autumn is quickly approaching

Each season brings with it some change, some growth…..growth within ourselves (hopefully) and growth in a physical world. The weather changes, number of daylight hours changes (in most areas). Our daily routines may change and our sleeping patterns may change as well. Each new season has its’ benefits and pitfalls. I enjoy each one in its’ own right.

But my favorite – at this time – is autumn. Winter is my very most least favorite season!

Cool air.

Crisp mornings.

Change of colors around me. Greens to golds and oranges and yellows and reds.

Leaves fluttering about in slight breeze and crackling beneath my feet.

the smells of apple and cinnamon and pumpkin spices.

I can see (and smell) it now!

Here are a few of my favorites fall/autumn delights:

• fall (outdoor) family photos! summer photos are nice and can be quite colorful, but the autumn is beautiful. Yellows, reds, oranges, and golds as far as the eye can see
• hot apple cider on crisp mornings just to jumpstart the day
• the smells of hay (although, this season drives my husband and son’s allergies CrAzY!)
• annual raking of the leaves and watching my kiddos jump into and rustle around in the pile only to be raked again. This year, i’m sure that delight will grow when the goats are playing in the leaves as well!
• Borscht soup, cabbage beef soup, vegetable soup, potato soup, chicken and wild rice soup…..okay, just about soup you can imagine!
• when i had football players in school, in the stands all snuggled into a blanket as I cheered wildly for my boys!
• the golden-auburn hues in the early morning and evening sky – and this year, I have a beautiful view!
• smell of campfires and roasting marshmallows. yes, a summer thing, but its’ a great time in the fall as well
• warm glow of candles in carved pumpkins
• coziness of glowing candles (battery-operated just to be safe) set amongst fall decor
• and let’s not forget the holidays….Halloween and Thankgiving!

Truth is – I can find something magical in every season! Each one brings some measure of joy and laughter….even the dreaded winter! Winter is NOT my friend!

Find your reason to smile & keep smiling
~ Shannon ~