Alright, everyone, summer has bid farewell, and if this is your inaugural fall as a mom, let’s break down the must-dos for the season. You’ve got a checklist to conquer before Thanksgiving rolls around, and it’s crucial, regardless of whether your child is a toddler or a newborn. You MUST check off these items because it’s fall, and you need to embrace it. Let’s dive in!
1. The Required Pumpkin Patch Excursion
So your little one is just a few days old and clueless about pumpkins? Too bad! Load up that diaper bag and grab those snacks, because no parent can claim their title without shelling out ten bucks to trudge through muddy fields for a cute photo of your baby clutching a miniature pumpkin. And don’t forget the mandatory hayride, where your child will likely squirm in discomfort. Get ready for wailing, dirt stains, and a sticky candy apple that you’ll regret giving him after a long wait in line. And if you think you can skip the pumpkin patch for an apple orchard visit, think again. That’s not gonna cut it!
2. Crafts and Decorations Galore
Come October 1st, if your door isn’t adorned with a witch or a “Give Thanks” sign, you might as well hang up your mom shoes. Are you not grateful? Get your act together! While you can easily snag decorations from the store, it’s vital for your kids to whip up some spooky crafts too. Think ghosts or bats—easy peasy, right? If crafting isn’t your jam, at least place eight gourds on your mantel and light a pumpkin-scented candle to redeem yourself.
3. Pumpkin Carving—Messy and Fun
Let’s be real; painting pumpkins is for amateurs. If you’re a dedicated mom, you’ll scoop out those guts and roast the seeds. Your kids will start off excited to see their favorite character carved into the pumpkin, but boredom or disgust will set in quickly, leaving you to finish the job solo. The end result will go on display, even if it rots in a couple of days—because that’s what motherhood is all about!
4. Family Photo Shoot in the Fall
Alright, does everyone have their boots? Make sure everyone is dressed appropriately because a photographer won’t have it any other way. If your child’s new boots are pinching her feet, she’ll just have to tough it out. You’ll need to find a picturesque location filled with fall foliage, and despite the mud, aim for the perfect shot to send out with holiday cards. No pressure, right?
5. Be Prepared for Weather Swings
Expect drastic temperature changes because fall is unpredictable. A good mom will have extra clothing options in the car—light jackets, heavy coats, gloves, and even bathing suits because who knows?
6. Crockpot Cooking Extravaganza
If you don’t own a Crockpot yet, what are you even doing? Before the season ends, you must whip up at least three of the following: chili, hot apple cider, chicken noodle soup, a hearty stew, or a dessert made with those apples you picked yourself.
7. Football Watching—No Exceptions
Even if you despise football, it better be on your TV every weekend. College or NFL, it doesn’t matter. Use this time to tackle those crafts or serve up snacks. Your family will appreciate your efforts—even if the snacks are less than stellar.
8. Light Something on Fire
You need to create an open flame moment before the holidays. Roast marshmallows or start a bonfire—whatever you choose, just make sure to capture the perfect shot of your child holding that stick precariously close to the flames. Timing is everything, especially if you want an Instagram post to remember.
And that’s your essential list! Eight straightforward tasks to embrace the fall season. Just be sure to wrap them up before Thanksgiving because the holiday season brings a whole new set of challenges.
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