The wind picked up first, that kind of island wind that howls through the palm trees and makes you pause mid-sentence. Then the rain began to fall, followed by a low roll of thunder that settled in like an old friend. By morning, the storm had moved on, leaving behind the very thing I’d been waiting for — our first real hint of fall.

The air finally feels cool enough to turn off the AC. I’m in a hoodie and warm fuzzy socks and I can’t remember the last time that felt this good. The kind of good that makes you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and reach for a mug of coffee just to hold something warm.

The Bacon & Gruyère Drop Biscuits from Magnolia Table, Vol. 1 will go into the oven, and soon the kitchen will smell like butter and comfort. I’ll use my favorite scoop for the dough — it’s a small thing, but it keeps each biscuit perfectly sized while still looking homemade. I’ll fry a couple of eggs, slice up some fruit, and take my time.

For dinner, I’ll make the Bow Tie Pasta with Baby Kale and Sun-Dried Tomatoes from Vol. 1. It’s bright and full of color, the kind of dish that feels like a celebration of ordinary days. I’ll toss the pasta while it’s still warm so the kale softens just enough and the tomatoes release their flavor.

And tucked away in the fridge, there’s still Aunt Opal’s Banana Pudding from Magnolia Table, Vol. 1. The layers have settled, the flavors have deepened, and it feels like the perfect way to end a cozy day at home.

After the storm, the house feels quieter, calmer, lighter. Maybe that’s what fall is supposed to do — whisper instead of shout and remind us that change can feel gentle, too.

What’s on your menu?

Gracefully yours,

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