenging period. Take a moment to acknowledge your efforts and reward yourself with something special, like a day off, a small gift, or a fun activity.

Create a Gratitude Jar: Start a gratitude jar for the season. Each day, write down something you’re grateful for and place it in the jar. By the end of the month (or year), you’ll have a beautiful collection of memories and blessings to reflect on.

Planning for Celebrations:

To ensure that none of these special moments are overlooked, take the time to carefully plan them out. Start by noting down any upcoming holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries in your planner. Consider setting aside a few moments each week to brainstorm ideas, make lists, and organize the necessary preparations.

Budget and Gifts: Set a budget for gifts and celebrations, making sure to include everything from party supplies to special meals. Planning ahead can help you avoid last-minute stress and ensure that you’re able to celebrate without overspending.

Time for You: Don’t forget to schedule some downtime for yourself amidst all the festivities. Celebrations can be joyful but also draining, so be sure to balance social events with moments of rest and relaxation.

05// Work:

As September ushers in the first hints of autumn, it also brings a fresh energy that can be harnessed to enhance your professional life. The transition from summer’s relaxed pace to the more structured rhythm of fall offers the perfect opportunity to refocus, set new goals, and cultivate a productive mindset. This month, let’s align our work intentions with the natural shift in seasons, creating a workspace and workflow that fosters growth, creativity, and success.

1. Set Clear Goals for the Month:

Review and Reflect: Begin by reflecting on your achievements and challenges from the previous months. What worked well? What could be improved? Use these insights to set clear, actionable goals for September. Consider focusing on both short-term tasks and long-term projects, ensuring a balanced approach that keeps you motivated and on track.

Prioritize Projects: With a clear vision of what you want to achieve, prioritize your projects based on their importance and deadlines. Break down larger goals into manageable steps, and schedule these tasks into your planner, creating a roadmap that will guide you through the month.

2. Refresh Your Workspace:

Declutter and Organize: As the season changes, take some time to declutter and organize your workspace. Remove any unnecessary items, file away old documents, and create a clean, inspiring environment that promotes focus and creativity. Consider adding a few seasonal touches, such as a small plant, a fall-scented candle, or a cozy throw, to make your workspace more inviting.

Digital Detox: Don’t forget to declutter your digital space as well. Organize your email inbox, clean up your computer desktop, and delete any files or programs you no longer need. A tidy digital workspace can be just as important for your productivity as a physical one.

3. Embrace the Season’s Rhythms:

Align Your Workflow with Nature: As the days grow shorter, consider adjusting your work routine to align with the natural rhythms of the season. Take advantage of the morning light by starting your day earlier, and incorporate breaks that allow you to enjoy the changing scenery outside. This can help you stay energized and connected to the world around you, even during busy workdays.

Balance Productivity with Self-Care: While it’s important to stay productive, it’s equally crucial to maintain a balance between work and self-care. Schedule regular breaks to stretch, breathe, and recharge. You might even want to incorporate a brief walk outside during your lunch break to clear your mind and refocus for the afternoon.

4. Networking and Collaboration:

Reconnect with Colleagues: September is a great time to reconnect with colleagues and professional contacts after the summer. Reach out to schedule a coffee meeting, attend a networking event, or participate in an online workshop. These interactions can provide new insights, spark creativity, and open up opportunities for collaboration.

Collaborative Projects: If you’ve been working independently, consider identifying opportunities for collaboration. Partnering with others can bring fresh perspectives to your projects and help you achieve your goals more efficiently. Look for team-building activities or joint ventures that align with your professional objectives.

5. Focus on Professional Development:

Invest in Learning: With the back-to-school spirit in the air, September is a perfect month to invest in your own professional development. Whether it’s taking an online course, attending a workshop, or reading a book related to your field, commit to expanding your knowledge and skills. This not only enhances your expertise but also keeps you motivated and engaged in your work.

Set a Learning Goal: Choose a specific area you’d like to improve or learn more about this month. It could be mastering a new software tool, improving your communication skills, or exploring a new industry trend. Set aside time each week to work on this goal, and track your progress to stay motivated.

6. Plan for Q4 Success:

Strategize for the End of the Year: September is an ideal time to start planning for the fourth quarter of the year. Review your annual goals and assess where you stand. What do you need to accomplish before the year ends? Use this month to create a strategy that will help you finish the year strong.

Launch New Initiatives: If you’re considering launching a new project, product, or campaign, now is the time to start planning. With the holiday season approaching, September provides a window of opportunity to lay the groundwork, ensuring that your initiatives are well-prepared and set up for success.

7. Celebrate Small Wins:

As you move through the month, don’t forget to celebrate your small wins. Whether it’s completing a project, meeting a deadline, or learning something new, take a moment to acknowledge your progress. Celebrating these achievements, no matter how small, helps build momentum and keeps you motivated to tackle the next challenge.

8. Reflect and Adjust:

End-of-Month Review: As September draws to a close, schedule some time to reflect on your accomplishments and any areas where you fell short. Use this review to adjust your goals and strategies for the next month. This ongoing process of reflection and adjustment ensures continuous improvement and growth in your professional life.

06// Personal Intentions: Journal Prompts & Meditation Themes

To help us transition from the energetic vibes of summer to the quieter, more introspective mood of autumn, engage in self-care practices that nourish your mind, body, and spirit.

Journal Prompts:

Reflect on Growth: "What have I learned about myself over the past few months? How have I grown, and how can I continue this growth as the year progresses?"

Seasonal Intentions: "As I move into autumn, what intentions do I want to set for the rest of the year? How can I align my daily actions with these intentions?"

Gratitude for Change: "What changes have occurred in my life recently? How can I embrace these changes with gratitude and grace?"

Embracing the Slowdown: "In what areas of my life can I slow down? How can I create space for rest and reflection in my daily routine?"

Meditation Themes:

Grounding in Nature: Imagine yourself as a tree, deeply rooted in the earth. Visualize the stability and strength of your roots as you feel the connection to the natural world around you. Let this meditation bring you a sense of peace and grounding as the seasons change.

Embracing Change: Focus on the idea of change as a natural and positive force in your life. As you breathe in, imagine welcoming change with open arms; as you exhale, release any resistance or fear. This meditation helps cultivate an attitude of acceptance and flow.

Gratitude for the Harvest: Spend a few moments in stillness, reflecting on all that you have harvested in your life, both literally and metaphorically. This could be the work you’ve accomplished, the relationships you’ve nurtured, or the personal growth you’ve experienced. Let a deep sense of gratitude fill your heart.

By engaging in these activities and self-care practices, you’ll deepen your connection to the rhythms of September, fostering a sense of peace, fulfillment, and readiness for the months ahead.

07// Ritual Bath:

As the cool, crisp evenings of September begin to settle in, there’s no better way to unwind and transition from the bustling energy of August to the more tranquil feelings of September than by indulging in a luxurious ritual bath. This month, let your bath time become a sacred ritual—an opportunity to not only cleanse your body but also to nourish your soul.

1. Create a Cozy Bathing Environment:

Dim the Lights: Start by dimming the lights in your bathroom. You might want to light a few candles or use soft, warm lighting to create a soothing atmosphere. Consider choosing candles with scents that evoke the essence of September, such as sandalwood, vanilla, or cedarwood, to enhance the cozy, autumnal ambiance.

Infuse Seasonal Aromas: Add essential oils or bath salts that resonate with the season. Lavender, eucalyptus, or a blend of cinnamon and orange can evoke the comforting smells of fall. These scents not only help to relax your body but also create a sensory experience that transports you to a serene, autumnal forest.

2. Select Nourishing Bath Ingredients:

Here are a couple of bath recipes that capture the essence of the season, offering relaxation, warmth, and a touch of autumnal magic.

1. Apple Cinnamon Soak: Transport yourself to a cozy orchard with this fragrant bath soak.

Ingredients: 1 cup magnesium flakes, ½ cup baking soda, 1 tablespoon dried apple slices, 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder, a few drops of cinnamon or apple essential oil.
Instructions: Mix the magnesium flakes and baking soda in a bowl. Add the dried apple slices and cinnamon powder, then stir in the essential oil. Pour the mixture into warm bath water and soak in the comforting scents of apple and spice.

2. Herbal Harvest Bath Tea: Brew a soothing bath with this blend of autumnal herbs and flowers.

Ingredients: 1 cup dried chamomile flowers, ½ cup dried calendula petals, ½ cup dried lavender buds, 1 tablespoon dried rosemary, 1 tablespoon dried sage.
Instructions: Mix all the dried herbs and flowers in a bowl. Place the mixture in a muslin bag or tie it up in a piece of cheesecloth. Hang the bag under the running tap as you fill the tub or let it steep in the bathwater for a few minutes before getting in. The calming scents of chamomile, lavender, and rosemary will help you unwind and embrace the peaceful energy of the season.

3. Ritualistic Bathing Practices: (click here to learn more about ritual baths)

Mindful Breathing: As you soak, focus on your breath. Practice deep, mindful breathing—inhale the calming scents, and exhale any tension or stress. This practice helps you to center your thoughts, bringing a sense of peace and clarity that prepares you for the reflective nature of fall.

Visualization Exercise: While bathing, engage in a visualization exercise. Imagine the warmth of the water wrapping around you like a soft, protective blanket, washing away the remnants of summer’s busyness. Picture yourself surrounded by the golden light of the setting September sun, feeling a deep connection to the changing season and the new opportunities it brings.

4. Seasonal Bath Ritual Themes:

Equinox Balance: As the September equinox approaches, focus on balance during your bath. Visualize the equilibrium of day and night, and let this theme guide your intentions—seeking balance in your work, relationships, and self-care practices.

Letting Go: September is also a time of letting go, much like the trees shedding their leaves. During your bath, meditate on what you need to release—whether it’s stress, old habits, or anything else that no longer serves you. Imagine the water carrying these things away, leaving you lighter and more at peace.

Incorporating these thoughtful, seasonal touches into your bath ritual can transform a simple bath into a deeply nourishing experience that aligns with the spirit of September. By taking this time for yourself, you honor the seasonal shift and create space for introspection, renewal, and self-care.

Warmest Regards,

Sarah Voiles