I went through your answers to my survey earlier this week, and before diving into this week’s Love List, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who participated. You were so kind with your feedback, thoughtful with your suggestions, and generous with your time–I am so, so grateful! I’ve had more than a few moments of doubt and insecurity since turning my attention toward blogging in a more full-time way. Your feedback was the best reminder of WHY I love writing and creating here, when I’ve admittedly felt distracted by my desire to grow Something Pretty as a business. That’s certainly still the case, but I feel better equipped to move forward in a more confident, focused way, thanks to your encouragement. I appreciate that so much. Raising my first pumpkin spice latte of the season to you, friends!

1. We aren’t having a birthday party for Charlie this year but are still hoping to create an extra sweet day for him next week! Inspired by the dinosaurs we’re going to go visit at the local science museum (which opens for the first time since spring on Charlie’s birthday!), I picked up a few dinosaur-themed table goodies from this cute Etsy shop. They have some really cute pieces for all different themes and occasions. Save for at-home special days and future parties!

2. It looks like we’re going to be getting some fall weather this weekend, so we added our favorite chili to our meal plan. This healthy turkey chili recipe has been a staple in our house for years–we usually eat it with a side of cornbread and topped with corn chips, shredded cheese, and diced avocado. My mouth is watering already!

3. PSA: Trader Joe’s has vanilla pumpkin candles in stock! At only $4, they’re a steal, and I love that they smell festive without being cinnamon-y (I really dislike cinnamon in candles) or cloyingly sweet. I don’t even light them most of the time–just leaving the tins open makes the room smell so good.

4. If you’re expecting, have a new baby, or are shopping for a friend, don’t miss the cozy new fall colorways from Solly (this one is my favorite!) and Gathre. My Solly wrap and Gathre mini mat are two of my MOST beloved baby products and I love supporting these mama-owned small businesses.

This week, I’d love to hear about your birthday traditions! Whether ideas from your own childhood or traditions you’ve started for your own kiddos, I always love learning about new, thoughtful ideas. I have two things I’ve done for Charlie every year so far and hope to continue for Azelie too: decorating the house the night before so the birthday kid is surprised in the morning (something my mom used to do for us that I loved!) and writing a letter for them to open when they’re 18 (at which point, I plan to keep writing birthday letters–they’ll just be delivered each year).