As one season winds down, I make a point of savoring every last moment—especially the small pleasures that change with the calendar. Lately we’ve been taking long beach walks with the dogs, soaking up the warm sun, and picking sweet blackberries along the way to share with neighbors. Those little routines make the end of summer feel rich and full.
I’ve always thought fall was my favorite season, but since moving here the beauty of summer in this upper northwest coastal corner of Washington has nearly tied with it. The climate is comfortable for me—I don’t like being too hot—and the flowers keep blooming well into late summer. It’s been a lovely season to enjoy outdoors.
One of my favorite spots in the house is our front porch. It’s a modest, covered porch that’s comfortable in every season, but especially pleasant in summer and early fall. The view changes throughout the day as the sun moves from one side to the other, painting the sky in different colors. It’s become a favorite place for my parents and our pups to linger.
The porch is perfect for morning coffee, an easy lunch, or dinner while watching sailboats and barges drift by. Deer stroll through the neighborhood, and our railing planter boxes add a touch of color and life. We also have an upper deck off the bedroom with a lovely view of the sky, water, and neighborhood, which we use every evening when the light is especially pretty.
Even though we’re still enjoying warm days, I know soon the weather will shift toward rainy, cooler days when coats, hats, and gloves are necessary. Each season here has its own gifts, and we’ve come to love our home in every one of them. In the nearly eleven months we’ve been here, we’ve appreciated the peacefulness, the neighborhood activity, and the nearby wildlife that make this place feel special.
We moved in during October last year, which was hectic, so this coming fall will be our first full autumn living here. I’m looking forward to experiencing the season fully—cozy evenings, layered textures, and the slow change in the landscape.
Although summer is fading and those warm porch evenings are passing, autumn is on the way and I’m already excited. Fall feels cozy and homey in a way that always calls me to nest and personalize our spaces. I’ve started a little early with fall nesting and will be sharing a glimpse of my mantel soon.
Small seasonal touches make a house feel more like home. My book, A Lovely Life, is full of simple ideas for enjoying each season and finding those everyday moments of contentment. I’m also thinking ahead about how to style our railing planter boxes for winter months and the holidays.
What are you doing to savor these last weeks of summer? I love hearing how others slow down and enjoy the season—feel free to share your small rituals and favorite moments.
See more of our Fall Nesting 2022 Series:
Start here >> A Slower Rhythm Through the Seasons
How to slowly transition your home to fall — decorating tips and a pretty fall mood board.
Reversible blankets for sofas, chairs, beds, and more—great layering options for cooler evenings.
Affordable white washable slipcovers for Ikea Ektorp chairs—an easy way to refresh seating for the season.
How to be intentional in planning for fall and the holidays—simple steps to make seasonal preparations more meaningful.
Savoring the last sunsets of summer from our porch—thoughts on enjoying long evenings before the weather changes.
How to decorate a fall mantel using what you already have—practical styling ideas for a cozy focal point.
Vanilla Bourbon Latte: make your morning coffee cozier for fall—easy recipe ideas to add warmth to your routine.
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