It’s been some time since I last wrote about my favorite things, so it’s time to revive the “What I Loved Last Month” series! October was packed with all sorts of fun, from visiting pumpkin patches and Halloween parties to exploring a nearby castle and discovering new favorite books (and toys, of course).
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Here’s a look at what made October special for me—from the little moments that brought a smile to my face to those that created lasting memories. I hope this brings you a bit of inspiration or just a nice read to enjoy. Let’s dive in!
1. My Favorite Short Trip: Visiting a Castle in Napa
We love castles, and Hansi is obsessed with them! A quick weekend trip to Europe may not be the easiest thing to do, but a short drive to Napa is much more doable. We had known about Castello di Amorosa for a while but had never visited, so last month, we decided to hop in the car and see what this Napa castle was all about. Built in the 13th-century medieval style, the castle closely resembles an Italian fortress from that era. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, sip wine (or grape juice for the kids), and visit the adorable farm with sheep and hens. It’s a perfect weekend activity for both adults and kids! Tip: Reserve tickets in advance.
2. My Favorite Book: Valley of the Moon
If you love a mix of fantasy, time travel, and romance, you would love to read Valley of the Moon! It’s beautifully written and keeps you hooked until the last page. Plus, the story unfolds in and around San Francisco and Sonoma!
READ MORE: How to read more books in the new year
3. My Favorite Kids’ Activity: Visiting a Pumpkin Patch
Every year, we have a tradition of visiting (at least) one pumpkin patch. This time, we started with Spina Pumpkin Patch. It’s a large venue with plenty of attractions for kids—we especially loved the tractor rides. Just be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
READ MORE: 10 Advent Calendars we love for the holidays
4. Seeing the Blue Angels
A true San Francisco tradition, the Blue Angels air show is part of the city’s annual Fleet Week celebration. We always make our way to Pier 39 to catch their breathtaking performance. It’s an experience that never gets old.
5. Making Lemon Tiramisu for the First Time
I love Tiramisu, but I also love lemons. Actually, I think I love lemons a bit more than Tiramisu, so last month, I tried this new recipe for Lemon Tiramisu! It’s delicious and easy to make!
6. Decorating for Halloween
With Hans’s new room finally ready, we’ve started decorating for every holiday. This year, we had so much fun putting up Halloween decorations.
READ MORE: How to dry orange slices for decorations
7. Coconut Latte from Home Coffee Roasters
One Sunday, on our way to the beach, I really needed another coffee, and we stumbled upon Home Coffee Roasters. They offer all kinds of creative lattes and toasts. We tried the Coconut Latte and Hazelnut Latte, both delicious, but the Coconut Latte was absolutely amazing!
8. Getting My Hair Done at My Favorite Salon in San Francisco
It’s been six years since my first visit to Eclipse Salon, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else to get my hair colored!
9. The Newest Addition to My Cookbook Collection
Food to Die For is the newest addition to my cookbook collection, and I read it just in time for Halloween. It’s filled with recipes from some of the most haunted places in America and fun stories about old hotels, ships, and inns. I’ve already marked a few recipes to try later!
10. A Fairy Tulle Skirt
I adore tulle skirts, and this month, I found a beautiful blue one that has become my absolute favorite.
11. A spooky Halloween Party
This year’s Halloween party turned out even better than expected, with plenty of candy, dipped apples, and spooky decorations.
12. My Favorite Quote
I think we all need this from time to time (or maybe every day at the end of the day?)
13. This Adorable Bento Lunch Box
I was on the hunt for a cute, sturdy lunch box for Hans, and I found the perfect one! It holds strawberries, biscuits, cheese, and other snacks, making it ideal for picnics or snack time at the playground.
READ MORE: Sugar Cookies Easy Recipe
14. Favorite Toy of the Month: Peppa Pig Letters
Hans is a big fan of letters and numbers, and his collection of letter-themed toys is growing. This month, we added the Peppa Pig Letters set. It’s fun, colorful, and easy to carry around without spilling pieces everywhere.
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