Leaves are turning, Pumpkin Spice Lattes are piping hot, and we’re pulling on our tall boots.
PTL, fall is here!
What better way to celebrate the season than with an autumn bucket list? These seven fun ideas will get you in the mood if you aren’t already.
{Free download! Right-click and print out this fun bucketlist to use during October!}
1. Plant tulips
Tulips bloom in the spring, but fall is the time to get them in the ground. Plant bulbs in a sunny spot six to eight weeks before a hard frost is expected.
2. Watch Dan in Real Life
This quirky family rom-com is set against the beautiful fall foliage of Rhode Island. Have friends over and show them that you too are an accomplished maker of pancakes by serving them for supper. Your guests will be singing “Ruthie Pig Face Draper” all the way home. (Rated PG-13)
3. Visit an apple orchard
Nothing feels more like autumn than picking your own apples off the tree, and there are 2,229 orchards sprinkled around the US. (Who knew?) Visit orangepippin.com/orchards to find one near you. Then carry your bushel home and get together with grandma, your favorite neighbor, or a couple friends to teach (or learn) apple pie recipe secrets.
4. Take a prayer hike
Whether you seek out a new park in your area or explore an old favorite, pack up your pooch and hit the trail for some peace and quiet with God in His creation. Try thanking Him with each step.
5. Host a chili cook off
Between football rivalries and hockey brawls, fall brings out the competitor in all of us. Start a new tradition that encourages a little friendly competition. Gather your culinary crew for a chili cook off. Provide the fixings and a prize for the winner.
6. Learn a new skill
The fall coaxes out the inner outdoorswoman who was hiding within all summer. Take advantage of the cool weather and perfect a new open-air skill. Learn how to build a fire or pitch a tent or grill fish to perfection.
7. Make homemade chai
While it’s a delightful alternative to order at your local coffee shop, chai ain’t cheap. Try this recipe out on a crisp day.
Spiced Chai
Serves 4
1 cinnamon stick
4 whole green cardamom pods, smashed
4 whole cloves
1/2 star anise
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 (1-inch) piece ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced
4 whole black peppercorns
3 cups water
2 bags black tea
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar or 2 teaspoons honey (to taste)
1 cup milk or half-and-half
Place cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise, nutmeg, ginger, peppercorns, and water into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Cover, remove from heat, and allow it to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Return pan to the heat and bring to a boil. Add the tea, remove from heat, and let steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, discarding solids. Return liquid to the pot and stir in sugar and milk. Warm over low heat for 1 minute. Pour into cups and serve. Can also be enjoyed iced.
Larissa Arnault is the Marketing Specialist for Lifeway Women. She spends her days writing copy and managing projects for all things related to the Lifeway Women brand. After hours, you can find her trying new recipes in her prized Le Creuset Dutch oven while listening to French music.