“The thing with October is, I think, it somehow gets in your very blood. Unapologetically. Almost ruthlessly.” 

–Anne Sexton

I’m not sure about the ruthless part, but I definitely feel October in my bones. It’s not profound to admit that this season far surpasses all others. In fact, this statement gets thrown around so often that Fall gets a bad rap for being basic. But what’s so basic about trees that turn into fiery canopies that shade our streets? I think we favor Autumn due to its fleeting beauty. There are only a handful of days filled with vibrant colors, deliciously crisp weather and nights where it’s perfectly acceptable to watch spooky movies on a school night. We have a keen awareness of the fact that the days are going to become miserably short. So yes, I will take this opportunity to light all the chai spiced candles, make all the hearty stews, put up horrifying outdoor displays to scare the neighborhood kids, and find a costume that will be so good, no one recognizes me on Old South Gaylord Street on Oct 31st.

We hope this issue puts you in the mood with the stunning art of Julian Barber. Feeling witchy? Head straight for our front feature where we introduce you to Confia Collective. Then swaddle yourself in corduroy and cashmere, put on Rosemary’s Baby and devour that miniature, Almond Joy.

Your neighbors, 

Shaleen and Sam DeStefano