The first couple of days immediately following Halloween feel like a bit of a fever dream. While I’m taking inventory of any leftover candy bars following Trick-Or-Treaters visiting from the night before and calculating how long it will take before I eat it all, I’m also driving by a mix of both spooky decorations and Christmas decorations from those who begin getting into Holiday Season Mode at 12:01AM on November 1st (and honestly, I’m kind of one of them this year!) – all while the details of my holiday shopping list begin to take shape in the back of my head.
On Saturday, eager to enjoy the sun and the breeze and what’s left of the Fall foliage as we headed into November, I found myself in New Salem, Massachusetts – just in time for Cider Days Weekend! Some of you may remember my last venture to their renowned orchard last Fall. This time, however, I was stopping by to check out some art at the New Salem Museum and Academy of Fine Art.
While the exterior of the building looks like it’s someone’s house, the inside is filled with two floors of beautiful paintings, sculptures and glass work, all shining brightly through huge windows – with a cozy third floor dedicated to hosting classes and workshops.
That’s one of my favorite things about the chillier months – it’s officially “keep warm and wander a museum” season again!
On Sunday, I was feeling a little festive – despite my Fall décor staying put for the next couple of weeks – and I ventured out to Spencer, Massachusetts to browse the Oakwood Farm Christmas Barn, who celebrated their 50th Anniversary as of last year. The two-floor barn is covered from floor to ceiling with Christmas decorations, wreaths, collectibles, etc. in each and every room – including a nook dedicated to other holidays, too – like Halloween, Easter and St. Patrick’s Day.
I was awe-struck the minute I stepped foot in the barn, and it was impossible not to get into the Christmas spirit while there. I grabbed a couple of ornaments for both my tree in my apartment and my mom’s tree for when she sets it up shortly before Thanksgiving – and I know I’ll be bringing her there soon so she can pick out more stuff! They’re open year-round and daily, so if you’re ever in the area this holiday season – definitely stop by!
And now, with the clocks set back and it getting darker earlier in the day, I’m easing into a cozier, merrier state of mind as I gear up for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. While there’s still plenty to do within the next few weeks – I’m going to try to savor every minute of it!
A little later on this week, I’ll be sharing my current skin/hair care obsessions before I head down to North Carolina for a few days!
’til then!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 