This year, October felt like three months packed into one—full of things to do, Halloween preparations, and slowly getting in the mood for the colder seasons (even though it’s not that cold here in California… yet). It was a long month, but I’m happy I still found time for two of my favorite things: reading and drawing. Here are a few things that made this month special:

1. Painting Pumpkins Above the City

I kicked off the Halloween spirit early this year, painting and decorating pumpkins at a pre-Halloween celebration up in the sky at Salesforce Park. There’s something magical about doing a cozy fall activity surrounded by the skyline and all the greenery.

2. This Ceviche in Sausalito

Sausalito has been one of my most frequent weekend destinations lately (maybe because Hans and I both love ferry rides?). This ceviche from Copita Tequileria y Comida is one of the best I’ve ever had—the coconut milk makes all the difference!

Watching the Planes at Fleet Week

I love doing this every year. It’s one of my favorite San Francisco traditions.

Apple Picking Season

Going to an apple farm in October has always been one of our favorite ways to say goodbye to summer. And of course, it’s the perfect excuse to bake an apple pie at home.

San Francisco After the Rain

And this beautiful evening light.

Getting My Hair Done

After more than six years, Eclipse Salon is still my favorite place in San Francisco for hair coloring. I totally recommend it, especially if you have (or want) blonde hair.

A Walk at the Filoli Garden

I come here no matter the season. Filoli is one of the most peaceful spots around San Francisco, beautiful in any weather. Last month, we also visited the Halloween-decorated mansion and explored all the outdoor decorations.

Buds & Blossoms

Speaking of Filoli, I stumbled upon this little gem—Buds and Blossoms—while wandering through the gardens. I’ve always loved their shop—you can always find pretty things there.

This Color Combo

I love adding a pop of color on a dark, foggy day.

More Rainy Days

This year, the rainy season in San Francisco started early, and I’m more than happy that we can both wear our rain boots.

Getting Back to Illustration

After a long break, I finally opened Procreate again. Drawing always grounds me—it’s my way of slowing down when life feels too fast. (I’ll share one of my new designs here soon!)

Maple Ice Cream

Ever since I had maple ice cream for the first time in Vancouver, I’ve been hooked. There’s only one place I know where I can find it here: Lappert’s in Sausalito.

Spooky Reads

I like to get into the mood with the books I read—always! So this year, for Halloween, I read The Haunting Season, a collection of ghostly short stories (some of them really good). And I heard the Christmas edition is even better…

My Little Girl Dressed for Halloween

❤️