What To Do in October: Our Northern California Suggestions

For lots of us, the beginning of October feels like the true beginning of fall: shorter days, chilly mornings, a clear routine for the kiddos who've adjusted to their return to school.  It's the in between time, a peaceful period after summer and before the rush of the holiday season. We saw this absolutely wonderful to-do list from The Every Girl and thought it might be fun to try each of their October suggestions. We did a little research and combined the findings with our own insider knowledge. We hope you like it.

Pumpkin Tomato Soup With Grilled Swiss Cheese Sticks

We love a warm, satisfying soup for dinner, especially on a chilly night. Adding pumpkin to a tomato soup gives a decidedly fall feel and crunchy, tangy parmesan cheese sticks are generally a big hit with kids. Full recipe is linked here.

 Road Tripping to Yosemite

It surprises us how many longtime Californians have never been to Yosemite. If there’s one word to describe the area, it’s probably magical. It’s about 3.5 hours from Marin get to the park’s entrance, but we think it's definitely worth the drive. Fall is considered off-season, so dealing with lots of tourists isn't generally an issue. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but with within the parks nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, and lots more. You'll probably want to spend the night, so here are lodging options within the park.

Grossi Family Farm Pumpkin Patch

 Just up the highway in Novato, this family-run farm has lots to do for both adults and kids. Grab your girlfriends, pack a picnic lunch, and spend the day. They also accommodate private parties if that's more your thing.  More details here.

It's Official Sweater Weather

For lots of us, it's our favorite style season.  Whether you prefer cotton, cashmere, or 100% wool, sweaters are both functional and fashionable.  We have an assortment in store and online in beautiful fall colors, classic neutrals, solids, stripes, and prints.  Each of the sweaters below is linked, just tap on the image. Or come see us at the store.  Cozy comfort awaits.  

Candles and a Book Selection

 As days get shorter, one of our favorite ways to spend the dark evenings is to curl up with a good book. We settle in early, covered with a cozy blanket and light a candle.  Our little shop a few doors down from the Store on Throckmorton called the Local, has candles by two small women-owned brands, Intentional Goods and Mandala Moon.  Both burn incredibly clean and are neither too heavily nor too lightly scented. We can't think of a better way to unwind from the day. 

While lots of us tend to mourn the summer's end, we choose to embrace the seasonal changes, even here in Northern California where the shift from summer to fall is neither abrupt nor dramatic. This little to-do list, complements of The Everygirl and made hyperlocal by us, is just a start.  Welcome to October.  Fall is here in all it's glory.  

XO,

Ronnie and Evan