Spring Journals & Accessories
Self-preservation and nurturing are essential if we are to bloom where we are meant to grow.
Journal writing is a powerful tool for discovering yourself, solving problems, managing goals, and documenting our lives over time. It’s a time where you become—to think, feel, reflect, discover, grow, and dream. It allows you to gather yourself, take a step back, and see how you’ve grown.
Spring offers new beginnings. Fresh sprouts appear overnight, and flower buds unfurl after each gentle rain. These journals celebrate the season while creating space to listen to the quiet whispers within—and allow them to live on paper, rather than creating chaos in the mind.
6-pack floral spiral notebooks with floral pens
6 Pack of Spiral Floral Notebooks with Floral Pens
These notebooks are perfect for spring journaling. The set of six makes it easy to explore different moods, thoughts, or topics—or simply keep a steady habit of writing all season long.
The matching floral pens add a small touch of beauty to the process. Together, the journaling experience is both calming and complete—making this set a thoughtful gift as well.
Pink floral sticker for journaling
Pink Floral Stickers for Journaling
These pink floral stickers turn journaling into something more creative and soothing. Add a single bloom to a page or fill a few to create your own little garden.
They’re a gentle way to make your journal feel personal, inviting, and uniquely yours.
Floral corduroy tote bag
I love this tote. The floral pattern is just colorful enough to pair beautifully with spring and summer outfits without feeling overwhelming.
It’s perfect for carrying your journaling supplies, a good book, your water bottle, and everything you need for a refreshing trip to the park. It also works wonderfully for quick grocery trips or peaceful library visits—simple, practical, and lovely.
Blue spring floral journal with ribbon bookmark
This journal is another sweet spring find. The soft blue tones and delicate butterflies make it just as fitting for summer as it is for spring.
The ribbon bookmarks make it easy to hold your place and return whenever you’re ready, while the blank pages wait patiently for your words to arrive. The elastic pen holder is a thoughtful detail that ensures your pen is always right where you need it.
Blue floral journaling stickers
Blue Floral Journaling Stickers
To carry the blue spring floral theme a little further, these stickers add a gentle touch of creativity to your journal pages.
Use them to highlight a single moment or create an entire page that feels like a quiet touch of spring within your journal.
Blue floral corduroy tote bag with matching pouch
Blue Floral Corduroy Tote Bag with Makeup Pouch
Another adorable tote—but this one includes a matching pouch, perfect for holding makeup, a wallet, or the small essentials that tend to get lost at the bottom of your bag.
The blue floral print pairs effortlessly with the journal, creating a cohesive and calming set. An everyday tote that looks great with your favorite pair of jeans.
Cream & sage green aesthetic spiral bound floral journals
Two Aesthetic Spiral Bound Floral Journals
A simple pair of journals that feel calm and quietly beautiful. The cream and sage tones compliment each other effortlessly, while the gold embossing adds just enough detail to keep them refined without feeling overdone.
They’re perfect for those who prefer something minimal—soft, neutral, and easy to return to day after day.
Green & cream floral journaling stickers
Green and Cream Colored Floral Journaling Stickers
These stickers carry the soft green and cream palette throughout your journaling, tying everything together in a subtle and cohesive way.
They’re perfect for adding a gentle creative touch that feels calm, grounded, and quietly expressive.
Set of 12 ballpoint pens with soft gel grips
Set of 12 Ball Point Pens with Gel Grips
I own these pens and truly love them. The soft gel grips make them incredibly comfortable to write with for extended periods. No cramping, no pressure from holding them too tightly.
They glide smoothly across the page and feel more consistent than other gel pens I’ve used, with no ink leaks or interrruptions. The variety of colors lets you choose softer tones or brighter shades depending on your mood, making them just as enjoyable as they are reliable.
Vintage-inspired floral journal
This journal brings a playful, vintage charm with its wavy green leaves and vibrant mix of florals. It leans a little more bold and expressive—perfect for those who enjoy something with personality.
The ribbon bookmarks add an unexpected detail, with one featuring a denim blue and white strip that gives it a slightly nostalgic feel. It’s fun, a little groovy, and full of character.
Purple floral journaling stickers
Playing off of the purple tones in the journal above, these stickers bring a soft, creative energy to your pages.
Journaling doesnt have to be centered around writing—sometimes it’s about slowing down, creating something beautiful, and letting yourself unwind. Adding stickers can turn a simple page into a small moment of self-expression.
And honestly…we’re never too old for stickers.
Warm-toned wildflower journal
For this final journal, I wanted to include something with a warmer, vintage-inspired palette. The rust, orange, and soft pink florals give it a cozy, sun-washed feel that stands apart from the softer neutrals and cool tones above.
It’s a lovely reminder that our moods shift with the seasons—and even from day to day. Some days feel bright and vibrant, others more quiet and muted, and having options like this lets your journal reflect exactly who you are.
7-piece spring floral ballpoint pen set with refills
7 Piece Spring Floral Ball Point Pens
This 7-piece set of floral pens brings a little shimmer and brightness to your writing. Each pen has its own unique design, making even the smallest notes feel a bit more special.
The included refills mean they’ll last throughout the season, and they make a lovely gift—whether you keep a few for yourself or share them with someone who enjoys the little details as much as you do.
As we step into this spring season, take time to care for your mental well-being. Journal the good, the heavy, the dreams, the goals, and the quiet moments in between.
Growth isn’t always loud—sometimes it’s found in the small, steady ways we return to ourselves. And there’s something gentle about putting it all onto paper.
Personal growth and self-love look good on everyone.
Thank you for taking the time to read this list, and happy spring!
Pretty In Pink Spring Outfit
Treat yourself to a spring outfit that makes you feel just as good as you look.
This fresh look is a perfect mood booster to wear as we eagerly await the arrival of warmer mornings.
“There is no such thing as too many books” Grey crewneck sweatshirt
For any book lover that lives by this phrase, this sweatshirt is perfect in both looks and functionality during this transition into spring. The colors within the floral detail are perfect for spring and delicate enough to not feel overwhelming.
Sidefeel Womens Wide Leg High Waisted Denim Stretch Pants
These pink denim pants compliment the sweatshirt and pull the outfit together in a polished way that’s not too bold or basic. The wide leg keeps you on trend while the stretch allows them to fit perfectly—no digging in or restricting your movements.
Reebok Womens Club C Platform Tennis Shoes
These Reebok’s are the perfect accent to balance out the light grey sweatshirt and the pink denim pants. White sneakers are always a fresh look for spring and the splash of pink keeps everything cohesive. The additional height helps add the illusion of longer legs while providing a little boost for those of us with a shorter inseam length.
Vintage Necklace Van Gogh Flower Style Necklace
I truly adore this necklace! This is such a unique necklace that adds interest to any outfit you choose this spring and summer. The green background brings out the green leaves on the sweatshirt that keeps the floral theme cohesive without over doing it on the pink color. This necklace also pairs beautifully with the earrings I chose for this outfit.
These adorable dangling floral earrings tie everything together in a fun and unique way. They match the floral colors on the tote and bring the color palette together in a way that’s perfect for summer. You can pull your up with one of the pink satin scrunchies in this list, so they catch the light—creating movement, interest, and light-hearted fun.
Miabella 18k Gold Plated Sterling Silver Mesh Link Bracelet
A timeless classic that can be worn with casual, work, and formal wear. This bracelet elevates the outfit in a way that’s grown up and a bit sophisticated. It can be worn alone or as a part of a stack. The 18k gold plating makes it that rich golden yellow that looks more expensive than it is as well.
6-Pack Floral Spiral Notebooks With Ballpoint Pen Set
This notebook and pen set is perfect for anyone that juggles school and work, family and work, or loves writing and journaling. They match the tote well and keep you organized while looking and feeling good. The matching pens are a great bonus that completes your writing needs in a lovely seasonal way too.
A corduroy tote that evokes the spring season in all of its beauty. It’s large enough to carry multiple notebooks, pens, books, your water bottle, a wallet, and all of the little essentials. The colors are perfect for spring and summer making it a practical and pretty purchase. It matches the florals on the sweatshirt beautifully keeping the entire outfit cohesive but not overwhelming.
Floral Cold Coffee Glass With Bamboo Lid and Straw
I was pleasantly surprised to find this floral glass. It’s another perfect floral match for this outfit but is also useful for both spring and summer. The bamboo lid adds a natural touch that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but extremely helpful in keeping nature out of your iced coffee. It comes with a straw and a straw cleaner so it’s truly a complete set.
Lotus Pink Silk Scrunchies Set of 3
We can never have enough scrunchies. This set of three allows you to always have one on hand—one in your car, one at home, and one in your bag. The silk is gentle on hair, looks elegant, and elevates any basic outfit beautifully.
Summer Fridays Pink Sugar Tinted Lip Butter Balm
Lastly, the perfect lip balm with a sweet pink tint to complete your look. I use three different brands of lip balm and this is one of the two I wear outside of the house. The texture is truly perfect—smooth, never sticky, long lasting, true to color, and they come in a variety of seasonal scents.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this “Pretty in Pink” look for spring. If you or someone you know would enjoy any of these items, save this post for later or feel free to share it.
Thanks for stopping by!
15 Children’s Books To Read On Spring Break
Spring break is the perfect time for family adventures—whether you’re heading out on a big trip or simply enjoying a few slower days together. A small stack of books can make traveling with children so much easier, giving them something fun to look forward to along the way. For younger readers especially, stories about vacations and springtime adventures can help ease travel jitters by showing familiar characters experiencing the excitement of a trip. From sweet picture books to activity-filled boredom busters, these books are wonderful companions for spring break journeys both near and far.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s First Spring by; Eric Carle
Ages: Baby - 3
Eric Carle’s beloved caterpillar returns to explore the wonders of springtime. With bright illustrations and simple storytelling, this book gently introduces little readers to the season of blooming flowers, buzzing bees, and fresh beginnings—perfect for toddlers getting excited about spring adventures.
Where Do Diggers Take Vacation? By; Brianna Caplan Sayres
Ages 2-3
Construction vehicles take a well-deserved break in this playful rhyming story. Little readers who love trucks and diggers will enjoy imagining where these hardworking machines go when it’s time for a vacation.
Family Trip with Peppa Pig by: Scholastic
Ages: 3-5
Peppa and her family set off on a fun trip together, sharing all the excitement of traveling somewhere new. For younger children especially, stories like this can help ease travel nerves by showing familiar characters enjoying the journey.
Maisy Goes On Vacation by; Lucy Cousins
Ages 1-4
Maisy packs her suitcase and heads off for a delightful vacation adventure. This gentle story intoduces young readers to the idea of traveling, making it a comforting choice for toddlers preparing for their own trip.
Ages 3-6
Packed with puzzels, games, and activities, this Highlights book is perfect for keeping little minds busy on the road or in the air. It’s a great companion for travel days when kids need something engaging between stops.
The Adventure of Busie Ladygo Spring Break by; Gregory E Morris & Ashlyn E Morris
Ages 5-12
Busie sets off on a cheerful spring adventure filled with exploration and discovery. Young readers will enjoy following Busie’s journey while imagining their own seasonal travels with their family.
Bad Kitty Goes On Vacation (Graphic Novel) by; Nick Bruel
Ages 6-8
Bad Kitty is back—and this time she’s heading on vacation! With plenty of humor and silly antics, this book is perfect for kids who enjoy laugh-out-loud stories during long car rides or quiet travel moments.
I Spy Spring by; FreeWill Press
Ages 3-10
This interactive book invites children to search for colorful springtime objects hidden throughout the pages. It’s a wonderful quiet activity that helps pass time during travel while keeping curious minds engaged.
The Berenstain Bears Go on Vacation by; Stan & Mike Berenstain
Ages 4-8
Brother and Sister Bear experience all the excitement and surprises that come with family vacations. This classic Berenstain Bears story helps children understand what traveling can look like—from packing bags to enjoying new places.
Vacation Fun Mad Libs by; Roger Price, Leonard Stern, Mad Libs
Ages 7-10
Kids can create their own silly vacation stories with this playful Mad Libs activity book. It’s a perfect way to encourage creativity and laughter while passing time during travel.
No Screen, No Problem: Spring Activity Book by; Verbose Vic
Ages 8-12
This activity book offers plenty of puzzles, games, and creative challenges designed to keep kids entertained without screens. It’s a helpful option for parents looking for quiet, engaging travel activities.
Brain Games: Big Book of Boredom Busters by; Stephanie Warren Drimmer
Ages 8-12
Packed with brain teasers, puzzles, and creative challenges, this book is ideal for curious kids who love a mental challenge. It’s a great way to turn travel time into fun problem-solving adventures.
Sweet Valley High Spring Break (Super Edition) by; Francine Pascal
Ages 12+
Older kids and teens can enjoy a classic spring break story with the Sweet Valley High crew. This longer read is perfect for relaxing moments during travel when readers want to settle into a fun chapter book.
How to Draw Spring Thing For Kids by; Alli Koch
Ages 7-12
From flowers to butterflies to baby animals, this drawing guide encourages kids to get creative with simple step-by-step instructions. It’s a wonderful quiet activity for long trips.
Would You Rather Book For Kids by; Stephen J. Ellis
Ages 7-13
Filled with silly and imaginative “Would You Rather” questions, this book sparks laughter and conversation. It’s perfect for family road trips or waiting moments during travel.
Travel days with kids are always a little smoother when there’s a good book close at hand. Whether you’re packing for a road trip, plane ride, or a quiet afternoon during spring break, these stories and activity books can help keep young travelers entertained and inspired. If you found this list helpful, feel free to save it for later or share it with another family getting ready for their own spring adventure. Happy spring and safe travels!
15 Fresh Books to Read This Spring Break
Winter asks us to endure.
Spring invites us to open the door.
Before the bags are packed and the sunscreen is uncapped, I like to carve out a quiet interlude—a book tucked into my tote, a story that lets the shoulders drop and the breath deepen. Not to escape my life, but to soften it.
Spring Break reading, for me, is sun-drenched and transportive. It carries warmth, but not noise. It offers hope, even if that hope arrives gently—in the turning of a season, in the warm returning gently, in a landscape coming back to life.
These are the books I’d bring into that light. Stories that feel like warmth on skin after months of cold wind. Stories that remind us to blossom—even if it looks different than we expected.
A lonely caseworker is sent to evaluate a mysterious orphanage filled with magical children on a distant island. What begins as an assignment slowly becomes something far more personal as he discovers belonging, acceptance, and unexpected love. It’s whimsical, warm, and quietly hopeful—like salt air and chosen family. An emotionally satisfying read that feels like stepping into sunlight after a long winter.
Valancy Stirling has spent her life quietly following the rules and pleasing everyone around her. When a shocking diagnosis changes her sense of time, she begins to make bold choices for the first time in her life. The result is a gentle but powerful story about courage, freedom, and choosing one’s own happiness. It feels like spring rebellion in book form—soft, surprising, and deeply satisfying.
Remarkably Bright Creature by; Shelby Van Pelt
After the death of her husband, Tova Sullivan finds companionship in an unlikely place while working the night shift at a small-town aquarium. There she forms an unexpected connection with Marcellus, a remarkably perceptive octopus who may know more about her life than anyone realizes. The story blends quiet humor, grief, and healing with surprising tenderness. It’s a warm, hopeful read about connection and the strange ways friendship finds us.
When Mary Lennox arrives at her uncle’s lonely Yorkshire estate, she discovers a hidden garden that has been locked away for years. As she begins to care for it, the garden slowly awakens—bringing life back to both the land and the people around her. This beloved classic is filled with themes of renewal, friendship, and the healing power of nature. It’s perhaps the most perfect literary companion to the arrival of spring.
Jean Perdu runs a floating bookshop on the Seine, prescribing novels to heal the hearts of his customers. When a long-hidden letter from the past resurfaces, he sets off on a journey through France in search of closure. The novel blends travel, literature, and emotional healing with a gentle, reflective tone. It feels like drifting down a sunlit river with a stack of beautiful books.
A.J. Fikry is a grumpy bookstore owner whose life has quietly fallen apart. When an unexpected visitor arrives in his shop, everything begins to change in surprising and tender ways. This short, literary novel celebrates books, second chances, and the quiet ways lives intertwine. It’s a thoughtful and uplifting read that can easily be finished over a long spring weekend.
Set during a languid Italian summer, this novel captures the intense awakening of first love between a teenage boy and a visiting scholar. The story unfolds slowly, filled with sunlight, longing, and the vivid sensations of youth. Aciman’s writing is deeply sensory, immersing readers in heat, music, fruit trees, and fleeting moments. It’s a reflective, atmospheric read that lingers long after the final page.
A mysterious circus appears without warning, opening only at night and filled with impossible wonders. Behind the scenes, two young magicians are locked in a secret competition that will shape both of their destines. The novel is lush, imaginative, and steeped in atmosphere rather than speed. It’s perfect for readers who want to disappear into something magical and dreamlike.
Four very different women escape their ordinary lives by renting a small Italian castle for the month of April. Surrounded by sunshine, gardens, and sea air, each woman begins to rediscover joy and possibly. The story is light, charming, and quietly transformative. It’s a book about women blooming again in the warmth of spring.
This lyrical retelling of Greek mythology follows Circe, the misunderstood witch of ancient legend. Banished to a remote island, she discovers her own strength while crossing paths with gods, monsters, and heroes. Madeline Miller’s writing blends myth, solitude, and feminine resilience into a deeply immersive story. It’s mythic, powerful, and surprisingly accessible.
Santiago, a young shepherd, sets out on a journey across the desert in search of a hidden treasure. Along the way he encounters teachers, omens, and quiet moments that reveal deeper truths about destiny and purpose. Coelho’s story is simple, philosophical, and deeply reflective. It’s a wonderful “reset” book when you want something short that leaves you thinking long after you’ve finished it.
Set on a small Nordic island, this quiet novel follows the tender relationship between a young girl and her wise grandmother. Through small daily moments—storms, shells, sunlight, and conversation—the two navigate life’s joys and sorrows together. The chapters are short, thoughtful, and filled with gentle observation. It’s a peaceful book that feels like sitting in warm sunlight beside the sea.
Two writers with completely different styles find themselves spending the summer in neighboring beach houses. In an effort to break through their creative blocks, they challenge each other to swap genres and write something entirely new. What begins as a clever literary experiment slowly turns into something deeper and more personal. It’s witty, thoughtful, and a perfect balance of romance and emotional depth.
After a disastrous wedding leaves an entire party sick with food poisoning, two sworn enemies unexpectedly end up taking a luxury honeymoon trip together. Forced proximity quickly leads to hilarious misunderstandings, awkward moments, and surprising chemistry. The story is fast-paced, playful, and filled with vacation energy. It’s pure spring break fun with plenty of laughs along the way.
Told through letters, this charming novel follows a writer who forms an unexpected friendship with a group of readers on the island of Guernsey after World War II. Through their correspondence, the story reveals how books helped a community survive hardship and rebuild their lives. The tone is gentle, warm, and deeply human. It’s a comforting reminder of the way stories bring people together.
If you’re gathering books for a quiet spring break afternoon, I hope this list offers a few stories that feel like sunshine returning after winter. You might save this list for later or share it with a fellow reader who’s ready for something fresh and hopeful this season. Happy reading, and happy spring!
The Seasons of Our Lives
As I sat in the car watching the rain gather on the windshield, the squirrels returning outdoors, digging through soil for treasures they buried long ago. I thought of how the trees created their food and provide shelter from brutal weather conditions. Nature mothers wildlife in ways that keep them at peace—it’s really no different from how nature can provide for us, if we simply slow down to take notice.
Spring Blossoms & Sprouts
Life has seasons that beautifully mirror nature’s own. Spring is a season full of new life. Things sprout and bloom from dawn till dusk. Beautiful blooms unfurl and intriguing sprouts reveal themselves. Seeds are planted with no guarantee of being a good seed—one that grows. And, some seeds we weren’t even aware of their existence—because nature planted them.
It can be difficult, even impossible at times to fully take notice and feel the beauty around us. The interesting sprouts offering new growth can go unnoticed.
We get caught up gathering bouquets as haphazardly as puddles gather rain—collecting what we had time to notice, the energy to gather, or what our eyes found beautiful. Only when we pause to reflect do we notice the details of our boutique and realize we picked flowers that don’t belong, or ones we know nothing about. And that’s okay. The ultimate goal is to grow.
Before long, the quiet sprouts of spring stretch toward the bright abundance of summer.
Summer Sunny Skies
Summer brings us moments of blissful sunshine. A time when our skin is free to feel the kiss of the sun and a breeze that feels like silk. Everything is alive and thriving. The dull grey is replaced with bright, bold color. Local pools are alive with kids splashing, teens laughing, and adults lounging. Communities gather to celebrate freedom and fun. Kids and animals play tag. Fireflies put on a golden light show as they waltz through the air at dusk.
Life is as sparkling as the fireworks on the Fourth of July. Mother nature is showing off.
Life brings us moments that can stretch on for long periods of time that are blissful, bright, energetic, and alive in ways that make us thrive. It’s important to bask in these moments like a turtle basking on a sun-warmed log. Hold these moments in the front of your mind so they carry you through brutal storms—like a lantern glowing on a front porch that guides you home in the dark.
Yet even the brightest summers eventually soften into autumn.
Feel Good Fall
Autumn brings change. The skies take on moody hues, leaves go from bright green to shades of brown, orange, and red. The last of the crops are harvested, leaving the landscape bare. Autumn apples change form into a canned treasures, extending their life and nourishing you well beyond their season. Animals shift from casual grazing to hurried gathering. Once-thriving plants and animals shift their rhythms to prepare for the changes yet to come.
As the colors fade from warm and cozy to grey and spiritless, we anticipate the arrival of brutal, hostile, frigidness. We know it’s coming and we try to make it easier this time by remembering what we forgot, learning from mistakes and preparing more wisely than the year before.
Nature never questions herself—she adapts. Change is a necessary part of life in all forms. To fight against change is to choose to be left behind while everything around grows and you become lost in the forest. You can protest all you want—nature will still do what she must to thrive.
And once the harvest is gathered, winter quietly takes the stage.
Wicked Winter
It begins with family gatherings, giving thanks, celebrating traditions and being generous. We move into creating magic in our homes, gifting our most special, handmade creations, and ensuring our loved ones feel our love by taking the time to pick gifts with meaning and purpose.
It’s easy to overextend ourselves by pouring ourselves out to everyone in the hope they feel special and loved. This season can be draining, yet it shimmers beautifully. This shimmer fades—it was gifted, and never truly belonged to us.
Once the magic is packed up, the wickedness blows in, temperatures drop, the shimmer isn’t as noticeable since it was gifted away. The sky is thick with grey, the world has gone silent, people and animals are hidden, darkness visits more than the light. Its wind stings the skin, a violent force fighting us against our goals. It can feel as though nature has turned on us, leaving the world dark, lonely, and wicked.
This is when it’s important to remember this is a time to replenish, restore, and nurture ourselves. Life can feel like it’s eating you down to the bone so take the time to notice how nature strips trees down to their bones—they’re not dying or dead, they’re working on themselves internally and underground, where it’s unseen by the outside world. At times we also need to retreat from the world in order to work on ourselves internally. Trees aren’t ashamed when their beauty is stripped away—they simply endure and return strong once again. Resilience is mandatory.
As you live out each day, try to notice nature and compare its rhythms to your own. You’ll find we have more in common than we realize—the way our lives change, the way our needs change, what we give, what we receive, and what we must provide for ourselves in order to truly thrive rather than just simply survive.
Be kind to yourself, be patient as you grow, and take time to stop and smell the roses.
Time is precious, and by choosing to spend a little of it in this quiet corner of the internet, you’ve chosen to sit on my front porch and reflect. I hope you’ve enjoyed a moment of peace and come back again soon!
Affordable Spring Skincare Products For 40+
It takes nurturing for blossoms to bloom, so why not do the same for yourself?
I invite you to take the time today to love yourself.
You deserve it.
My Spring Routine at a Glance
AM
Gentle Cleanse (CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser)
Thayers Milky Toner
TruSkin Vitamin C
Drunk Elephant Protini
Medicube Jelly (light layer)
Sunscreen (CeraVe Tinted or Shiseido Stick)
PM
Oil Cleanse (CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil)
Gentle Clense
Thayers Milky Toner
Paula’s Choice BHA (2x weekly only)
Drunk Elephant + Nivea or Vanicream
Medicube Jelly to seal
With Spring and Spring Break almost within reach, I’d like to share the affordable skincare products I use daily to welcome this budding season. These are gentle staples that truly serve those of us living in the Midwest, caring for skin that has seen forty years and still intends to bloom.
I want simple. I want what I know works. I want to be able to find it - and yes…I want a bargain. The products in this list can all be picked up at Walmart, Amazon, and two at Ulta or Sephora.
It has been brutally cold, windy, and dry, so these products help combat those conditions in a way that lets me step into Spring looking refreshed and feeling bonito. If you live in a more humid climate or tend to have oily skin, my exact formulations may not be your perfect match - but each of these brands offers options suited to different skin types as well.
Face Care
CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
This oil cleanser is great for dry skin and removes stubborn pigments from long-wear makeup with ease. As one of your double cleansers it doesn’t dry skin out in the dry winters. All makeup is removed without over drying your skin.
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
A cleanser my dermatologist approved and one that can be recommend for men, women, tweeens, and teens. It’s nice to have something simple, affordable, easily accessible, and cleanses without being harsh or drying.
Medicube Zero Pore Facial Pads
I saw this product trending but wasn’t convinced it would be more beneficial than the popular brand of facial pads I used for about a decade. I ran out of those and decided to try this cheaper alternative. I’ve not been disappointed after eight months of use. I love that they offer the same results at a lower price point. They offer a wide range of facial pads that each promise something different depending on your skins needs.
I’ve tried many toners over the years but was rarely impressed with the results. The ones I found beneficial didn’t last long and weren’t cost-effective. My favorite was a Korean rice toner sold on Amazon, but the bottle was small and the formula so watery that there was more waste than I was comfortable with.
The Thayers Milky Toner is thicker formula, doesn’t drip, and offers better coverage - a little goes a long way. It’s moisturizing, leaves skin feel refreshed, and gives a healthy glow at a wonderful price.
TruSkin Vitamin C Super Serum+
After years of using a well-known expensive anti-aging serum (the one in the brown bottle) and not seeing benefits, I decided to give this a try. I’ve gotten what I expected from the expensive brand: brighter skin that looks youthful and refreshed. If my skin is irritated from a peel or sun exposure, I skip this active to prevent additional irritation.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer
This is one product I can’t replace. I’ve tried nearly every peptide moisturizer on the market, but nothing compares. It makes my skin look healthy, youthful, and soft, - wiithout feeling overly greasy. It’s my year-round moisturizer.
Sephora carries the refill for the 1.69 oz. size, and it’s the most affordable option I’ve found. It also goes on sale fairly often. The packaging is another reason I love it - no contamination, the perfect amount dispensed each time, and less plastic waste. It lasts about eight months, so the price is well worth it.
This thick moisturizing cream is really one of those quiet, dependable classics. It’s consistency is ideal for overnight moisturizing, extra-dry days, or after a chemical peel. It melts like a mousse that transforms into a refreshing, watery moisturizer.
The fragrance is clean, soap-like. It has never caused a reaction for me, but keep in mind it does contain fragrance. I use small face spatulas (found on Amazon) to apply it without contaminating the tin. During warmer months, I switch to Vanicream, which is fragrance free and lighter.
A new that product for me that smoothes textured skin and minimizes the appearance of pores. This is my final step. It locks in moisture and can be used AM and PM. in my skincare routine. It initially dries like a primer, then settles into smooth, soft, glowing skin. It works beautifully under tinted sunscreen - but less is more. Using too much can cause pilling.
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
At first, I wasn’t thrilled about the size of this bottle for the price, but I discovered you only need a small amount on a cotton round - and I use it no more than twice a week. It resurfaces the skin and reveals a smoother, more radiant appearance.
It can be drying or irritate skin if overused, so be gentle the morning after. I rinse it gently with CeraVe oil cleanser, apply the milky toner, moisturize (Drunk Elephant and Nivea or Vanicream), lock it in with Medicube Jelly, and apply sunscreen. After this chemical exfoliant, I avoid additional actives - only moisture and protection.
RoC Revive and Glow Vitamin C Stick
Like a midday coffee for your under eyes. This convenient stick lives in my purse for touch-ups. It brightens and moisturizes the under-eye area while you’re on the go. It can be applied over makeup to erase dryness and caking that develops throughout the day. Swipe, pat lightly with your fingertip, and you’re refreshed enough to power through.
d’alba Piedmont Italian White Truffle Facial Spray Serum
This is the best facial spray I’ve used. It does what it claims. I use this on days I don’t need the heavy Nivea cremé but I need a little more moisture than the Drunk Elephant and Medicube Jelly. I also use this on those days I skip actives to avoid additional skin irritation from the Paula’s Choice BHA or when I’ve gotten too much sun.
CeraVe Tinted Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
This became my go-to tinted sunscreen during the cold, dry months. Its moisturizing formula comes in three shades and can be blended with your foundation for fuller coverage. It performs just as well as the more expensive brand I used for years in winter. Like Nivea, I don’t use it in warmer months because it provides more moisturize than I need.
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
This is the second luxury product I can’t replace. A great sunscreen is essential at any age, and this is mine. I use it year-round on sunny days, applying it after my serums and focusing on the high points of my face - nose, forehead, chin, and ears. It’s helpful to have two: one at home and one on the go. It goes on clear and works for anyone. Sunscreen is the most important step in preventing signs of aging, so don’t compromise on quality.
These are all of the products I’ve found that truly work for my skin. If something feels too heavy for you, try another option within that brand that’s formulated for your needs. This list is simply to show that effective skincare doesn’t have to be expensive.
Skincare changes with the seasons. These work for winter turning into spring in the Midwest. When I lived in Georgia, my needs were different. What matters most is loving yourself. How we each go about that is personal - but the results of care and consistency are universal.
When Literature Becomes Restoration
There are stories that history carried forward, and others that had to wait patiently to be heard in their own voice. Everett does something rare. He returns the voice to the person inside the story all along. He allows James to exist fully. Not as he was seen, but as he was.
From the first page I found myself recognizing literary art in a raw and pure form. James tells his story unapologetically as he lived it. The songs woven in carry a painful inheritance. They echo the minstrel tradition - songs that were used to reduce human beings into caricatures, forcing performance where dignity already existed.
What struck me most was not just the presence of these songs, but James’s awareness of them. He understood what was being performed, and why. His compliance was not ignorance. It was strategy. His inner self remained untouched by the performance required of him.
Mark Twain allowed readers to see the injustice through Huck’s awakening. But Percival Everett allows readers to inhabit the consciousness of the man who lived inside that injustice.
Twain revealed the moral failure of a system. Everett restores the intellectual and emotional sovereignty of the person forced to endure it.
I don’t believe one perspective replaces the other. Both are necessary. There is value in hearing from those who witnessed history, and equal value in hearing from those who lived inside it.
One helps us understand how injustice was seen. The other helps us understand how it was endured.
Together, they create something closer to truth than either could alone.
Some books entertain. Some books inform. But some books walk quietly into the cabin where history has been waiting and open a window that had long been closed.
James is one of those books. And I will return to it again and again.
When the Sandhill Cranes Returned
Some sounds do not belong to the present. They arrive carrying the memory of something older than ourselves.
As I ventured outside this afternoon to welcome my girls home from their day at school, I was met with an unusual sound coming from the sky. I looked up to see what I thought were geese flying in their usual V-formation, except these birds were not making the typical honking sound we’re familiar with. The sound they made as they flew high above in flocks of thousands demanded my attention. They carried the sound of something ancient.
As we walked home, we took in the sight and sounds of this mysterious species flying too high to identify. We questioned what we were seeing, what we were hearing, and why we didn’t recognize them. A neighbor happened to be outside tending to his gutters and offered an answer to our bewilderment.
He stated, “They’re Sandhill Cranes. They’re migrating to Canada. Some of them are coming from as far south as South America and will only stay here to rest, or they’re too old or injured to travel that far.”
I was stunned by not knowing about these cranes. I knew what cranes looked like. I’ve seen them throughout my life at small ponds. I’ve been in awe of the few I’ve seen, but these seemed new to me. Their sound and the sight of so many of them flying overhead all day was new bird behavior in Indiana for me.
A few moments later, we went for a walk to soak up the long-awaited, gentle air that was briefly visiting. As we walked to the park, we continued to be amazed by the flocks of Sandhill cranes making their long journey to their chosen destination. Their unique sound played as our background song along the way.
Upon walking home, the sky was no longer filled with that magic. The cranes had completed their journey over this small path we call home. I was happy for them. They knew instinctively, of course, that this was their perfect time to travel over Indiana. It was a cool mid-60-degree day, sunny, and only a slight breeze flowed through the trees. But the next day was set to be relentlessly windy, with the wind chills making it feel like a bone-chilling 7 degrees.
Once home, I looked the cranes up online, and waves of memory washed over me like high tide as I recalled my dad and me stopping each time we could to watch these exact cranes. We had witnessed them together many times and even seen a couple of the more rare (and nearly extinct) Whooping Cranes.
I can still vividly recall the look on my dads face when we saw the elusive white crane. His smile that was as golden as the sunsets in Georgia, and the twinkle in his eyes sparkled like stars in the night sky.
There are days such as this one that gently remind us how beautiful life can be. How one ordinary day can become filled with wonder, magic, and loving reminders that memories we once held so vividly -even those that quietly slipped to the back of our minds - still exist and still evoke the same joy.
Memories transcend time if we just slow down enough to notice.
And to the neighbor who rekindled memories I had locked away, I’m thankful he offered his knowledge to us. It’s very fitting that a dormant memory of mine was awakened by the Sandhill Cranes returning from their winter escape.
Some migrations happen in the sky. Others happen quietly within us.
Foggy Mornings
There is beauty in the grey. A peaceful exhale from Mother Nature under a veil.
This morning brought with it the magic and mystery of fog. As we opened our blinds, my daughter noticed it immediately and excitedly asked if there was a school delay, only to become rather deflated when I told there was not. While fog doesn’t promise school delays, it does promise something else - magic, mystery, and a quiet calm.
As a child, I imagined unicorn flying freely and unseen behind its veil. As an adult, I share that same mystery with my children in hopes they keep that childlike wonder with them into adulthood. We call foggy weather, “unicorn weather.”
Fog isn’t just something you see. It’s something you step into. It wraps around you gently, like a hug from the morning itself. The world softens inside it. Edges disappear. Sounds grow quieter. For a moment, everything feels suspended between what was and what will be.
You’re no longer standing apart from the world. You’re inside it. Held by it.
Maybe the magic comes from its reminder of what it feels like to belong to something we don’t need to understand. Fog doesn’t demand clarity. It invites stillness.
To witness it, and feel its embrace, is enough.
25 Book Recommendations for Little Pumpkins 🎃 📚
From pumpkin giggles to flashlight frights, these 25 “Little Pumpkins” reads bring the magic of the season to children ages 2-12 and up. Some have already been well-loved in our home, while others are on the “to be read” list for near-future adventures. Together, they celebrate the joy of stories that make us laugh, shiver, and imagine - the kind children return to again and again.
Whether it’s silly rhymes for toddlers, school-day spooks for early readers, or brave magical quests for older kids, this collection offers something for every stage of childhood. May these pages bring your little pumpkins comfort, courage, and just the right dose of seasonal sparkle.
🎃 A Pumpkin-Sized Start (Ages 2-5)
Gentle rhymes, pumpkins, and silly spooks - perfect for little pumpkins just beginning their Halloween fun.
Spooky Pookie by Sandra Boynton (Ages 1-3)
A sweet and silly Halloween board book perfect for toddlers! Pookie tries on all kinds of costumes - from a clown to a dragon - before finally choosing the best one for a night of trick-or-treating. With Boynton’s trademark rhymes and cheerful illustrations, this story makes dressing up for Halloween fun feel cozy and not too spooky.
The Spooky Wheels on the Bus by J. Elizabeth Mills (Ages 2-3)
A Halloween twist on the classic children’s song, this playful picture book takes little readers on a ride with a bus full of ghosts, mummies, witches, and more. Each verse adds a silly, spooky passenger until the bus is filled with Halloween fun. With its catchy rhythm and bold illustrations, it’s perfect for singing aloud and getting toddlers excited for the season.
At the Old Haunted House by Helen Ketteman (Ages 2-5)
In this lively Halloween counting book, readers explore a spooky old house filled with mummies, goblins, and ghosts galore. With its rhyming, sing-song text and playful illustrations, children can count along as more and more creatures join the fun. A little spooky but mostly silly, it’s a great pick for preschoolers who enjoy interactive, rhythmic stories.
The Big Halloween Forest Party by; La Ferté-Bernard (Ages 3-8)
My youngest has this book in her classroom at school and enjoys it so much that she wants her own at home to enjoy as well. She recommends this pick!
All the animals in the forest are getting ready for a big Halloween celebration - costumes, decorations, treats, and fun! With colorful illustrations and an upbeat story, this book captures the excitement of preparing for a party and celebrating together. Lighthearted and festive, it’s a perfect choice for younger children who love Halloween fun without the scare.
👻 Giggle-Delights & Friendly Frights (Ages 5-8)
Familiar characters and school-day silliness with just the right sprinkle of spook.
The Monster at the End of This Book by Jon Stone (Ages 2-5)
This Sesame Street classic stars the lovable Grover, who pleads with readers not to turn the pages - because there’s a monster waiting at the end! With its interactive style, silly suspense, and Grover’s dramatic reactions, kids can’t resist giggling all the way through. First published in 1971, it’s become a timeless family favorite that many parents (and grandparents!) remember from their own childhoods, making it just as fun to share year after year.
How to Catch a Witch by Alice Walstead (Ages 4-8)
Part of the popular How to Catch series, this playful story follows a group of kids setting clever traps to catch a mischievous witch on Halloween night. Full of rhymes, bright illustrations, and silly surprises, it’s perfect for giggles and repeat readings.
In our home, we’ve made a tradition of collecting each new seasonal release from this series - it’s always exciting to bring home the newest book and share it as a surprise bedtime read with the little ones.
Creepy Crayon! by Aaron Reynolds (Ages 4-8)
From the creators of Creepy Carrots! and Creepy Pair of Underwear! comes another quirky, slightly spooky tale. Jasper Rabbit discovers a crayon that always helps him ace his schoolwork - but soon, the crayon seems to have a mind of its own. With funny-but-chilling illustrations and just the right mix of silly and eerie, this story is a hit for kids who like a little spookiness with their laughs.
My daughter picked this one out herself for the season, and we’re excited to add it to our stack of Halloween reads!
Amelia Bedelia Scared Silly by Herman Parish (Ages 6-10)
Amelia Bedelia is back with her usual mix-ups and literal-minded humor - this time with Halloween twists! Full of silly misunderstandings, wordplay, and festive fun, it’s a lighthearted chapter book that keeps kids laughing.
For us, Amelia Bedelia is more than just a character; I grew up loving her stories - sometimes reading them myself, sometimes hearing my dad read them to me - and now I get to share that same joy with my own kids. Choosing this book feels like keeping that tradition alive, and it’s such a delight to see the laughter carry on.
Junie B. Jones, Boo…and I Mean It! by Barbara Park (Ages 6-9)
Junie B. is nervous about Halloween - between scary costumes and things that go bump in the night, trick-or-treating doesn’t sound so fun! But with her usual spunky personality and laugh-out-loud antics, Junie B. shows that even being scared can turn into an adventure. This series has a way of pulling kids right in with its humor and relatability. It’s been such a joy to keep Junie B.’s stories on our shelves. Junie B. and Boo…and I Mean It! is the perfect pick for Halloween.
The Witch Who Was Afraid of Witches by Alice Low (Ages 4-8)
This classic Halloween tale follows Wendy, a young witch who feels overshadowed by her bossy older sisters. But when she’s invited to go trick-or-treating, Wendy discovers that being herself is more powerful than any spell. With whimsical illustrations and a heartwarming message about courage and confidence, it’s a Halloween story that’s stood the test of time.
Eerie Elementary Series by Max Brallier (Ages 6-9)
In this spooky chapter book series, Sam Graves discovers that his elementary school is alive- And it’s hungry! With the help of his friends, he battles locker-sized monsters, haunted playgrounds, and eerie mysteries in fast-paced stories full of cliffhangers and illustrations. Perfect for newly independent readers who love a good scare without going overboard.
My daughter asked for this set, and I was glad to say yes - the box set includes four books, which makes it a fun way for her to dive into a series and keep the Halloween spirit going well beyond October.
My Favorite Spooky Stories (I Can Read! Box Set) (Ages 4-8)
This collection brings together several beginner-friendly Halloween tales from the beloved I Can Read! series. With simple sentences, familiar characters, and engaging illustrations, it’s designed to build confidence while keeping spooky season alive.
I chose this set especially for my youngest, as a way to reinforce her reading skills while giving her a stack of seasonal stories she can enjoy on her own. A perfect mix of practice and play for early readers.
🌙 Brave Young Witches & Adventurers (Ages 8-12)
Magic, mystery, and just enough challenge - for readers who love to get lost in bigger worlds.
Coraline by Neil Gaiman (Ages 8-12)
When Coraline steps through a mysterious door in her new home, she discovers an eerie “other” world that looks almost like her own - but darker, stranger, and far more dangerous. This modern classic blends suspense, fantasy, and just the right amount of creepiness for middle grade readers who are ready for something more chilling and less silly spooky.
It’s already become a favorite in our house - my oldest daughter picked it up this season, dove right in, and she’s absolutely loving it! A hauntingly imaginative story that lingers long after the last page.
The Witches by Roald Dahl (Ages 8-12)
In this darkly funny classic, Roald Dahl imagines a world where real witches hide in plain sight - disguised as ordinary women with one terrifying goal: to get rid of children. With its mix of humor, mischief, and just the right dose of fright, it’s a story that has captivated generations of readers.
While it’s a brand-new title for us and not yet on our shelves, it’s one we’re excited to explore as we expand into more middle grade Halloween favorites.
The Secret Lake by Karen Inglis (Ages 8-12)
Often described as “The Secret Garden meets Tom’s Midnight Garden,” this modern children’s classic follows siblings Stella and Tom as they discover a time tunnel beneath a hidden lake. Their adventures carry them back over 100 years, where they uncover mysteries, make new friends, and piece together secrets that connect the past to the present.
My oldest is especially intrigued by this one because of the time-travel element, and it’s on our list to pick up for her this season. A magical, page-turning story perfect for young readers who enjoy both mystery and imagination.
Josi the Vampire Girl: Vampire Trouble at School by Alicia Richter (Ages 8-10)
Josi may be a vampire, but she’s also just a regular girl trying to figure out life at school- with a few magical twists along the way. This lighthearted early chapter book blends friendship, humor, and just a dash of spooky fun, making it a great pick for young readers who like gentle Halloween vibes.
I picked this one simply because it looked adorable - the girl on the cover reminded me so much of my own girls, and I know they’d love nothing more than to cuddle a sweet, friendly bat just like the one she’s holding. Sometimes a cover alone tells you a book belongs in your stack!
The Crowns of Croswald by D.E. Night (Ages 9-12)
Step into the enchanting world of Croswald, where Ivy Lovely discovers she has magical powers and a destiny that will take her far beyond her quiet life. Filled with mystery, spells, and richly imagined adventure, this book is the first in a fantasy series that many readers compare to Harry Potter in spirit.
I chose this one because it’s part of a series - and I love how series become an “investment” in our own library. I often pack them away with seasonal decorations so the next year my kids can rediscover them, and they also make wonderful gifts. A box set like this is the kind of gift that gives year after year.
The Feather Chase by Shannon L. Brown (Ages 8-12)
This imaginative fantasy follows 12-year-old Isabel, who finds herself caught up in a magical quest after discovering a mysterious feather. Adventure, friendship, and courage drive the story as she learns that even ordinary kids can play extraordinary roles in saving their world.
It’s one my oldest has her eye on, she’d love to add it to her collection. A great pick for young readers drawn to magical quests and strong, relatable heroines.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill (Ages 10-14)
Winner of the Newbery Medal, this lyrical fantasy tells the story of Luna, a girl raised by a kind of witch, a tiny dragon, and a wise swamp monster. When Luna accidentally absorbs powerful magic as a baby, she must grow into her abilities and uncover the truth about her past. With themes of love, courage, and the fight between fear and hope, it’s a spellbinding read for middle grade and early teen readers.
This is one we’re excited to bring into our seasonal stack - a beautifully written story that feels both timeless and magical, perfect for kids ready to dive into deeper fantasy.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling (Ages 8-12)
The story that started it all - when Harry discovers he’s a wizard, he leaves his ordinary life behind for the magical halls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. With its mix of friendship, adventure, and wonder, the first book has become one of the most beloved children’s novels of all time.
I chose just this single title as a stand-alone here because it’s the most popular entry in the series and the one my kids’ class read together in third grade. It stands strong on its own, even while the rest of the series continues the adventure.
🕯️ Classic Chills & Family Favorites (Ages 9-12+)
Timeless tales and spooky collections to share together or read by flashlight.
Harry Potter: The Complete Series Box Set by J.K. Rowling (Ages 8-12+)
This stunning set brings together all seven books of the Harry Potter series, following Harry’s journey from his first year at Hogwarts to the epic final battle. With its blend of mystery, friendship, bravery, and magic, it’s a story world many readers return to again and again.
In our home, this box set stays out year-round - it’s become an annual tradition for me to read as many of the books as I can during the fall season, when the atmosphere feels just right. I love knowing it’s always there when I want to step back into a magical world filled with strong characters and an air of mystery.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving (Ages 10-14)
First published in 1820, this classic American tale follows Ichabod Crane, a timid schoolteacher, as he crosses paths with the eerie Headless Horseman in the quiet village of Sleepy Hollow. Full of autumn atmosphere, suspense, and a touch of humor, it’s a perfect read for spooky season.
My girls have seen the movie adaption with Johnny Depp, and now my oldest is especially eager to read the original story this year. A great way to connect a family favorite film to its timeless literary roots.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz (Ages 9-12)
This iconic collection of creepy folktales and urban legends has been thrilling (and chilling) readers for generations. With eerie illustrations and spine-tingling tales, it’s just the right mix of fright and fun for kids ready to dip into scarier stories.
I was given this book by my parents at the same age I’m purchasing it for my oldest daughter - the cover has changed, but the stories remain the same. I still remember reading it under a blanket with a flashlight late at night with my best friend, equal parts terrified and delighted. Sharing it now feels like passing down a rite of passage in spooky storytelling.
Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas: Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea Ernshaw (Ages 12+)
This enchanting sequel to the beloved film follows Sally, newly crowned Pumpkin Queen, as she faces a mysterious new threat to Halloween Town. Blending gothic atmosphere, romance, and Burton-esque imagination, the story expands the world fans already adore while giving Sally her own powerful voice.
We love Tim Burton’s genius-level creativity, so this book feels like the perfect addition to our seasonal stack. It’s also the beginning of a series, making it an exciting pick to return to year after year as new installments are released.
A World Full of Spooky Stories: 50 Tales to Make Your Spine Tingle by Angela McAllister (Ages 6-12)
This beatifully illustrated collection gathers ghost stories, folkltales, and eerie legends from around the world. With 50 short tales inside, it’s perfect for dipping into one story each day or night throughout the season.
We love it for the way it draws parents and children together - creating a cozy (and sometimes spine-tingling!) tradition of shared storytelling all October long. A wonderful book to end your night with, whether by candlelight, flashlight, or just curled up together on the couch.
Putting this list together has been such a joy - not just because of the stories themselves, but because of the traditions, memories, and connections they spark. As parents, there’s something magical about watching our children fall in love with books we once held dear, or discovering new ones together that might become the classics of their own childhood. Whether it’s laughing with Amelia Bedelia, shivering over a spooky tale by flashlight, or escaping into a world of magic and mystery, these books remind us that stories are the threads that tie our seasons - and our families - together. Here’s to many cozy nights, giggles, and maybe even a few goosebumps as we turn the pages this Halloween season. 🎃📚
20 Spooky Season Book Recommendations 💀📚
Spooky season is more than a time for candlelight and crisp leaves - it’s a season for stories that stir the imagination and remind us of the shadows we carry with us. Some are timeless classics that have haunted us for generations, some are modern gems still finding their place on our shelves, and a few are personal favorites I return to when the nights grow long.
This collection of 20 books is not about chasing what’s most popular, but about offering a house full of voices - gothic masters, southern storytellers, unexpected thrillers, and tales that linger like whispers in the dark. From the haunted halls of Rebecca to the southern mystery of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, and ending with Poe’s greatest works, each title feels like a tenant settling into October, keeping you company with a little mystery, a little magic, and just the right amount of spookiness.
They’re in no particular order, because spooky season is something felt, not curated. The eerie, the elegant, the unsettling, and the deeply human. I hope you find one here to light your candle, curl under your blanket, and let the season come alive.
No Rest for the Wicked is a new discovery for me this spooky season, and one that caught my attention as a lover of detective shows and small-town mysteries. It promises layered secrets, eerie suspense, and the page-turning quality crime fans can’t resist.
I haven’t read it yet, but it feels like the kind of book that belongs on a fall list - especially for those of us who find ourselves hooked on crime shows and want that same energy in book form. Sometimes the thrill of the season is in the discovery, and this one earns its place as a fresh pick.
No spooky season would be complete without Stephen King’s It. For me, this is an annual tradition read - a story that carries echoes of Steinbeck in the way King describes the places, the characters, and the weight of their feelings. It’s eerie and unsettling, but there’s also something cozy in its detail.
For GenX and Boomers, It became more than just a book - it was a cultural experience, often introduced too young, leaving some of us haunted in ways we weren’t ready for. That trauma, of being thrust into fear before we could process it, made it an almost mythic marker of our generation. Today, it’s passed to younger readers in a lighter, more wholesome way - as a story of friendship, coming of age, and facing fears together.
That duality is what keeps It alive across generations: both terrifying and tender, unsettling and strangely nostalgic. In its own way, it’s a coming-of-age story dressed in horror, and it continues to haunt long after the last page.
Bradbury was a new author to me, but he quickly became a favorite for the unique way he writes. His style is mythical and poetic, prose that often reads like disguised poetry. Something Wicked This Way Comes captures that perfectly, with its blend of horror, fantasy, and Americana.
Beneath the carnival tents and unsettling spectacle, Bradbury explores themes of aging, innocence, temptation, and the shadow side of desire. It’s a story that feels both timeless and deeply October - strange, beautiful, and unsettling all at once. This one has become one of my newest and most treasured spooky season reads.
I chose The Hollow Places for its gentle introduction into all things creepy, with characters that feel surprisingly relatable. Among them is Beau - a sassy, independent cat who steals scenes as easily as he steals hearts.
This book blends humor with unease, messy lives with mysterious portals, and a world that’s creepy - or is it? It’s a lighter but still unsettling read, perfect for easing into spooky season.
Mexican Gothic earns its place here for its eerie atmosphere while not being relentlessly dark. It’s perfect for readers who want gothic chills without going as heavy as King or Bradbury.
This novel is full of twists and unsettling moments. Some predictable, others surprising, but that’s what keeps you turning pages. At its heart, it wrestles with family patriarchy, control, and the suffocating weight of tradition. Those themes can strike uncomfortably close to home, even beneath the supernatural trappings. It’s a modern gothic that offers a lighter entry point into spooky season.
Though not the Appalachian pine woods I first hoped for, The House in the Pines earns a place on my list as a lighter psychological thriller. Centered on woman and the impact of strong friendships, it offers suspense without leaning too heavily into horror.
While its ending divided readers, the journey there makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a quick, eerie read this season.
The Only One Left delivers everything readers expect from a thriller - plenty of twists, layered family secrets, murder, paranoia, and deceit. Some have found the ending weighed down by too many prolonged twists, but I see it as a solid, satisfying choice for the season.
If you’re looking for a book that keeps you turning pages late into the night, this one earns its place.
Salem’s Lot earns its place on my list not because it’s King’s most celebrated novel, but because it was my first. I picked it up at age eleven, drawn to its eerie premise after my mom’s shelves of King’s novels. Knowing this was only his second novel makes it feel even more authentic King - raw, atmospheric, and steeped in dread.
It may not appear on many spooky season lists, but for me, it’s the book that opened the door to his world - and it still haunts me decades later.
Unlike many modern horror novels that open with a bang, Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House takes its time. Its slow beginning isn’t a weakness but the groundwork for one of the most unsettling psychological haunted house stories ever written.
Jackson’s restraint and precision make it a unique classic - haunting not because of what it shows, but because of what it suggests.
For me, The Sun Down Motel has everything a spooky season read should have: atmosphere dripping with unease, shocking twists that keep you hooked, and a setting so creepy it feels alive.
I had never read Simone St. James before, but she nails the mood here - proving that spooky doesn’t have to come only from the classics. This is one of those books that just feels like October.
While many readers know Bradbury for Something Wicked This Way Comes, I wanted to include on of his lesser-known works: The October Country. It’s a collection of eerie short stories that feels tailor-made for fall - each unsettling in its own way, yet carried by Bradbury’s lyrical prose.
If you’re looking for something that embodies the strange, haunted poetry of October without committing to a full novel, this is a gem worth discovering.
Anne Rice’s vampires are drenched in lush gothic decadence - velvet, candlelight, and sensual darkness. Interview with the Vampire holds a special kind of nostalgia for me. When the film came out in the 90’s, it wasn’t just a vampire story; it was part of the era’s mood. We wore our deep wine lipstick, flannels, loose jeans, and Converse to the theater, carrying the raw edge of grunge into a story dripping with velvet Gothic lushness.
The contrast still lingers for me: the richness of Rice’s New Orleans vampires wrapped in the stripped-down spirit of the 90’s. It may not be my favorite novel, but it’s a haunting generational classic, born for GenX Octobers.
Gray After Dark was an absolute page-turner for me. The wilderness setting creates the kind of isolation that makes every page hum with tension, gripping me like a Netflix suspense series I couldn’t turn off.
What makes it even more unsettling is that it’s based on a true story - adding a layer of realism that lingers after you’ve closed the book. As one of this season’s new releases, it standouts out as a modern pick for spooky season.
I came to Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil later than many, discovering it during my first autumn season at our Georgia house. I read it on the screened-in deck off of my bedroom, doors open, candles lit, listening to crows whisper and shake their feathers high in the pines as night fell. That memory clings to the book as much as Savannah itself - a city that feels alive in these pages, soulful and unsettling in equal measure.
True crime has a grip on us middle-aged women, and this one does not disappoint. It captures the beauty and eccentricity of the Old South, complete with its charms and prejudices. Some may bristle at a New Yorker capturing southern quirks - drag queens’ sharp opinions, lingering tensions with ‘Yankees’ - but that’s what good books do: they stir, they provoke, they make you see.
For me, it was a hauntingly perfect read for October nights.
A gothic classic that lingers long after the last chapter, Rebecca is told through the eyes of an unnamed narrator who embodies the insecurity of never feeling “enough” as she lives in the shadow of her husband’s late wife.
What makes the novel endure is not just its plot, but Du Maurier’s prose - dreamy, atmospheric, and patient in its unraveling. Manderley itself becomes a haunting presence, cloaked in memory and menace. Part love story, part ghost story, and wholly unforgettable, Rebecca captures romance in the way only the classics can: elegant, slow-burning, and steeped in shadows.
A modern gothic masterpiece, The Thirteenth Tale feels as though it was born from the shadows of Brontë and Du Maurier. Secrets, lies, and a crumbling estate whisper through every page, embodying everything October promises.
What makes it stand out is its ability to feel timeless without being overhyped - beloved by readers who’ve discovered it, yet still a hidden gem for many. Setterfield weaves a story of memory and identity that lingers like an echo in an abandoned hall. For me, it gives this list a full-circle moment: a contemporary novel that honors the gothic tradition while carving out its own unforgettable place.
Once Upon a River is my second Diane Setterfield pick on this list - and for good reason. Where The Thirteenth Tale gives readers a modern gothic classic, Once Upon a River offers something quieter and more mysterious, steeped in folklore and the timeless art of storytelling.
Set along the banks of the Thames, this tale blends myth with gothic undertones, weaving a narrative that feels both otherworldly and grounded in human longing. It may not be as widely recognized, but that’s part of its charm: a hidden gem for readers who want to discover something luminous and haunting. It’s the kind of book to curl up with on a foggy October evening, letting the river carry you away.
Those Empty Eyes is a chilling modern thriller woven with media frenzy, memory, and survival. It’s fast-paced yet atmospheric, fitting October’s mood by showing how trauma and truth can twist in the shadows.
What makes it stand out is its balance: sharp enough to keep you turning pages late into the night, yet layered enough to echo the psychological depth of the classics. Perfect for readers who want a contemporary scare without losing that haunting sense of weight beneath the suspense.
The cornerstone of gothic horror, Dracula is more than just a tale of a vampire - it’s about fear of the unknown, shifting of power, and the eternal pull of the darkness.
Every shadowy castle, every whispered superstition, every gothic story that followed owes something to Stoker’s masterpiece. Dracula doesn’t just belong on an October list, it built the house where all the other gothic stories live.
No October feels complete without Poe’s shadow. Whether it’s The Tell-Tale Heart, The Raven, or The Fall of the House of Usher, his works strike that perfect chord of unease and beauty - as lyrical as they are unsettling.
Though often cast only in darkness, Poe’s writing is more than terror. It’s rhythm, atmosphere, and a haunting music of the mind. This special edition honors him well, reminding us that Poe is the very essence of the season: dark, lyrical, and unforgettable.
October passes quickly, but the stories we gather stay with us long after the month is gone. Each of these books carries a flicker of seasonal magic - whether in gothic shadows, southern mysteries, or modern chills that keep you turning pages by candlelight.
As you move through this list, may you find a book that speaks to you, one that lingers in your thoughts the way autumn itself hangs in the air. And remember: spooky season is never only about fear - it’s about wonder, imagination, and the thrill of finding light in the dark.
Until next time, may these pages keep you in good company beneath the October moon. 🍑📚🌙
The Sacredness of the Mundane
We often think the sacred is found in mountain top moments, grand victories, and big milestones. But lately, I’ve discovered it in the most ordinary places - in the dishes, the laundry, the sweep of a broom. The life I once saw as mundane is the very life I now see as holy.
I used to see dishes, laundry, and sweeping as chores. Lately, I’ve realized the greatest luxury isn’t freedom from responsibilities, it’s the privilege of showing up for you life with a clear mind and a full heart. I’ve come to cherish the mundane, because it means I’m here. I’m safe. I’m present.
Observing the wreckage of addiction while also knowing our time here is limited brought me to this turning point. I am grateful for my clarity and choosing presence over bitterness.
Watching what addiction can steal from a life, watching it erase dignity, peace, even the ability to function, has changed me. I see it now in contrast: that I get to do these thing. I get to have a routine. I get to show up fully awake, for the life I’ve worked so hard to protect.
Washing dishes becomes meditation. Wiping down the kitchen island feels like an offering. The scent of warm towels out of the dryer reminds me that this is home, this is safety, this is the life I’ve kept intact.
Each small grace is a thread in the tapestry of survival, of motherhood, of womanhood - once resented, now revered.
There’s a quiet holiness in sweeping the floors. There’s peace in the rhythm of small tasks. And if you’re able to do these things today, remember - they are not signs of a boring life, but a blessed one. They are proof that you are here, that you are keeping your life intact, and that even the smallest moments carry the weight of grace.
The Bittersweet Song of Summer
In Indiana, summer feels brief - its golden days arrive all at once, then begin slipping away almost as quickly. Maybe that’s why I find myself savoring every hour, stretching afternoons at the pool with my girls as far as the sun will allow. These are the days I wish I could bottle: sticky hands, carefree laughter, and the hum of a season already whispering its goodbye.
The ethereal scents of sunscreen, coconut, chlorine, and fabric softener billowing in the wind like clothes hanging on a line to dry, mingling with the sound of lively laughter, playful chatter, water splashing and crashing gleefully against the edges of a pool that’s alive. The feel of scorching hot concrete on the soles of feet. This is summer - alive, fleeting, unforgettable.
Sticky ice cream drips down little hands, leaving trails of sweetness no napkin can quit erase. In the moment, it feels ordinary, almost forgettable - but these are the very memories that linger, becoming extraordinary when we pause to notice them. I savor them knowing that as children grow, summer shifts - still generous, but never quite the same. Its days stretch long and endless, yet they vanish when looked back upon.
It was the first cicada song that told me this season was turning. Their call rose in the heat, steady, and ancient, a reminder that even joy carries its own ending. In Georgia, summers once stretched endlessly, but in Indiana, the days feel shorter - too precious to take for granted. That is the bittersweet gift of summer: to be fully here now, knowing it will one day fade, yet live forever in the sound of laughter, the taste of sweetness, and the song of a cicada at dusk.
The Best Mother I’ve Ever Known
I’ve been a single mother for a long time now. There’s no manual, no applause, and no off-switch. Just you and the rhythm of the days. Yet, I’ve never felt alone, because Mother Nature was always there.
She taught me how to bend without breaking. How to stand in my bare, wintering self and know I was still worthy of love.
How to give without losing my roots.
While I held the house together, she held me together.
She doesn’t panic in bad weather. She doesn’t question her value when she’s stripped of her blossoms. She just grows. Again, and again. Gracefully. Quietly.
I used to walk outside just to breathe her in, to be reminded that life keeps going, even when it doesn’t feel like it. That healing is slow. That showing up - imperfect and honest, is enough.
She was the one constant. The reminder. The comfort I didn’t have to explain.
The best mother I’ve known never said a word. She just showed me how to live.
Mother Nature is the best mother, the one that never leaves, never rushes your healing, and stands steady through every storm and every bloom.
She taught me that I, too, could be enough for my children.
Where the Branches Bend
Life doesn’t always follow rows and seasons. The Wild Peach is where the unplanned takes root. These are stories of sorrow and wonder, detours and awakenings. The bruised fruit, the bent branch, the beauty of things that grow in wild, unexpected ways.
May these wild stories remind you: you are not alone in the weathering.
Curious hearts are always welcome here…
Where the Porch Meets the Page
A place where nostalgic reflections linger like dusk on a summer evening. This is where memory and heart meet, told in the spirit of porches, rocking chairs, and stories that are passed down from one generation to the next.
Settle in a little longer…there’s more to see.
What Blooms in The Library Garden
This is where I gather the words that held me, healed me, and helped me see. Books that gave me language when I had none. Stories that became shelter. Here you’ll find book reviews for adults and children, recommendations for new reads and beloved classics, and notes on what I’m currently exploring.
For anyone who loves stories and the worlds they open, this garden is always blooming.
Come turn the page with me—there’s more to read, more to gather, more to grow.
The Garden We Carry Within
In the Orchard, you’ll find reflections on motherhood and children, rooted in love, growth, and seasonal life with its rhythms. This is where I gather the stories of family life, both tender and true.
Where the seasons shape us, and the smallest hands hold the sweetest fruit.
Step softly—more stories are growing here…
Welcome to Field Notes
Field Notes is like catching up with a friend while walking through a field. It’s where the ordinary grows: everyday life updates, small-town news, recipes, and even a few behind-the-scenes glimpses. Nothing polished, just what I found on the way, written in the margins of real days.
Want to wander further into the field?
Gathering the Fruit: A Guide to the Categories
Where everything begins—a gentle guide to the categories you’ll find growing here.
Here, things are gathered slowly.
This blog is a home for the stories I’ve carried with me—the soft ones, the sharp ones, the ones that cling like morning dew. I’ve shaped it like a quiet orchard: each branch holds a different kind of offering.
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Everyday stories, recipes, community news, donation drives, and behind-the-scene glimpses.
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Reflections on motherhood and children, rooted in love and family life.
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Gentle reminders of gratitude, blessings, and beauty in the everyday.
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Honest, unflinching writing on life’s heavier and more difficult themes.
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Book reviews and recommendations for children and adults alike.
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Nostalgic reflections and memory-rich storytelling.
