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Favorite Fall Patterns

Fall and winter are by far my favorite seasons to make some crochet goodies for. So as much as I’m a summer baby and crave the warm sunshine of a summer day, I also love cozy fall crochet projects.

I decided to put together a list of my go-tos that I’ve made myself and always bring me joy when I pick up my crochet hook to work on. I’m sure that these are not going to be my only things that I crochet throughout the autumn, but I definitely wanted to share this list for those who are looking for some inspiration.

Pumpkin Pie Pillow: I made this pillow last year and I absolutely loved making this, but this has been on my bed for over a year at this point. My dog loves laying down on it, and it was so easy to make. This pattern is the perfect one to make for easy fall decor. The only thing that I will say to those who do want to make this is that it takes up a lot of stuffing so make sure that you’re fully stocked before picking up the hook.
Turtle Trunk Pumpkin I have made this pattern for many years, and it’s still a go-to for me. I love that this works with three different weights of yarn, that this works up so quickly, and that this makes great gifts. It’s also great for using up some scrap yarn that you have lying around the house, which we all love a scrap buster.
Ghosts: I made these for a spooky bride’s bridal shower, and needless to say, they went over very well. This pattern was so easy to make, and worked up so quickly! They are perfect for those who are looking for an easy make for markets, or just love ghosts to use for the spooky season.
Sunflower: Sunflowers to some are a more of a late summer flower, but for me, I associate them with fall too. This pattern came in a pack with other flower options, so if you want to make some for other seasons or for gifts, that’s an option as well. However, this pattern was really fun to make, and it is easily one of my favorite pieces that I’ve made for myself.
Fall Dolls : Out of the three dolls in this pack, I made the pumpkin doll, but I really enjoyed making her so much I couldn’t not leave this pattern out! In addition to the pumpkin doll, there’s a scarecrow and a Frankenstein modification, so you can make a lot from this pack.
Mushroom: Another super easy and adorable pattern! I made this one as a Christmas gift last year, but am so tempted to make one for myself! It worked up so quickly, and the person that I made it for absolutely loved it.

What are you crocheting during this fall season? Let me know in the comments below.

August Favorites

Welcome to the “ber” months, everyone. Fall in New England is something that is unmatched. I can’t wait for the apple cider donuts, the crunch of the leaves underneath my shoes, and the delicious taste of pumpkin spiced lattes lingering in my mother. I’m sad to leave summer 2025 behind, but I’m looking forward to the new season.

But before that, I want to take a moment to share some of my favorites for the month of August.

Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston: This book was something that I just couldn’t put down. Poston is one of my favorite authors and one that I pick up the moment that she comes out with a new book. This one is about a songwriter who goes home to her North Carolina small hometown. The fantasy elements in this story was amazing, and I enjoyed everything about this book.
Kindle Colorsoft: I recently got a Kindle Colorsoft when it was one sale and I’m so happy that I did. I love reading magazines and being able to see the covers in color.
R and Co Cool Wind Air Dry Crème: My mother in law gave me this air dry crème, and this has been my go-to with my new short haircut. I love that this smells great, and it leaves my hair looking polished and frizz-free. Once I’m done with this, I will definitely be repurchasing.
Free People Baby Emerson Bag: This bag is becoming my favorite bag that I’ve purchased in 2025. I love how slouchy and roomy this bag is. I love the crossbody strap. I enjoy the top handle. It’s a really good bag because it’s effortless, so I recommend it.
Don’t Open Your Eyes by Liv Constantine: I love Liv Constantine so much, so I devoured their latest book this month. It was a great way to help increase the amount of books that I’ve been reading on my 2025 reading list.

August Fiber Faves

It’s the end of August, so if you crochet, you immediately think of two things. One, it’s time to break out all of the fall crafts. Two, you better get started on making all of your holiday gifts, because Christmas is literally around the corner.

Well, before we get to that point, let’s take a moment to share some of my fiber faves for the month. I will say that I did a lot of crocheting during the month of August from plushies to garments. However, these projects have been the ones that I constantly go-to.

Ivy Cardigan by Hooks and Heelers: I love, love, love this pattern. I love that this is a free pattern too. I am so happy that I’ve gotten to make this this summer, and even to be able to wear it a few times. This was super easy to work up, which is one of my favorites. I definitely want to make another in a black color, as that will be great in my wardrobe.

Duck Pattern: I made a pink and a mustard colored duck, and I absolutely love this. This was a free pattern that I also found on Instagram and it also worked up so quickly. It also does not use a lot of yarn, so it’s the best for using scraps.

Hexagon Cardigans: This has been my favorite thing to make as of late. I have finished two this month, and I’m currently working on another as a gift for my grandmother. These are really fun to make, and they definitely work up so quickly. I definitely think that I will be making more as the fall season goes on.

Starfish: Last but not least, I made this starfish pattern by BekMakesCrochet this month and I absolutely loved it. This pattern was really fun to make and it’s something that I actually enjoy looking at.

What are you most excited about making this fall?

Q and A with Laura Dostillo, Owner of Life Story

They say that a picture is one thousand words, so I think that a video is essentially priceless. Life Story knows the value of those stories. The company, which was started by Laura Dostillo and her husband when they themselves were looking for a way to tell the story of Dostillo’s own grandmother.

I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Dostillo about Life Story’s wonder inception as well as the impact that it currently has. As someone that has lost a loved one an incredibly young age, I cannot underscore the value of maintaining someone’s story, not only for purposes of family tree, but also of lineage. Read on to learn more about the wonderful business that Life Story is.

What inspired you to start Life Story?

My grandma inspired me. She was 98 when my husband, a TV producer, had the idea to film her and I am so grateful that we have a beautiful video keepsake of her now that she has passed. I miss her every day and we are so grateful to have her laugh, smile, voice, and the look in her eye when she says our name to cherish forever and share with future generations.

What is the process of getting a video done through Life Story? How do people get the final product?

1. Fill out the intake form so we can tailor questions to your needs.2. We schedule an interview with your loved one and travel to them to film them. 3. We edit the video and send it to you. We want you to be completely satisfied with your video so you have the ability to let us know what edits you want. You will receive an unlisted youtube link and digital download link to have forever.

How do you come up with questions for loved ones?

I send you an intake form of what areas the video should focus on (family history, childhood, love, career, traditions, advice). I tailor the questions based on what the family or person wants to talk about.

The Life Story interview is a conversation — your loved one can share whatever they want, and we engage them about their happiest memories to inspire more stories about their past. Clients feel comfortable and at ease during our interview process.

How much does it cost to get a video done?

We have 3 packages (Bronze, Silver, Gold) for filming 1 person and couples and they are priced based on the length of filming and the length of the final video.

Why do you believe it is so important to preserve the memories of loved ones?

Family stories communicate traditions, values, and experiences. We learn so much about ourselves and our family when listening to unique life stories, especially when shared by our older loved ones. They have deep, rich experiences and carry wisdom that is so valuable. However, our lives are busy, and we don’t often get to simply sit, listen, and enjoy.

Life Story leaves your family’s next generations with a video they will get to watch, learn from, and treasure. But it’s more than just a video — it’s a legacy that lives on.

Alden and Mara: The New Jewelry Brand That You Need to Know About

It seems like jewelry brands are popping out of the woodwork these days, especially the tarnish free ones that could be worn in all kinds of elements. However, only some of them stand out as being a produce that is true to its word.

That brand is Alden and Mara.

Alden and Mara is a new jewelry brands that offers pieces in sterling silver, gold plated, and 14k gold. They have a wide selection of earrings at all price points.

According to their website, the name “tells a story.” The site says Alden means “old comfort and familiarity,” while the name Mara means “calm” and “peaceful.” The brand has an old money focus, but honestly, I can see the brand becoming a go-to that is accessible to all.

The brand kindly reached out to me to see if they could send me a few of their new pieces, and after looking at their website, I couldn’t resist! I was sent the sterling silver tube hoops in the 4 x 40 mm size and the double channel set CZ Huggies in gold plated. Both of these pieces were absolutely gorgeous and made wonderful additions to my ear stack.

The sterling silver tube hoops made the perfect statement piece if you ask me. I love hoops, but I don’t love when they are on the heavy side. Despite their size, they were not heavy in my earlobe whatsoever. I wore them to work, and I felt so fierce when I had them in.

The huggie hoops were also a great addition to my stack as well. I have multiple piercings, so I enjoyed that I was able to use these in both my first and second piercings. These were easy to put in, and they didn’t bother me for the entire day.

Both pairs of earrings did not bother this sensitive skin girly whatsoever, which is a major plus. They also are a sustainable and ethically sourced brand, which is a major plus if you ask me.

If you’re in the market for some new staple pieces or if you want to just treat yourself to a little sparkle, Alden and Mara is your girl.

*In full transparency, I was sent these pieces in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100 percent my own.

Friday Faves: August 15, 2025

TGIF! There are a few weeks left of summer, and I am soaking in every minute of sunshine, the pool weather, and time spent doing outdoors. That being said, I wanted to take the time before we entered the weekend to share some of my favorites of the week.

The Rumor by Elin Hilderbrand: I finally picked up one of Hilderbrand’s books, which have become my go-to summer reads. I have been so invested with this story, which is about two best friends whose children are dating. But there are so many more layers that make this story oh so juicy and I just can’t put this down.

Lavender Necklace: My husband, mother in law, and I went to the lavender farm last weekend, and I could not resist this necklace. It has been my go-to piece for the past week, and I’m so happy that I grabbed it. The calming energy alone was so worth it.

Olivia Engel Jewelry: I have also found another go-to jewelry designer — Olivia Engel. I saw her pieces on another local blogger, and I knew I had to add one of her pieces to my own collection. I grabbed a charm necklace and bracelet, and am eagerly awaiting one of her fishes. She was amazing to talk to, and I can’t wait to add another piece to my collection soon.

Olivia Dade Books: Over the past weekend, I finished All The Feels and Shipwrecked, which were books on my TBR for what it seems like forever — probably when I read Spoiler Alert back in 2021. I am so happy to cross these off of my TBR this year.

Kindle Colorsoft: Last but certainly not least, I want to chat about my newest toy, the Kindle Colorsoft. I grabbed this guy after Best Buy had a sale that was too good to pass up, and I’m obsessed. I’m looking forward to binging magazines in pure color on this device, but I have Ben reading regular novels on it as well.

Sunshine Ceramics Is A Ray of Sunshine

The shops at Downtown Milford have been undergoing a major transformation. One of those shops that has done so was Sunshine Ceramics.

That being said, Sunshine Ceramics is not new to the Downtown Milford area. The shop arrived to the downtown scene a few years ago, but in 2025, it had expanded into the former S.V. Decker space that was once their neighbor.

Sunshine Ceramics is the perfect place to be to create something. And there is so many ways that you can do so there. They offer walk in paint your own, classes, open studio, parties, and workshops. There are date nights, themed nights, and more — something that I truly enjoyed seeing, making creativity something that is a part of all aspects of life.

According to the about page on their website, the studio is owned by Marie, a special ed teacher who left education to pursue her love for art and ceramics. Her goal for the space was to create “artists to come and gather; share creativity, inspiration, and passion; and to make facilities accessible to any and everyone who has an interest in clay, from beginners to experts.”

And I’d like to think that Marie succeeded in doing so. I had recently taken a class at Sunshine Ceramics, and I felt instant joy the second that I walked into the door. I’m not the most artistic person in the world when it comes to painting. However, Marie was still there for support and encouragement, but she gave the class enough creative freedom to follow every student’s vision without micromanagement. Furthermore, I found her to be both informative and entertaining when it comes to explaining things. I was able to leave class creating a mug and a jewelry dish that came out pretty good for someone who doesn’t do well holding a paintbrush.

The decor reminds me of everything you may need to inspire cozy creativity. As someone who is not the best when holding a paintbrush, I felt joy, inspired, and safe when walking through the doors. The mural on the wall is bright and colorful, which of course was painted by Marie herself. What I liked was that space paid tribute to its past occupants, there was sweets to honor Wanda’s Sugar Shack and crystals in tribute to S.V. Decker.

While I went there for just a class, I truly enjoyed visiting Sunshine Ceramics. Art is therapy, and I found the space to be a true ray of sunshine in a sometimes stormy world, between the aesthetic, and hanging out with Marie. Creating is encouraged there, and being able to do so in such a safe space has made me want to return for me.

However, I can’t leave you without mentioning my favorite part of my visits to Sunshine Ceramics, which is her dog, who is always hanging out the shop with Marie as well.

Art and dogs? I can’t think of anything else that is sunnier than that.

Pleasant Bay by Emily Wakeman Cyr Is the Ultimate Pleasant Beach Read

Pleasant Bay is the debut novel by Emily Wakeman Cyr, an author who left teaching to become a stay at home mom. She rediscovered writing, which then led her to open Colchester’s Folklore and Fable in 2024. When visiting the adorable bookstore a while ago, I decided that I needed to pick up Cyr’s novel.

Pleasant Bay takes place over the span of two decades. The first half of the story is told in alternative POVs between Sarah and her daughter Madelyn. Sarah’s chapters take place on Cape Cod in 2002, as she deals with post 9/11 life: her brother’s enlistment, her recent breakup, and her father’s illness. She visits her aunt for the summer, and she meets Luke, who is on the Cape playing baseball. The two have an instant connection. Madelyn’s chapters take place in Connecticut and Cape Cod in 2019. The first start out talking about Madelyn’s relationship with her mother, her boyfriend, and her constant curiosity about her father.

Both sides of the story create an intimate portrait of a family with secrets and how the relationships between members can change over time. I truly enjoyed this about the book. At the beginning of the book, the relationship between Sarah and Madelyn were strained. The same could be said about Sarah and her mother at the beginning of the novel as well. The one family member that everyone seemed comfortable with confiding in was Aunt Claire, the owner of the house that both women seemed to flock to.

Now, let’s talk about the romance. The main romance was between Sarah and Luke. They were truly my one true pair. In 2002, Luke took care of Sarah when she was sick, he can cook, and he was the perfect gentleman for Sarah. In 2019, he has an adorable dog named Wally, quickly adapts to being an amazing dad to his daughter, and is forgiving to Sarah.

This book was truly an amazing treat to read. Many of the times when I was reading, I was constantly saying to myself just one chapter and is the perfect read for a day at the beach and at the pool. It’s been a day since I’ve finished the novel, but I’m still thinking about the characters, the plot, and setting of it.

Cyr did a fantastic job with this novel, and I am very much looking forward to seeing what she does next.

Rating: 5 stars

July Favorites

I can’t believe that this is the first blog post of August. It seems like this year has flown by. I’m not ready for summer to end, so I am glad that I have one last month before the autumn chill hits.

Before Augusts slips away like a matter of time, I did want to take a moment to reflect on my favorites from this past month:

Free People Baby Emerson: I love this bag. I have used this pretty much for two and a half weeks straight, which if you’re a bag lover like me, you know that’s a long time to keep on using a bag. I love that this is just easy. It’s slouchy, it’s comfy, and it’s one of those bags that you can be carefree with. So far, the wear and tear have been pretty good. Some of the reviews online state that there’s a smell to it, but when I opened mine, I could not tell.

enewton: I’ve had these bracelets long before I was even married, and I’m still as obsessed. This month, mine have been on repeat with a few new additions to the collection. Yes, they are expensive. However, these are so durable and easy to wear. I have a larger collection, but considering my collection took me a few to accumulate, I think that’s okay.

Totally and Completely Fine by Elissa Sussman: I absolutely loved this book! Elissa Sussman has become one of my auto buy authors, and I enjoyed her latest release.

First Time Caller by B.K. Borison: This book was also another one that I devoured this month. I loved the concept of it. A single mom’s daughter called into a late night romance show, and agreed to go with a segment to update the audience on her dating life. So good.

Murder by Cheesecake by Rachel Elkstrom Courage: A Golden Girls cozy mystery was not on my bingo card for 2025, but something I truly enjoyed. You can read my review here.

July Fiber Faves

July has been a weird and long month for me between family things, my birthday and anniversary, and a staycation. Crocheting and knitting have come as a comfort but have also taken a backseat.

That said, I would still like to share my fiber faves for the month:

Embroidery: I got into embroidery a few years ago and made a few different pieces. However, I have been itching to pick it up again. I got this little guy from Hobby Lobby and have been slowly making progress. I have been enjoying it though so I can’t wait to see how it turns out.

Scrap Yarn Projects: This month has been a month of scrap pieces such as this blanket. I made two of these this past month and am planning to make more once we hit fall.

Granny Square Bag: Last but certainly not least, I crocheted this to stash bust. I love this kind of bag, but will definitely make improvements next time, such as making it larger and using cotton yarn. To make this, all you need to is make three granny squares and put them together. I can see myself making a ton of these especially in fall.