It was a gorgeous afternoon and no one was about since it was mid week. Luckily even in Maui, you can find little stretches of beaches all to yourself. The water was a brilliant turquoise and there was gentle breeze. There were a few small waves to be had even as the seasons change. Even though it’s November, it still feels like summer in my mind!

At this time of year, I have been yearning for those warm autumnal flavors. When the cooler temperatures come around, I find myself baking more often especially comforting goodies. Back home, cider donuts are real treat in the fall.

I was craving a cozy warm soup the other day and remembered this classic from home. It’s perfect for an autumn outing and easy to transport in a hot thermos on a fall hike. My boyfriend made this grainy whole wheat bread which was a tasty compliment to soak up the soup. Feel free to improvise adding sweet potatoes or pumpkin.

In the late afternoon I took a quick visit to the local pumpkin patch at Kula Country Farm. The farm overlooks the South Side and the West Maui Mountains. Nestled in a small valley, the field was overflowing with so many beautiful autumn colors.

Every season has it’s color story — summer with its vibrant green hues, spring and it’s soft and muted tones, winter with crisp whites and blues. Autumn is no exception and perhaps the most vibrant of them all.

With summer coming to a close as Autumn creeps in with a slight chill and crisp air, I love to be outside as long as I can in these days. You feel a change coming and see it in the garden and the apple that dot the trees in the orchard.

I needed some space the other evening to creatively step back as I continue on my new creative endeavor. The cliffs of the North Shore coast of Maui resemble Ireland or Scotland in my mind.

As much as I love the ocean and island life, my trip back home to Vermont was deeply restorative. It was exactly what I needed to recharge and fill myself up again. One paradise to another in my eyes.