In the Thick of It: October in the Studio
October is when fall truly settles in — not just in the weather, but in the rhythm of the studio. It’s the month where everything feels full: the worktables, the calendar, and the mental load that comes with wrapping up one season while preparing for the next.
Early October marked the end of outdoor market season for me. My last Moses Lake Farmers Market of the year was on October 4th — a familiar milestone that always feels a little bittersweet. I took the photo above as a way to sort of mark the occasion. Outdoor markets bring a certain energy, but they also require a lot physically, and knowing when it’s time to step back is part of running a sustainable business. Honestly, I just can't deal with the cold mornings.
Just a week later, I participated in Harvest in Bloom on October 11th — an outdoor market as well, and one that came with its own challenges. It turned out to be a very cold, windy day, and while I originally was suppose to be set up outside, I ended up getting lucky. A last-minute cancellation opened up a spot inside the barn, and I jumped at the chance. That small shift made a big difference and served as a reminder that flexibility is often just as important as preparation.
October in the studio wasn’t just about making products; it was about making decisions. Knowing when to wrap up outdoor markets, how to adapt on event days, and what to carry forward into the colder months all require thoughtful choices. These behind-the-scenes decisions don’t always show up in photos or listings, but they shape the direction of the business in meaningful ways.
This month also reinforced how closely seasonality and energy are connected. Stepping away from outdoor markets didn’t mean slowing down — it meant shifting focus. October became a turning point, creating space to prepare for what the rest of the year would hold while still being fully present in the work.
Being “in the thick of it” doesn’t always mean pushing harder. Sometimes it means knowing when to pivot, when to say yes to unexpected opportunities, and when to adjust your plans so the work remains sustainable. October held all of that — busy, challenging, and ultimately grounding.