At Home in October: Baking, Football & the Comforts of Fall

Between Saturday football games and cooler evenings on the porch, I’ve been easing into that cozy fall rhythm — candles burning, something baking, music playing in the background. My Nest Pumpkin Chai candle has been on repeat; it’s that perfect mix of cinnamon and cardamom that somehow makes the whole house feel warmer. And I’ve basically lived in my new Quince cashmere sweater — soft, simple, and just easy.

Football has definitely taken over our weekends. I’m a third-generation Cal Bear, so blue and gold runs deep around here — though I’ll admit, I’m still figuring out who’s who in the ACC. It’s a bit of a learning curve, and I do miss the old Pac-12 lineups. Luckily, I’ve got another team to root for too — both my girls went to Boulder, so there’s always a Buffs game on somewhere in the house.

Maybe it’s the change in the air, but I’ve been baking more lately — starting with my favorite Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread.  (It’s hands down the best one I’ve ever found). 

And because every baking day deserves a soundtrack, I pulled together a fall playlist called Somewhere Between Football and Pumpkin Bread — a mix that feels just right for slow mornings, cozy evenings, and everything in between.