Pumpkin Bread, Hunter Boots and Scarves

I know, I know; it's August 27. The official start of fall is still a few weeks away -- it happens on September 23, to be exact -- but in my mind, it has already arrived.

On Monday, I posted a photo of my pumpkin bread on Instagram (username is ablondeambition, if you like to keep on with folks on that platform), and had a few people ask about the recipe. I love sharing anything food-related, so here it is.

'Better than Cake' Pumpkin Bread
1-2/3 cups of all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
2 eggs
1 can pumpkin
1/4 cup of vegetable or canola oil
1/4 cup melted, unsalted butter

Directions

1. In a large small bowl, combine the flour, sugar (white and brown), baking soda cinnamon, salt, baking powder and nutmeg. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla, sour cream, pumpkin, oil, unsalted butter (melted) and water. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. 
2. Pour into a greased 9-in. x 5-in. loaf pan. Bake at 350° for 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Yield: 1 loaf (16 slices).

I've decided I'm definitely going to take the plunge on a pair of Hunter boots this fall. I figure, they'll probably be worn a lot if it gets nasty again this winter, so I may as well invest. And, if Mother Nature goes against the almanac and surprises us with a calm winter season, then I'll wear 'em anyway. Now the hard part...which color to buy? I'll probably go with basic glossy black to start and branch out with a fun color next time if I like them!

Scarves. Can you ever have too many? In my opinion, no. I've got my eyes on several, including these:

Cheetah Red Accent Printed Scarf

Soft Navy Jacquard Scarf from Zara

Lush Leopard Scarf from Forever 21

Tinley Road Faux Fur Infinity Scarf from Piperlime

Veronica Scarf from Banana Republic


Is fall on your brain, too? When does fall start in your mind?