☕️ A Cozy Seasonal Shift

everyday chaos and late summer/pre fall

Who knew Whataburger breakfast could be so therapeutic?

Oh hey. It’s me. Well, it's happening. School is days away, and I'm currently searching for therapist recommendations. I didn't realize how much I'd struggle with sending my son to school, but here we are! 

On a lighter note, I went to a weeknight concert and, surprisingly, stayed until the last song. On the way home, I even stopped for that familiar 11:00 P.M. Whataburger breakfast menu; honestly, it was a bit therapeutic.

previously on… chicken salad review, condensed milk brownies, and cozy loungewear

Meanwhile, my 20 to-do lists are sitting there, untouched, threatening a fun little breakdown at any moment. Silencing the part of me obsessed with these lists feels impossible, but I’m working on it because life is so much better without the constant worry of not doing enough. It’s not that serious. 🥹 🫶

A while back, I started keeping a list on my phone of little things that make me happy. I've seen this practice resurfacing, so I thought I'd share mine with you. It's been a game-changer, especially when I need a reminder to hit pause and savor the moment. Even on good days, I'm constantly adding new simple pleasures to the list. It's amazing how this tiny habit can help you rediscover joy in the everyday chaos.

• sleeping in after a long week 

• rediscovering a favorite movie

• people who just accept you for you 

• lying on the floor, closing your eyes and listening to the same song on repeat 

• the smell of coffee in the morning 

• gentle speakers 

• sleeping on new sheets 

• familiar voices on the radio 

• concert T-shirts 

• hope 

• listening to a whole album start to finish 

• homemade peach ice cream 

• the first sign of fall

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The Aesthetic:

Finding joy in the little things, cozy loungewear, hot coffee, everyday chaos, and fall decor before October.

earthy olive green, rich chocolate brown, and creamy buttery shades

Start by setting up your space and routine to enjoy the simple things. Get yourself some cozy loungewear that feels luxury but is still a good price, and make your morning coffee more of a special ritual than a crazy rush. Find joy in the little things amidst the everyday craziness. Switch up your decor to bring in those warm tones and textures that make you feel cozy, even before the leaves change.

The Approach:

ambient lighting, lots of texture, and warm scents

gold marble catchall // natural stone candle holder // fall juice glasses // tic-tac-toe

Upgrade Your Lighting: Swap out your bulbs for warmer tones to create a cozy atmosphere. Consider adding dimmable smart bulbs for ultimate control over your ambiance.

Neutral Tones & Rich Textures: Embrace fall with layers of earthy, muted colors. Incorporate throws and pillows in shades of taupe, slate, and cream.

Antique Finds: Fall is reminiscent of nostalgia and memories. Place a few antique pieces or vintage-inspired decorations around your living space.

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Insider Secrets:

Natural Elements: Add wooden bowls filled with pinecones or dried gourds to tables and countertops as centerpieces.

Artful Arrangements: Re-arrange your furniture for the new season. Angle your sofa toward the fireplace or a window with a particularly beautiful autumn view.

It's about framing moments.

Seasonal Pillow Covers: Switch out your summer pillow covers for richer textures like velvet or wool.

Top Tips:

August is for savoring the last bits of summer while preparing for the cozy charm of fall.

L.L.Bean // Edie top-handle bag // Recipe book // Ralph Lauren Bandana // Wallpaper

• Watch "Something's Gotta Give": Perfect blend of summer and fall vibes.

• Outdoor Movie Night: Hang a sheet and project a classic film in your backyard.

• Create a Family Recipe Scrapbook: Collect and document family recipes, perfect for cozy fall cooking.

• Sunday Breakfast Al Fresco: Set up a simple yet charming breakfast outdoors.

• Create a Seasonal Playlist: Music for cozy evenings or busy mornings.

• Quick Closet Refresh: Rotate summer clothes out, and bring in cozy fall layers.

• Weekly Fresh Flowers: Add a bouquet to brighten your space.

• Organize a Fall Playlist: Curate music that makes you feel cozy and relaxed.

• Simplify Your Space: Spend 10 minutes each day decluttering a small area.

Cabinista Weekly Special:

Loving, Not-So-Loving, Curating, Creating, Daily Chaos.

Loving

• Deli Containers: These come in several sizes and are super affordable (a pack of 36 for $20.95 on Amazon!) & LOGAN the cucumber guy iykyk

• Non-Stick Pans That Actually Work! HexClad: Known for its hybrid technology, combining stainless steel with non-stick capabilities—perfect for both novice cooks and culinary pros.

• Dragonfly Inn Gilmore Girls Incense Holder. Just pure, cozy nostalgia.

• Cakes covers: because sometimes, less really is more. These little wonders keep everything in place. Think of them as the chic, discreet accessory you never knew you needed—until now, you’re welcome. And tell me what you think of them!

• This Superhero Zara costume for my son, and it’s hands down the cutest Halloween outfit ever. I got it early because my mom sense said it would sell out waaay before costume season!

Not-So-Loving

Tried the marshmallow fluff Coke, and let’s just say it’s more of a "miss" than a "hit." Skip the marshmallow fluff Coke and indulge in a Fluffernutter with almond butter and Nutella—now that's a perfect 10 out of 10.

Curating

The Fall Capsule Wardrobe (Home Decor Edition): Curating a wardrobe that seamlessly transitions from late summer to early fall. It's all about layering with rich textures and neutral tones.

Premium Subscriber Events: Planning some exciting virtual gatherings where we can connect over our shared love of design and home. Expect insider tips, live Q&As, and exclusive content that you won't want to miss!

Creating

Mini Design Sessions! These quick, casual chats are my way of helping you deal with those little home design challenges that pop up. If you're stuck choosing paint colors or trying to figure out the best spot for that new chair, I’m here to help. Just quick advice to make your space feel more like you. Can’t wait to see where these take us!

I made them casual, because I know soooo many people that want to talk to an Interior Designer but are hit with the outdated price tag of doing so!

Daily Chaos

School is starting, and I feel much more emotional about the drop-off day than expected (have I already mentioned this? Oh well, I’m mentioning it again). Honestly, I've been a bit of a mess lately, feeling like tears could hit any moment. If you have any advice to help me keep it together, I could really use it.

Recipe of the Week: Decadent Condensed Milk Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup condensed milk

• Secret Ingredient: A pinch of Maldon sea salt for that irresistible sweet-savory edge.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

3. Add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.

4. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle condensed milk over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

6. Let cool before slicing into squares and sprinkle with Maldon sea salt.

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Love ya, mean it, bye!

Peyton.