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The Hearthkeeper's Letter
October Newsletter 2026
Greetings, friends,
October has settled in around us once again, bringing crisp mornings, golden leaves, and that unmistakable feeling that autumn has truly arrived. It is my favourite season, and each year I seem to appreciate its quieter gifts a little more.
I thought this month I would simply sit down and share a few thoughts, much as one might write a letter to a friend, since I consider all those viewing my work folkloric friends.
What I've Been Up To
The past several weeks have been wonderfully busy here at PumpkinSpice Hearthcraft. I've spent a great deal of time expanding the website and adding new sections that I've long wanted to create.
One of the newest additions is The Writing Parlour (which will be posted in the next few days), a cosy corner devoted to stories, articles, reflections, and the written word. I've also opened The Wayfarer's Traveller's Journal (which is also almost ready to post to the site; it will be up in the next few days) where I will be sharing travels, adventures, photographs, and memories collected over the years.
There is much more to come.
In fact, I have so many journeys and experiences waiting to be added that it may take months to fully build out the collection. I am enjoying the process of revisiting old photographs, remembering forgotten details, and sharing places that have been meaningful in my life.
I have also been spending time creating artwork, working on crafts, and continuing to explore the many subjects that make up a folkloric life. Autumn always seems to awaken my creativity, and there never quite seem to be enough hours in the day for all the ideas waiting to be brought to life.
An Autumn Reflection
Like many people, I've noticed that some autumn traditions have become harder to maintain in recent years.
The rising cost of nearly everything means that certain outings, activities, or seasonal treats that once felt routine now require more thought and planning. Some traditions have become smaller, while others have had to be set aside for the time being.
Yet autumn has reminded me of something important.
The heart of the season was never really found in spending.
It's found in the smell of cinnamon and apples in the kitchen.
In a favourite sweater.
In colourful leaves blowing across a country road.
In candles glowing softly after sunset.
In sharing laughter and stories with people we care about.
This year, rather than focusing on what cannot be done, I'm trying to treasure what still can be.
I'm grateful that I can still bring home a pumpkin.
I'm grateful for apple season and the arrival of my beloved Macoun apples, which I wait for all year long.
I'm grateful for homemade applesauce simmering on the stove, fresh apple pie, and warm apple Danish shared with family.
And perhaps most of all, I'm grateful for our annual Halloween movie night.
Every year we gather at home with bowls of popcorn, too many treats, and a collection of spooky or Halloween-themed films. It isn't elaborate or expensive, but it has become one of my favourite traditions.
Those evenings remind me that the best memories are often the simplest ones.
A Small October Encouragement
If this season feels different than years gone by, know that you are not alone.
Perhaps your celebrations are smaller.
Perhaps your decorations are fewer.
Perhaps your table looks different than it once did.
That does not diminish the spirit of the season.
Autumn asks us to notice beauty in simple things.
The turning leaf.
The evening breeze.
A loaf of bread fresh from the oven.
A phone call from a friend.
A quiet walk beneath coloured trees.
The season remains generous even when life feels uncertain.
From the Hearth
This month I hope to spend more time walking outdoors, gathering inspiration for future articles, enjoying the last warm afternoons before winter arrives, and continuing to build PumpkinSpice Hearthcraft into a welcoming place for everyone who loves folklore, tradition, creativity, and the comforts of home.
Whether you've been visiting since the beginning or have only recently discovered this little corner of the internet, thank you for being here.
Your visits, comments, encouragement, and shared love of the seasons mean more than you know.
An October Blessing
May October bring warmth to your hearth and peace to your heart.
May your home be filled with laughter, good company, and simple pleasures.
May your journeys be safe, your tables welcoming, and your evenings restful.
May you find beauty in golden leaves, comfort in familiar traditions, and hope for brighter days ahead.
And may the spirit of the season remind you that even the smallest moments are worth treasuring.
Happy October, friends.
Until next time,
Kimberley
PumpkinSpice Hearthcraft
Folkloric Living All Year Round
© 2026 - PumpkinSpice Hearthcraft
