It’s been an ideal October.
The weather has literally been smashing records for being nearly perfect fall weather where I am.
Sunshine pretty much every single day. The leaves have been vibrant with color. The mornings and evenings require a jacket, but the daytimes hover right in the 60s.
It’s been joyful from start to finish, and I feel so appreciative of that fact. I hope your October was just as delightful.
Here’s my joy&tell for October.
P.S. Nothing here is sponsored. Just really loved.
1. Imprint
Sometimes, on the very rare occasion, the ads targeted to you are homers. And Imprint was one of those occasions this month.
The Imprint app is sold as “replace scrolling with microlearning.”
Joining Imprint gives you access to a plethora of courses ranging from communication skills to philosophy to religion to art to most likely whatever you can imagine.
The courses are broken down into really small chunks that allow you to dedicate a smidge of your time to learning something cool.
Highly recommend giving it a go.
2. Noah Kahan
I’m no stranger to the world and music of Noah Kahan.
BUT, this song, it blew my mind.
And I may or may not have listened to it on repeat during a 2.5-hour car ride this month.
I loved it that much.
3. Merlin
Growing up, we always had a birdhouse feeder outside our kitchen window. Cardinals, bluejays and nuthatches would come flying in whether it was snowing or sunny. It was just part of my normal day-to-day in childhood, but looking back…it was one of those memories I cherish.
When my parents retired and moved to their new home, one of the first projects of my dad’s was building a new birdhouse feeder. Guest after guest who come through the doors and sit at the table often are in awe at the birds. At how the Baltimore Orioles really are that orange, how the hummingbirds fly in ‘U’ shape when they are trying to attract mates, and how the evening grosbeak is so stunning.
All this to say, I love birds. They are cool to watch. A lot come and go with the seasons. And, I really do enjoy some birdsong. But I’m far from an ornithophile who trapezes through their nearby Audubon park any chance they get.
However, I was recommended the bird app, Merlin. And it’s been a new favorite of mine.
Free to use and published through Cornell University, it identifies birds by their birdsong or from a picture of them.
I have to say, it makes walks even more fun.
4. Diffusing
Anyone else remember about a decade ago when diffusers and essential oils were all the rage?
Like many trends, they’re rarely talked about anymore.
Yet, something about this month renewed my love for them.
I have a small diffuser now, and it’s a real treat to select which scents I want wafting through my office during the day.
My favorite so far: a combo of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—wonderful for fall.
As we move into November, I also want to try this blend I found on Pinterest.
5. Banana Bread on Repeat
I’ve been on a banana bread baking spree this month. It just feels like such a cozy way to wrap up the night.
May I suggest this recipe? And may I also suggest adding some maple butter and cranberry sauce on top of a toasted slice?
Trust me, it’s delish.
What brought you joy this October?
Joyfully yours,
Claire
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It HAS been a beautiful October!!