The title of this article could have just as easily been written, “AUTUMN in Love” or “HARVEST in Love” either one define the season that transitions between Summer and Winter. The Fall Equinox phrasing is my personal favorite, as I immediately associate my thoughts to leaves that change color and fall to the ground. Here in North America the season officially begins toward the end of September and falls away to the Solstice on or around December 21st, giving us three glorious months to take in all of the sights, sounds, smells and memories that come along with it. It is a time for cooler temperatures, spectacular colors, food, family, friends, sweaters and pumpkins, but most of all it is a time to fall in love with Fall.
FALL DREAMS IN COLOR
Is it not obvious from the myriad of colors this season will produce? Reds, Oranges, Yellows, Browns, Purples, Blacks and Blues in every hue imaginable. Everything from the leaves on the trees to the fruit and vegetables in our gardens, it truly is an amazing time to see in color.
Speaking of leaves. The phenomenon of autumn leaf color begins with Fall temperatures that begin to cool, causing green deciduous trees to change into autumn foliage. The decrease in chlorophyll begins to show off all of the color that was hidden all along from the human eye. These leaves are the true stars of the tree world, wether they hang from an outward branch or even as they begin to carpet the ground beneath our feet.
Speaking of food, the wondrous glorious food. The harvest of this time is an amazing reminder of why we give “Thanks” at this time of the year. Of course we should be giving thanks at all times of the year but it becomes even more apparent during this season. The gathering of ripe crops from the fields, gardens, and even the supermarket fill our kitchens with wonderful smells, smiles, family and friends. The array of color from the food is just as colorful as the leaves that occupy the trees, except better to eat.
A FALL WALK
What a wonderful time to get outdoors and take a walk down your neighborhood sidewalk or for the more adventures, a hike through the woods. Put on your favorite sweater and head outdoors to see the show. The air feels clean and crisp and the colors are sure not to disappoint, not to mention this is a great excuse for some outdoor exercise.
FAMILY TIME
Sometimes we need another excuse to see more family and friends. This season gives us one of the biggest excuses we could have… Thanksgiving. A time to share, laugh and love. Did I mention the food???
A TIME FOR REFLECTION
The weather, trees and food are not the only things going through a change at this time of the year… people are also changing, you and me. It is a great time to reflect on the past year to see how far we have come and where we are going. Like the leaves on a tree, we are growing, changing and shedding, to become the best versions of ourselves as we prepare for the next year and years to come.
FALL IN THE MOMENT
Winter is just around the bend so it is important not to let this season pass you by without you making the best of it. Don’t forget to live in the moment, count the leaves, share the food, enjoy the company, and Fall in Love.