“October proved a riot a riot to the senses and climaxed those giddy last weeks before Halloween.”
― Keith Donohue

It’s Halloween tomorrow, kittens! But before we go off to frolic (or indeed go home early like the responsible adults we are, blast it) let’s quickly discuss some of the things we loved this month. The weather may be growing chilly and the news may continue to vex, but pop culture and seasonal cuisine will get us through! Here are the things I loved this month, tell me what caught your eye or tickled your fancy in the comments.

Mindhunter, by Netflix
There are no two ways about it, this series is dark. It is loosely based in fact and tells the story of an FBI agent who spearheads a change in the bureau’s investigative tactics and mission. At a time when psychology is considered wishy washy by most agents, the main character has an idea: what if they interview serial killers (the worst of the worst) to build a profile of this “new” kind of criminal. And his research subject may be starting to rub off on him… The subject matter is rough–really rough–and this definitely isn’t for everyone, but I downed the series in a single sitting.

Mac matte lipstick in Chili
The weather is chilly and the sweaters are cozy. And I, dear reader? I am breaking out the matte lipstick in rich and darker shades. This lipstick shade is an oldie but a goodie and is honestly the kind of warm toned red that could look good on all skin tones–in a non bullshit kind of way. I heartily recommend if you’re looking with something with pigment payoff in an autumnal shade of rouge!

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine, by Gail Honeyman
I loved this debut novel by Gale Honeyman, set in Edinbugh and featuring the eponymous Eleanor Oliphant: a deeply socially awkward woman who lives a solitary life, for what turns out to be very understandable reasons. This character was so skillfully written. She is abrasive, odd, a bit self destructive, and pathologically out of step with her fellow men, and yet your sympathy and understanding remains firmly with her throughout the book. As more and more of her story is revealed and the full picture comes into focus, we follow her as she slowly begins to engage more “normally” with the world, and yet she remains solidly herself in a way that is refreshingly unapologetic and atypical. I didn’t love the final “twist” of the book, I have to say, but I enjoyed every other aspect of this book so tremendously that I could overlook a bit of a hiccup.

Barbour Jacket
British based kittens, high thee to CountryAttire.com! Jeff and I finally snagged our much desired Barbour jackets at a lovely price. Mine was this two toned beauty which I’ve worn pretty much every day since finding, but their overall selection is very, very good. If you’re looking to get in touch with your inner country gent or grande dame, go forth and frolic through the offerings.

Soup Season 
It had been an age since I made a proper pot of soup, but I’ve made both butternut squash and coconut soup, and good old fashioned leek and potato in the same week and it’s been so damn satisfying. When fall comes around, there is little better than soup with toasted bread and cheese for a meal. Here’s a pin board of my favorite recipes for your enjoyment, but I’m always looking for recommendations. Hit me up in the comments!