Entering the Slow Season & Embracing Rest

I was having a bit of writer’s block this past week and, admittedly, left my blog post writing to the last possible minute. It didn’t feel right to rush a recipe or a DIY project just for the sake of posting — not when I couldn’t bring the same level of care and creativity I usually do.

Then I remembered why I started this blog in the first place: to help others live more naturally and seasonally, and to have fun doing it. My vision has always been to weave my everyday life into the content here, so that what I share feels authentic and true to the moment.

The truth is, I did have a full week — I just didn’t document much of it. I went to the farmer’s market last Saturday, started knitting a wool sweater, and made a delicious slow-cooked beef stew. But none of it felt particularly “photo-worthy,” and that’s okay.

So this week, instead of forcing content, I want to share a few reflections as we enter the slow season. With daylight savings just around the corner, now feels like the perfect time to take inventory of how we’re spending our time — and to decide what can be set aside for a while.

We live in a culture that glorifies hustle and constant productivity, often at the expense of rest. But we need to reframe our thinking: resting is productive. Sleep, especially, is a kind of superpower — it restores our energy, helps our bodies absorb nutrients, supports brain health, and allows us to form long-term memories.

Here in Iowa, the days are growing shorter, and the air has that crisp, clean feeling that signals winter is on its way. The trees seem to change color slowly, and then all at once. There’s no snow in the forecast yet, but I’m sure it will make an appearance in November.

As the year winds down, instead of filling our schedules with to-dos and year-end goals, what if we simply slowed down? It’s okay to say no — even to things we enjoy — if it means creating more space for quiet, rest, and even boredom.

I hope these thoughts resonate with you. I’d love to hear how you approach this season: What do you choose to prioritize or let go of as the days get colder? How do you embrace living more seasonally?