"A cozy home is made of little things — a warm cup, a favourite book, and moments worth slowing down for." ~ Laura Leeder, Artist
There is something rather lovely about this time of year, when the garden begins to settle in for its winter rest and our attention turns to making home a little cozier.
Here in the Creston Valley, we've been enjoying some beautiful, mild autumn days. The maple leaves are falling faster than we can rake them, the garden is dressed in its final colours, and little Gabby has been thoroughly enjoying herself among the leaves!
It's hard to believe we're already in the final week of October.
Bringing a Little of the Garden Indoors
As the evenings grow cooler, I've been making a few seasonal changes around the house. Out come the heavier cushions and cozy throws, and I've rediscovered the pleasure of lighting candles in the evening.
I also enjoy having one glowing beside me in the early morning, while I sip my coffee and work on a Sudoku puzzle. It's a quiet little ritual that makes the start of the day feel especially peaceful.
I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to the garden, though!
One of my favourite ways to enjoy it a little longer is to bring some of its treasures indoors. Hydrangeas are wonderful for this. Their blooms dry beautifully and can look lovely in a vase throughout the winter.
This year I've also been cutting branches of variegated euonymus, sometimes called Fortune's Spindle or Wintercreeper. Its cream-and-green leaves and pretty pink and cream fruit, with touches of red, make such an elegant arrangement.
The branches last a surprisingly long time in a vase and look beautiful on their own. Occasionally, I'll add a few store-bought lilies or whatever fresh flowers happen to catch my eye.
It's such a simple way to bring a little of the garden's beauty indoors.
"Sometimes the loveliest way to welcome a new season is to bring a little of the garden indoors." ~ Laura Leeder, Artist
Soup Weather & Simple Pleasures
Of course, autumn also means the return of a few favourite indoor pastimes.
I've brought out the jigsaw puzzles again. I love having one spread across a table where we can stop for a few minutes throughout the day, find a piece or two, and carry on with whatever we were doing.
And then there's soup!
With the cooler weather, I've been thinking about a recipe I've made for years: Jiffy Bean, Broccoli and Tomato Chowder.
It's simple, comforting and surprisingly tasty. I've made a few variations over the years, depending on what ingredients I have on hand, and it's one of those recipes I enjoy returning to when the seasons change.
If you're in the mood for a cozy bowl of homemade soup, I thought you might enjoy trying it too.
*Download my Jiffy Bean, Broccoli and Tomato Chowder Recipe (PDF)
A Little News from the Studio
While I've been enjoying these autumn moments, there's also been plenty happening in the studio.
I'm delighted that the first batch of my Garden Notes greeting-card collection has almost sold out! A second order is on its way, along with a few new additions.
One I'm especially excited about is Gathered in the Garden, a new wreath design featuring three of the eight backyard birds I've been exploring in my artwork.
I've also created two sizes of art prints featuring this design, and I'm looking forward to seeing the finished samples.
And yes, Christmas greeting cards are on their way too! They're currently being printed, and I hope to share them with you very soon.
I love the thought of having a few beautiful art cards on hand for birthdays, thank-you notes, holiday greetings and those little occasions when a handwritten message feels especially meaningful.
A Little Something to Look Forward To
Before I go, I have one more little bit of news.
I'm planning something special for November as a thank-you to everyone who has followed along, encouraged my artwork and supported my little studio.
There will be a giveaway, and I'll be sharing the details soon!
Until then, I hope you're finding time to enjoy some of autumn's simple pleasures, whether that's a walk among the leaves, a favourite homemade soup, a good book or a quiet moment with a cup of tea.
Wishing you warmth, beauty and a little everyday wonder.
Laura 🌿
Laura's Garden Studio
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