autumn...

it's upon us...my FAVORITE season! welcome fall. the things i most appreciate about autumn range from the perfect scented candle, ALL the decor, the colors, baking and feeling it's warmth in my home all day, the schedule and routine, the "quieting" of me. we had such a fun and crazy summer and i can easily say of it, the kids loved every minute. but, fall...fall is my time. it's like there is room in the day just for me. for a long bubble bath at night, moments to reflect and journal, time for a walking schedule, or to read a good book, time for my thoughts.

yesterday, i made my first batch of fireside coffee...awww fall has arrived! it's a coffee recipe i got several years from one of my girlfriends (who is a fabulous cook). it's a perfect companion to a slice of "candy bread" (that's what my daughters call banana bread and pumpkin loaves). for me, fireside is to autumn what the tree is to christmas. here is the recipe:

~FIRESIDE COFFEE~
2 cups instant hot cocoa (hot chocolate for canadians)
2 cups dry coffee creamer (coffeemate)
1 cup instant coffee (erik likes it when i double this amount)
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 1/2 cup cups sugar (i use less...about half that much)

mix well and then store in container of your choice.
add 2-3 tbsp. to hot water...enjoy! it makes such a great gift.


i would love to know what your favorite fall recipes are. whether they be something for the crockpot or a favorite loaf, a comforting casserole or a fabulous cookie...please share!