An Unexpected Fall Home Tour
Truth be told, this year’s Fall home tour is a bit unexpected.
I hadn’t planned on using these colors at all.
In fact, I went into the season fully prepared to use a delicious combination of coppers, chocolates, warm whites and pops of blush.
But on the day I was set to pick up the last of the supplies for the tour, I had a doctor’s appointment that didn’t quite go as planned.
I was sitting in the passenger’s seat of the car when a loved one broke the awkward silence.
“What are we thinking today? Chicken mini’s, a pumpkin loaf, pumpkin pancakes, a veggie omelet?”
“I think we should just head to Michaels and finish up the rest of the errands,” I said slightly overwhelmed.
“We always go out after your appointments. You sure?”
“I’m sure,” I replied.
The ride to Michaels was an unusually quiet one and as we pulled into the parking lot my loved one said, “I know today didn’t go as we had hoped. But maybe this means we need to widen our thoughts and start expecting the unexpected.”
“You’re right,” I said, “Life would be so much easier if it turned out in real life like I had planned in my head though.”
My loved one immediately started laughing and said, “I’m sure you’re not the only one who feels that way.”
As we walked into the store, I took out my list determined to stay focused on getting the essentials.
But as frequently happens, the aisles of seasonal décor were so warm and inviting, I decided to take a peek.
Surprisingly, I quickly fell in love with a garland featuring pumpkins, blue berry stems and a variety of leaves and greenery.
It wasn’t like anything I had planned on using though.
So, I got the other items I needed and headed to the checkout.
“I can’t believe you’re not going to get the garland. You seemed smitten back there,” my loved one said.
“I love it. I do,” I replied.
“But it looks nothing like the photos on my inspiration board. Remember? I’m using coppers and chocolates and warm whites this year. This garland has blue in it. I’ve never used blue in a Fall home tour before.”
My loved one smiled and said, “Maybe it’s time for something completely unexpected then.”
A few days later, I was on the phone with one of my cousins.
We’re incredibly close in age and have been raised like siblings because our moms are sisters and our dads are brothers.
Her mom is the aunt that’s been fighting breast cancer, so we’re constantly checking in with each other.
When I asked my cousin how things were really going, she said, “Seeing the outpouring of love, support and prayers this year has been such an unexpected blessing. It’s kept us going through all the ups and downs.”
And at that moment, I realized the unexpected could be a beautiful blessing instead of something to be feared or dreaded.
One of my favorite Morgan Harper Nichols quotes is, “Perhaps He is shaping you to fix your eyes on things above, so you will be reminded over and over of His love, His promises, and no matter what happens, there is still more to come.”
A gentle reminder that while the unexpected can be scary at first, it doesn’t have to stay that way.
I spent the rest of the weekend adding cozy touches around the house and decorating for Fall.
It was one of those windy rainy weekends perfectly filled with plenty of football, big pots of chili, pumpkin spice bars and moments spent snuggled up in my favorite old sweatshirt.
Truly, a special way to kick off all the good things Fall has to offer.
So, as we move forward into the season, I encourage you to embrace the unexpected in a completely fresh way.
When we approach each day with humble anticipation and an open heart, we learn to be flexible, to look for opportunities, to trust, to foster more positive experiences, to invite others into our lives and to enjoy the journey.
We learn to let go of our idea of what should happen and learn to embrace the goodness of what could happen.
After all, there is freedom in knowing we don’t have to have it all figured out.
Wishing you a season filled with unexpected blessings and adventures,
CoCo
Oh, my goodness! As always, it feels like you’re peering directly into my heart and life as it stands right now.
First of all, I’m so sorry about the doctor’s appointment. Those moments are always such a shock—I’ve been there, and I know I’ll be there again.
Second, hugs on the breast cancer situation in your family. A close family member of mine is facing metastatic breast cancer, and it has been incredibly difficult. I so admire how you’re supporting your loved ones through this.
And third, this line especially speaks to me: “Perhaps He is shaping you to fix your eyes on things above, so you will be reminded over and over of His love, His promises, and no matter what happens, there is still more to come.” My own vision of the divine is a bit different, but the truth of it still holds: we have to look up, think beyond ourselves, and keep noticing the beauty, kindness, and love—even in the hardest seasons.
Hugs, and maybe I’ll consider some blue autumn decor as well!
You always leave the most thoughtful comments, Corrie. Thank you so much! I’m sorry to hear about your friend with metastatic breast cancer as well. It is wild to me that we can put someone on the moon but haven’t been able to combat this deadly disease that affects so many families and friends. As you convey, it’s really easy to get caught up in our heads sometimes. Especially, when things feel out of our control. When we take the time to notice the beauty all around us though, we’re inviting in the promises of each day and all the unexpected blessings and gifts that come with it. Sending you lots of hugs and gratitude for all the ways you support the people on your path. They are so lucky to have you, CoCo
Thank you for taking the time to write such an amazing, encouraging post. Perspective and expectations make all the difference, especially when navigating healthy concerns. I hope you have a beautiful week!
I really appreciate your sweet words, Heidi. I know it’s hard to slow down and listen to our bodies sometimes but goodness it is a vital part of our wellbeing. Sending you hugs for a happy and healthy Fall, CoCo
Coco, thank you for sharing about this. Praying for you now–for your health and your heart as you navigate the unexpected.
And I love that garland too. I’m thinking I might need to make a trip to Michaels…
Big hugs!
LeAnne
Thank you, LeAnne. I’ve been praying for Mart as well. I never in a million years thought this year would be dedicated to all things health and wellness but I’m thankful for the opportunity to finally be able to prioritize it. Sending you hugs and wishing an amazing Fall season, CoCo
Beautiful post and home tour. Love the garland. Your post is inspiring as always. I hope your aunt is doing better. I hope you’re okay too.
Cindy
I appreciate that so much, Cindy, thank you! It’s definitely been an unexpected season but we’re learning to embrace each day with grace and possibility. Sending you hugs, CoCo