My darling ,

How are you doing?

October is here, and for me it’s already shaping up to be a full and busy month. At work, I’m in the thick of project delivery (you know that period when deadlines seem endless and days feel like a blur 🙈).

I’m definitely guilty of forgetting to pause and breathe. But I keep reminding myself: breaks are not a luxury, they’re fuel. And I know you can relate.

That’s why I’m extra looking forward to Herfstvakantie — a chance to slow down, and also something special: I’ll be taking my son to Lisbon! On the surface, it’s a little family adventure, but it’s also location scouting for our fabulous Nariva ladies group trip in March. (I want to try out restaurants and meet suppliers! ✨)

In the meantime, here’s your October Reset Guide: cozy rituals, nourishing recipes, and little sparks of inspiration to help you slow down and enjoy the season.

🎃 Nourishing & Soulful Pumpkin Soup

Even as the autumn days grow grey and crisp, you can bring a little adventure to your kitchen. This pumpkin soup with coconut milk and a hint of red curry paste has a gentle Asian-inspired twist — comforting, creamy, and warming, yet just a little unexpected. Perfect for a cozy night at home while your mind drifts to faraway flavors.

🕯️ Cozy Hygge Home

Imagine an afternoon wrapped in a soft blanket, a warm drink in hand, and the gentle hum of soulful melodies filling the air. This playlist is your soundtrack for those moments—soft, soothing, and perfectly imperfect. Whether you're curled up with a book or simply enjoying the quiet, let these songs bring a touch of warmth and tranquility to your day.

🍁 Embrace Autumn with Gentle Self-Care

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it's the perfect time to nurture yourself with simple, seasonal rituals. This article offers 10 thoughtful self-care tips to help you slow down and savor the fall season. From cozying up in thick woolly socks to embracing the scents of autumn, these ideas are designed to bring comfort and calm to your daily life.

📺 A Dark Indulgence

Some evenings are made for curling up with a series that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The Girlfriend on Prime Video is just that—a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of love, manipulation, and maternal instincts. With a protective mother who becomes suspicious of her son's new girlfriend, the series explores the tension between these two strong-willed women. With its twisty narrative and compelling performances, it's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of drama with their autumn evenings.

🍎 Sparkling Fall in a Glass

When the golden hues of autumn begin to paint the world outside, it's time to indulge in a drink that mirrors the season's warmth and sparkle. This Apple Cider Spritz combines the crispness of apple cider with the effervescence of prosecco and a splash of Aperol, creating a cocktail that's both refreshing and cozy. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a wedge of apple garnish add the perfect finishing touch.

🏛️ A Hidden Autumn Gem

If you’re looking for a little real-world inspiration this month, join us for a guided group visit to Wintertuin Ursulinen on October 25. This hidden Art Nouveau gem, once a prestigious international girls’ boarding school, is pure magic — from the delicate glass ceilings to the intricate interior details that make you pause and breathe. The group is already filling up, and there are only a few spots left, so it’s the perfect autumn outing to enjoy beauty, calm, and a touch of enchantment together. Reserve your spot here.

📓 Journal Prompts for October

Sometimes the best way to slow down and reconnect with yourself is with a pen in hand and a quiet moment to reflect. Here are a few gentle invitations to get your words flowing, helping you notice what this season is asking of you and to create a little space for calm, clarity, and self-compassion in your life:

• What am I ready to let go of this season?
• What small rituals might help me feel steadier in October?
• If I could whisper something kind to myself this month, what would it be?

🎧 A Perfect Escapist Listen

If you’re craving a little getaway without leaving home, Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld is your ideal companion. It follows a late-night comedy writer, as she navigates an unexpected romance with a pop star. Witty, charming, and effortlessly engaging, this audiobook lets you slip into someone else’s world for a while—full of humor, heart, and the kind of escapism we all need every now and then.

✈️ March Getaway: Lisbon Awaits

And finally, my darling, a little reminder of something to look forward to: our fabulous Nariva ladies group trip to Lisbon in March. Think sunlit streets, colorful tiles, delicious food, and moments designed just for you to relax, connect, and recharge. It will be the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring while treating yourself to an unforgettable escape with like-minded women. Spots are limited, and I’d love for you to join us on this journey. Discover more and reserve your spot here.

Whether October finds you savoring crisp mornings, indulging in little comforts at home, or seeking moments of calm amid a busy month, remember: your reset is yours to shape. A few intentional pauses, tiny rituals, or gentle indulgences can help you feel grounded, inspired, and a little enchanted as the season unfolds.

Here’s to your October reset — a month of mindful moments and quiet joys.

Love,

Caro 🍁