Friends, good Sunday to you!
Behold this batch of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls I’m about to put in the oven. Truth be told, I think they’re a bit over-proofed but somehow I don’t think that will keep me from eating at least two. In other news, I’ve discovered a newfound respect for mothers who run with their babies in strollers. It’s a whole thing, isn’t it? So far I’ve managed not to trip over myself ahead of a little 10k race (that I obvi don’t plan on winning) in November. In other words, I’m out here staying veeeery humble.
Here’s this week’s five!
• My son John is nearly six months old (you guys were right, time is a thief) and for the last few of these six months I’ve been thinking a lot about capturing memories for our little family. I just really buck up against the idea that all of our family photos and memories will live on my telephone of all things. Actually, the last thing my iPhone is is a telephone. It’s very much a handheld computer / timesuck – but the point remains. It’s inspired me to dig through my box of old film cameras which feels exciting… if not clunky and unpredictable. I’m currently working on a roll of film in this vintage hand-me-down Kodak Automatic 35 camera and I can’t tell you yet if a single shot is in focus but I’m shooting away nonetheless. I’ve also joined Indie Film Lab for their film sales and eventually film development. So far I’ve found that the easiest re-entry into the world of film is a disposable film camera. They feel very low stakes but still produce some very fun photos and it’s very easy to throw in my purse and whip out for a quick snap. I’m also toying with the idea of keeping this little Kodak film printer on hand for the photos I do take on my iPhone. One thing is for certain: this is a long game. I’m open to any wisdom you might have to offer in this department.
• I’m not sure if you’ve made the transition from “Apple Fall” to “Pumpkin Fall” yet and I certainly don’t want to rush you. I’d just like to casually mention that this Browned Butter Pumpkin Texas Sheet Cake is lovely this time of year (my favorite being the pecan glaze that goes on the warm cake), and these Perfectly Cozy Pumpkin Muffins that are astounding with a slice (yes, a slice) of cold cream cheese.
• Do you follow Pia Baroncini on Instagram or Substack? I love her style. I love how she shares about her life and family. The vibes are impeccable.
•  Every September I’m tempted to buy an entirely new trendy, sweater-heavy wardrobe and just casually become a different person (very Gemini coded) and every year I… don’t. This year is no exception except I do want to bring in a few trend-adjacent pieces to work into my existing wardrobe (well the part of my wardrobe that actually fits comfortably at six months postpartum). I’ve heard royal purple is having its moment but it’s just a bit too theatrical for me. I am loving the royal blue and bold red that the girlies have dubbed on trend. This 100% cotton sweater in sapphire blue seems great for layering in the milder days of fall and winter. I love this squall packable raincoat in compass red. And I think these bold blues and reds will pair well with warm brown (this pair being similar to one I have in my closet).
• Thank you so much for encouragement and book recommendations last week! I’m fully leaning into audiobooks to get me out of my podcast funk (I feel like I just can’t with podcasts right now) and, dare I say, READ! I’m starting with The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (thank you Mary Beth!) and going into The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon (thank you Margaret). I also have All The Mothers by Domenica Ruta in my queue so I’m set for a few weeks!
I’m grateful to y’all. Let’s make it a great day!
xo Joy
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