The First Cozy Friday of October

Friday. First week of October behind you — a short one, just two days, which is the gentlest way a month can start.

I introduced the Cozy Friday Protocol last week, and October is where it earns its name. The evenings are dark by seven now. The air has that clean cold edge. And the whole world seems to agree that Friday night in October is for going in, not out — the blanket, the lamp, the something warm on the stove.

So: five-minute tidy. Note to Monday-you. Then the transition marker — and make it a good one tonight. Light the first candle of the season. Put on the sweater that lives at the back of the closet. Let your body know, clearly and physically, that the week is over and soft mode has begun.

You made it through the turn into October. Close the door on the week and be warm.

Friday night in October is for going in, not out. Close the door on the week and be warm.

What’s the first cozy thing you’re reaching for this weekend?