Welcome, October 🍂

Fall gives us a beautiful, visual reminder that change is part of life. The colors around us invite us to pause and appreciate the passing of time—to notice what is changing, celebrate what has been, and gently let go of what we no longer need to carry. There is something both grounding and brave about allowing ourselves to move with the seasons of our lives, even when we don’t know exactly what comes next. As October settles in, we invite you to slow down, take in the beauty around you, and make a little space for reflection, release, and whatever new growth may be waiting just ahead.

Media of the Month

“Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?” by Dr. Julie Smith

This book offers the kind of honest, compassionate guidance so many of us wish we had received earlier in life. With warmth, clarity, and an approachable voice, Julie brings language to experiences that can often feel confusing, isolating, or difficult to name. Rather than offering rigid answers or quick fixes, she creates space for reflection, self-understanding, and greater compassion for the many ways we learn, grow, and move through change. Her insights feel validating without being overwhelming, helping readers recognize that they are not alone and that struggling does not mean they are failing. This is a thoughtful and accessible resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and the patterns that shape their lives—a meaningful reminder that greater awareness can open the door to healing, connection, and a more grounded sense of well-being.

Recipe of the Month

Tuscan White Bean & Kale Minestrone (Inspired by Ina Garten’s Winter Minestrone soup–also delish!)

Serves 6–8

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 Parmesan rind, optional
3 cups chopped kale, stems removed
1 cup small pasta, such as ditalini or small shells
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Build the vegetable base.
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 7–8 minutes, until softened.
Add the aromatics.
Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute.
Add the hearty vegetables.
Add the zucchini and sweet potato and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Make the soup.
Add the tomatoes, broth, cannellini beans, and Parmesan rind. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 20–25 minutes, until the sweet potato is tender.
Add the kale and pasta.
Stir in the kale and pasta. Simmer until the pasta is just tender, following the package timing. Add a little extra broth if the soup becomes too thick.
Finish it.
Remove the Parmesan rind. Stir in the lemon juice and ½ cup Parmesan. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper.
Serve.
Ladle into bowls and top with more Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of good olive oil.

Our favorite addition: A spoonful of pesto stirred into each bowl right before serving. It gives the soup that fresh, herby quality that makes a winter soup feel much lighter.

For a heartier version: Add 8 ounces of Italian chicken or turkey sausage, browned and crumbled before adding the vegetables.

Local Recommendation

Annual Witches & Warlocks Paddle

Celebrate the Halloween season with one of Bainbridge Island’s most spirited traditions! Witches, warlocks, and other costumed paddlers will take to the protected waters of Eagle Harbor on paddleboards, kayaks, and other watercraft. Bring your own vessel, dress in your most magical attire, and enjoy a playful morning of movement, creativity, and community.

Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Time: 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Location: Waterfront Park and Eagle Harbor

October Newsletter