Alright, folks, summer has bid us farewell, and if you’re navigating motherhood for the first time in fall, it’s time to gear up for some seasonal must-dos. Whether your child is a few weeks old or a decade old, you need to tackle this autumn checklist before Thanksgiving rolls around. It’s essential — after all, it’s officially fall!
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Visit a Pumpkin Patch.
Even if your infant doesn’t know what a pumpkin is yet, it’s time to bundle up, grab your diaper bag, and head to the patch. Pushing a stroller through muddy fields while snapping a photo of your baby with a tiny pumpkin is a rite of passage. Don’t forget the hayride — your child will likely squirm and complain, but that’s part of the experience. And yes, there will be a candy apple involved, which will result in a sticky situation and judgment from other parents. Remember, no substituting with apple orchards; the pumpkin patch is a non-negotiable. -
Get Crafty with Decorating.
By October 1st, your front door needs to flaunt some seasonal decor, whether it’s a witch, a pumpkin, or a “Give Thanks” sign. If you’re not crafting with your kids, consider yourself on thin ice. Pinterest has some easy ideas, or you can just pile up a bunch of gourds on the mantel and light a pumpkin-scented candle in the bathroom. But let’s be real, some handmade decorations never hurt anyone. -
Pumpkin Carving Time.
Forget the painting; if you’re a serious mom, you’re carving pumpkins. Sure, the kids will start out excited but will quickly lose interest as they discover the pumpkin guts are slimy and gross. You’ll be left to finish the designs on your own, likely after a long, messy night. But those pumpkins will grace your porch — at least until they rot away in two days. -
Coordinate a Fall Family Photoshoot.
Is everyone wearing boots? This is crucial. Don’t even think about hiring a photographer if you aren’t all dressed appropriately. Matching sweaters are a must, and if your daughter’s new boots hurt, too bad — she’ll have to power through. Find a scenic spot with fallen leaves and ignore the mud. This picture will be the one you send out for holiday cards, so it must be perfect. -
Be Prepared for Temperature Swings.
Fall can be a wild temperature ride. One moment it’s chilly, and the next it’s warm. A true mom knows to stash backup clothing in the car — from shorts to snow boots. Be ready for anything that comes your way! -
Embrace Slow Cooker Meals.
If you don’t own a Crockpot or an Instant Pot, it’s time to make a change. By the end of fall, you should have made at least three of these staples: chili (bonus points for variety), hot apple cider, chicken noodle soup, and a hearty stew. Don’t forget to incorporate some apples from your orchard visit into a dessert. -
Watch Football (Whether You Like It or Not).
Football is a fall staple, so accept it. It’s on all weekend, whether you’re a fan or not. Use this time to make those crafts while the game is on in the background. And while you’re at it, impress your friends with your pumpkin seeds or a delicious fall snack. -
Light Something on Fire.
Between now and Christmas, you need to have a bonfire or roast marshmallows. Capture that perfect moment of your child holding a roasting stick — just be ready to react quickly if they get too close to the flames. This can also be a fun addition to your pumpkin patch trip, but don’t let melted s’mores ruin your family photo.
So there you have it — eight essential tasks for the fall season. They’re not too overwhelming, right? Just make sure everything is completed by Thanksgiving because the winter holiday list is an entirely different beast.
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