Self Care Sunday #3: A Touch of Magic

This post is part of the 100 Days ’til Christmas Challenge — one small step each day to make the holiday season less stressful and a lot more fun.

We’ve wrapped up another week in the 100 Days to Christmas Challenge! From welcoming the first week of October to planning early online shopping, baking, and hosting, this week had a little bit of everything. If you missed any posts, you can catch up on everything inside the Holiday Hub.

But today isn’t about checklists or to-dos — it’s about slowing down and soaking up the magic that October brings. The air is a little crisper, the candles are burning a little longer, and this week’s Self-Care Sunday is all about bringing a touch of cozy witchy magic into your weekend.

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📚 Something to Read

Brownies and Broomsticks by Bailey Cates

If you’ve been craving a cozy read with a little mystery, a dash of magic, and a side of baked goods, this one’s for you. Brownies and Broomsticks is the first book in the Magical Bakery Mystery series — and it’s everything you want in an October read.

It’s set in Savannah, full of small-town charm, and has just the right mix of witches, friendship, and delicious desserts. This is one of those stories you can curl up with under a blanket, sip something warm, and lose track of time — exactly how a Sunday should feel.

Brownies and Broomsticks: A Magical Bakery Mystery

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👟 Something to Wear/Use

Chunky Waffle Knit Oversized Cardigan

There’s something about wrapping up in a chunky cardigan that just feels like instant fall magic — and this one hits all the right notes. It’s long, slouchy, and soft (like a wearable blanket, but cute enough to wear outside the house). The waffle knit gives it that cozy, textured feel, and the black version just gives off witchy main character energy in the best way.

I chose this one because it’s one of those sweaters you can throw over leggings for a movie night or pair with jeans and boots and still look like you had your life together. Basically: if fall had a uniform, this would be it.

Long Cardigan Sweater Fall 2025 Trendy Chunky Waffle Knit Oversized

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🎉 Something for Fun

Spooky Cutie Coloring Book for Adults

Okay, I’m obsessed with this one. It’s weird and cozy in the best possible way — full of adorable, slightly spooky creatures living their best comfy lives. Think witchy cats, pumpkins, and magical little worlds that somehow feel like fall wrapped up in a doodle.

I picked this because it’s such an easy, low-pressure way to unwind. You don’t need to be “artsy” to enjoy it — just grab your markers, light a candle, and color while your brownies bake. It’s surprisingly relaxing, and there’s something satisfying about doing something creative that doesn’t come with a to-do list.

Spooky Cutie: Coloring Book for Adults

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🍫 Something to Treat Yourself With

Black Cocoa Brownies

Every October deserves a batch of something rich and chocolatey, and these Black Cocoa Brownies from Barley & Sage are pure witchy indulgence. They’re deep, dark, and decadent — with that slightly mysterious flavor that makes you think of Oreo cookies in brownie form.

I picked this recipe because it’s simple, but feels extra. You can mix it up in one bowl, and it bakes into the fudgiest, darkest brownies you’ve ever seen — perfect for pairing with your cozy mystery and a cup of coffee.

✨ Tip: If you want to lean into the spooky season, sprinkle a little flaky salt on top or swirl in some peanut butter before baking.

Get the Recipe Here

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💬 Something to Remember

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💛 A Little Sunday Reminder

Above all else, take the time to take care of yourself. Life moves fast — especially this time of year — but even a few slow, cozy moments can make all the difference. Whether it’s reading a few pages of your book, baking something sweet, or just coloring for fun, give yourself permission to rest.

You deserve a little bit of magic, too.