If you read The “Over 40” Summer Bucket List: Mature Women Do it Better, then you know that we mid-life gals still do it better!
So- are you ready to make the most of this fall season?
Of course you are!!
This blog post is all about treating yourself to some fun fall activities all while creating lifelong, and hopefully, nostalgic memories.
Sounds PERFECT? Awesome, let’s jump in!
What’s the Difference Between a Bucket List and New Year’s Resolutions?
A bucket list usually focuses on personal aspirations, often involving one-time experiences like witnessing the beauty of Lake Louise or jetting off to a Carpathian castle.
On the other hand, New Year’s resolutions are more geared towards self-improvement or enhancing one’s life in general.
They involve continuous efforts like waking up early, exercising, budgeting, and short-term endeavors leading to long-term objectives like weight loss and quitting smoking.
Resolutions are made at the start of a new year and are intended to be upheld throughout that calendar year.
In contrast, a bucket list allows us to pursue our lifelong dreams without restrictions on time.
Although the examples shared here are fall, or Autumn, bucket list items, they serve as a tiny, scaled-down, close-to-home version of a “lifetime” bucket list.
But however you define them- they promise plenty of fun experiences!
Welcome To Your Over 40 Fall Bucket List!
1.) Visit a Pumpkin Patch
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it’s time to indulge in all things fall. And that includes… visiting your local pumpkin patch!
Picture it- the sweet scent of pumpkin and hay, rows of pumpkins waiting to be picked, fall décor and activities- hayrides, corn mazes, and drinking apple cider.
With the warm sun shining down on your face, and the sights and sounds of the season, you’ll feel all sorts of cozy.
2.) Attend a Professional Sporting Event
This fall, experience the exhilaration, energy, and excitement that comes from attending a live sporting event!
And you don’t have to be a fan of basketball, football, or hockey (I’m not) to go, (but it might help to go with someone who is), because fan or not, you’ll still get caught up in the frenzy.
Make some plans with your sports-minded friends, wear the team colors, and most importantly- bundle up!
3.) Check out a Drive-In
Looking for a way to bring back some of that old-school nostalgia? -I always am!
What about heading out to a drive-in theatre, and catching a movie under the stars?
There really is something different about watching a flick in your car, snacking on some popcorn, and settling in for a night of entertainment.
Many regions do have drive-in theatres, you may have to search a bit, and even if it’s a bit of a drive- it’s worth it- and, it’s all a part of the “bucket list” experience!
Simply pack up the snacks and the blankets, take along your favorite person, and make the best of your retro-fun-night!
4.) Start a 10-Item Capsule Fall Wardrobe
One of the most exciting things about fall (besides the scents, sights, smells, and tastes), is of course- the fall clothing- the textures, the colors, the styles, and the accessories.
Generally, the following items are not included exclusively as part of your “capsule outfits.”
But they are a part of your annual fall capsule wardrobe, the difference being that these items don’t necessarily need to be changed or purchased annually and are not a part of the full-day wear and tear, but should still be stored away with your fall capsule wardrobe:
1.) Fall footwear: ankle boots, loafers, tall boots, mules, sneakers, Chelsea boots, oxfords. The more pairs you have, the more wear you distribute, the less wear and tear on individual pairs, and the longer your shoes last.
2.) Fall accessories: beanies, scarves, gloves, statement jewelry, belts, crossbody bags, backpacks. Same philosophy as above.
3.) 1-2 formal blazers– these are for the office and can be layered over your fall outfits to add sophistication if necessary. They probably won’t be worn often but can be gently cleaned and air-dried as needed.
4.) 1-2 fall exercise outfits: simply wash them regularly and air-dry as needed. The strong, durable material will last for many fall seasons.
5.) 1-2 sweaters or cardigans: these items will not wear quickly and can be kept for years. Hang dry.
6.) 1-2 jackets or coats: lightweight options such as denim jackets or trench coats are suitable for fall. Hang dry.
7.) 2-4 sets of warm fall sleepwear: wash gently, air-dry, and wear exclusively during the fall season to preserve the longevity of the fabric.
Your capsule wardrobe items for fall are as follows:
1.) 2-3 pants: corduroys, wide-leg trousers, jeans, leggings.
2.) 2-4 shirts: flannels, chambray shirts, turtlenecks, striped tees.
3.) 1-2 skirts: midi skirts, leather skirts, plaid skirts.
4.) 2-3 dresses: sweater dresses, shirt dresses, wrap dresses.
5.) 1 jumpsuit: opt for long-sleeved or layered jumpsuits for cooler fall temperatures.
5.) Learn Something New
Why not try something completely random and unique:
- Intro to Beer/Wine
- Photography
- Acting
- Ballroom Dancing
- Horseback Riding
- Psychology
- Music
- Intro to Travel and Tourism
- Martial Arts: Samurai Swordsmanship
- American Sign Language (ASL)
- Studio Arts (Pottery, Painting)
- Learning a new language
Keep your brain firing on all cylinders by continually seeking out new experiences and skills.
Check with local colleges, universities, community centers, or online learning platforms for the availability of these classes in your area.
6.) Go to New Hampshire!!!
Looking for the ultimate destination to experience gorgeous fall foliage? Hands down, it’s New Hampshire (or New England in general)!
This state is the perfect place to take in the crisp autumn air and the breathtaking colors of the changing leaves.
Go solo, take your partner, friends, or family, and drive along winding roads or stroll through charming towns, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect views to enjoy.
From breathtaking mountains to tranquil lakes to quaint villages and antique shops, New Hampshire truly has it all.
Make unforgettable memories in one of the most beautiful states in the US!
And if you can’t go to New Hampshire…
7.) Take a Hike!
Nature has so much to offer in terms of beauty and adventure, and getting out there and exploring it all is an experience like no other.
Hiking is a great way to clear your mind, get some exercise, and reconnect with the environment around you.
But honestly, it’s the scenery, the coffee in the thermos, your book, and the fall foliage that makes it all worthwhile.
8.) Go Apple Picking
There’s no better way to fully embrace the fall season than by going apple-picking.
Head out with friends, and family, and pick your own apples, for apple pie, apple crisp, apple oatmeal, apple muffins, apple cider donuts, and even DIY simmered-down apples, cinnamon, and cloves on the stovetop for the best-smelling house EVER.
9.) Host a Fall Weenie Roast
Invite your friends and family to hang out around a roaring firepit and make up a spread of wiener sausages, marshmallows, and hot chocolate- or better yet, have everyone bring something.
And as it gets darker tell some ghost stories, where ghouls, spirits, and mysteries lurk silently in the darkness.
Enjoy the spookiness and the laughs as the embers glow, and the harvest moon hangs on the horizon.
10.) Write a Memoir or Start a Blog
Starting a blog or writing a memoir is a great way to cozy up and reflect on your life experiences.
Sharing your unique wisdom and stories with the world can not only help others find comfort and inspiration but can add insights into your own life.
Imagine being curled up with a hot cup of tea, wrapped in a blanket on your patio, and just being able to write.
How cathartic!
11.) Splurge On A Sauna
Aaahhh… stepping into a warm, inviting sauna where you can bask in the heat, breathe in the warmth, and let all your worries melt away.
Saunas are perfect for when there’s a chill in the air and bonus- they have a tonne of health benefits, such as:
- promoting relaxation,
- aiding in detoxification,
- and improving circulation.
For more info, check out Exploring the Trend of Home Saunas: What You Need to Know, 9 Home Saunas That Will Transform Your Life, and The 7 Best Sauna Blankets and Tents: Unwind in Luxury.
Fall is a special time of year and it’s so fleeting!
Yes, fall might seem small in comparison to what summer has to offer but it brings its own beauty that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s truly my favorite time of year.
And Remember…
A bucket list is personal and should reflect your interests and aspirations.
Consider these ideas as inspiration and customize your own bucket list based on what resonates with you.