Falling back, and catching up {favorite apple & pumpkin recipes}

Anyone who wonders why Daylight Savings Time still exists clearly never lived in a rural area. City-living is timeless, literally. Growing up in Brooklyn, part of the city that never sleeps, time was a just a way to measure the day. The sun rising and setting was just a supporting actor helping the day cruise along, albeit a best supporting actor for someone who’s mental energy relies on solar power.

Living in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by mountains and trees, daylight means everything. Work has been nonstop lately, so most days I find myself starting the workday before any glimmers of daylight and ending when the first stars appear in the nightsky. It’s not healthy, I know, and trust it’s a constant effort to find new ways to rejuvenate my mind and keep work from infringing on my life 24/7, especially since there’s no separation from work life and home life these days.

Once the clocks change this coming weekend, I can restart my early morning walks. I’m sad to have missed them while leaves were in peak colors but still excited for the peace and solitude of fresh air, listening to the birds early morning chatter, and the occasional worry a bear is lurking in the woods, waiting to chase me.

Should the weather allow, I’m going to try and get my act together for a garden clean up. Last year I decided what the heck and left everything in. Oh, how I regretted that laziness, so here’s hoping current Jennie makes future Jennie very proud come spring 2021. In the meantime, here’s some favorite recipes if your mind is wandering towards warm spices, apples and baking treats. -xo