Hello dear friends,

If you have found your way here, I want to begin by saying how grateful I am that you have spent time with me Under an English Sky.

This space has been a quiet gathering place for the things we hold dear—home, the turning of the seasons, the beauty of the natural world, and the gentle rhythms that shape our days. It has been a joy to share these moments with you.

Over time, however, my writing has begun to settle more deeply into these themes, and I felt the need for a space that could hold that growth more fully.

I am now writing from a new home:

🌿 Seasons of Grace & Learning

You will find the same love of home, nature, seasonal living, and thoughtful reflection...nothing of that has been left behind. Instead, it has been carried forward and given room to flourish more intentionally.

If these are the things that have drawn you here, I would be so delighted to welcome you there.

I am now sharing regularly, and I would truly love for you to continue the journey with me.

You can find me here:
👉 https://seasonsofgraceandlearning.com/

Thank you, as always, for your kindness, your presence, and for being part of this unfolding story.

With love,
Shirley

Themes and Plans for October

In the season of mothering and educating my children, I began the habit of observing the seasons and trying to make each one special by thoughtfully planning activities that would bring a bit of what the season has to offer to our attention.

This has helped us live in the moment, slow down, and notice what each day, month, and season has to offer. It's about being aware of our blessings in every life season.

October always feels like the very heart of autumn to me. The trees are glowing with colour, leaves drift gently to the ground, and there’s still a little breathing space before winter comes knocking. It’s a month that invites us to pause and savour the season. I remember last October giving us some glorious days, and even now—despite the grey clouds and blustery winds (and the impending arrival of storm Amy tomorrow)—I’m hopeful for a few more soft, golden afternoons before the colder months arrive.

Because October holds so many simple joys and reasons to celebrate, I like to spend a little time gathering my thoughts and making some gentle plans. Out come the autumnal candles, favourite recipes, and weekly folders, ready to hold all those little touches that help me notice and enjoy the season as it unfolds. Here’s what I’m looking forward to this colourful, breezy month.

Folk law

Traditional Rhyme: Rain in October means wind in December

Gemstone: Opal or tourmaline

Flower: Marigold/Calendula

Full Moon: Hunters Moon (7^th)

Nature

• Apple and pumpkin picking!
• Autumn mists
• Cooler Temperatures
• Windy weather
• First Frosts
• Fly Agaric (those cute little red and white mushrooms) and other Fungi flourishing
• Shrubs and Trees heavy with autumn berries
• Busy Squirrels burying nuts in my lawn as they prepare for colder days
• Sloes ripening

Garden

• Rake up leaves
• Create insect hotels and hedgehog hideouts
• Empty out last of the flowering annuals
• Dig over beds
• Harvest pumpkins
• Wrap up and cover up frost sensitive plants

Home

• Canning and preserving the last of the harvest (loads of tomatoes in our case)
• Stock up on a few more blankets and hot water bottles
• Pantry list – stock up on winter staples
• Batch meal prep for the freezer
• Winter PJ’s for all and warm jumpers/jersey’s
• British Summer Times Ends – put clocks back 1 hour on 26^th

Food

• Bring out the crockpot!
• pumpkin pie
• Cinnamon Buns - try out flavour variations
• Apple crumbles and pies
• Cook up a variety of soups for the freezer. These make for quick and easy lunch options.
• I have loads of recipe ideas for pumpkins and apples and am eager to try them out - you can check them out on my Pinterest Board.

Faith -The Liturgical year

• St Francis of Assisi – 4^th
• St Luke – 18^th

Arts & Crafts

Autumn Leaf Suncatcher

Leaf Wreath

Leaf Lanterns

Painted Autumn Leaves

Natural Room Scents

Bees Wax Leaves

Check out my Four Seasons Pinterest Board for more ideas.

As the month unfolds, I hope you find little moments to pause and enjoy the beauty all around—whether it’s a walk under golden trees, baking something comforting in the kitchen, or simply sitting with a cup of tea and watching the leaves tumble past the window. October always feels like such a gift, a gentle reminder to slow down and delight in the season before winter makes her entrance.

May you experience God's blessings in you home this month.