The Summer to Fall Transition

The Summer to Fall Transition

Technically, summer is not over, and trust me, I will squeeze every last drop I can from it. Here in the Northeast, it always feels like a tug of war between summer and fall. Summer lingers with gorgeous, warm days and cool nights. The sun begins its descent earlier, and the light shines through the windows beautifully, but with a noticeable difference in angle and warmth. Some of my favorite beach days have actually been in September, with ocean temperatures still perfect for a late summer swim. Yet there’s also the pull of fall, New England’s time to shine. Cozy season, sweater weather, and dare I say…pumpkin?

 A Season That Holds Both

September might be my favorite month because of the way it holds two seasons so close together. During the summer’s end, we can enjoy the last cones from our local ice cream spots while simultaneously dreaming about soups made with fresh veggies from the farmer’s market, hello corn chowder or tomato bisque. There’s a rhythm to this time of year that feels like a reset. The longer shadows in the evenings and the gentle reminder that change can be both grounding and energizing. For me, fall is like a quiet new year, a time when fresh ideas and routines come into focus.

 Leaning Into Cozy Rituals

I find myself reaching for softer textures, adding a blanket to the couch, and swapping sandals for cozy socks. Even the scents in the air change: salt air mixed with crisp leaves, candles flickering in the kitchen, and the comforting aroma of a sweet treat baking in the oven. I always transition from work by winding down with the glow of a candle and a mug of warm tea with a squeeze of lemon. These small, simple rituals make the change in season feel intentional and grounding. This is also the time I like to bring a little refresh into my home, fresh tea towels in the kitchen, a new journal for capturing everyday moments, or postcards and photographs that celebrate the beauty of the season. Little touches, but ones that make home feel especially cozy.

 How do you like to mark this transition in time? Do you lean into the last summer sunsets, or are you already pulling out sweaters and lighting candles? I’d love to hear your favorite rituals.  I am always on the lookout for new inspiration.