In case I didn’t make it clear in my previous two posts, I LOVE AUTUMN! The crunchy leaves, the beautiful colors, the crisp air, and the tasty apples! If had to pick one season to live in perpetually, it would be Autumn (with maybe an occasional Spring day thrown in here and there).
Autumn, or the “almost to Christmas, but not quite” season is full of activity and excitement. Kids don jackets and play outside until dinner without complaining about the heat. Kids dress up in cute costumes and beg for candy (Halloween’s not my thing, but I do love seeing kids in their costumes). Pictures of little ones at pumpkin festivals cover Facebook, young lovers take evening walks, and seasonal decorations pop up all over town.
Since autumn is sandwiched in between hot summer and cold winter, I believe in making as many autumn memories as possible while you have the chance; so, below are seven ways you and your sweetie can revel in the autumn air!
- Rake up piles of leaves and then jump in them! This activity is not only for kids. Dogs and adults can enjoy it too. Now, if you live out in the woods, you may want to make sure your leaf piles are not home to certain insect critters; but otherwise, let your leaves get nice and crunchy, rake them in a pile, and then jump in! Let your dog in on the fun, as well. Ramsey is never happier than when she’s running through a thick pile of leaves. Just be sure to check them, and yourselves, thoroughly for ticks. They are a not-so-fun autumn guest.
- Pick out a round, sturdy pumpkin, and have a pumpkin carving party! Last year, I waited too late and we had to settle for some less-than-ideal pumpkins. Still, I was quite proud of my Barney Fife pumpkin. You can go online and find several patterns, and take it from me – get a sturdy scooper and adult quality carving utensils. The child-kits are cute, but sometimes they don’t cut the mustard (or the pumpkin). ~smile~
- Go to local apple orchards and pumpkin festivals. Not only are there fresh fruit at these festivals, but there are often attractions for the kids, hay rides, and vendors! You can find some of the best unique gifts at these events! Leave with some fresh apples, apple butter, apple pie, and apple jewelry. ~smile~
- Take some colorful pictures. Autumn is perhaps the most photogenic season, though some would argue that Spring is best. The changing leaves, the sunsets, the happy activity everywhere – it is all worth documenting! When Eric was preparing the slideshow for our wedding, his dad took some great pictures of us playing in leaves. While you are enjoying your fall festivities, take your camera along for the ride and capture some beautiful memories.
- Have a cookout! But it’s too cold! Perish the thought! November may be too late for a cookout, but September isn’t! There is still time to enjoy one or two more outdoor barbecues before Jack Frost starts nipping! Toss some burgers and hotdogs on the grill, pull out some lawn games, and throw a “Welcome Autumn!” bash! Laugh and play until the sun goes down!
- Hike, walk, jog, and bike while it’s cool out! Get in shape before winter arrives. If you are not in the habit of exercising before winter comes, you are not likely to get motivated once it’s cold and dreary. You may be the exception, but most people feel more energized when it’s not too hot and not too cold. Eric’s not a jogger anymore, but he recalls enjoying a few good jogs in California when there was a cool mist outside. While you have a natural air conditioner, go outside and whip yourselves into shape (yes, I’m definitely preaching to myself too)!
- Enjoy seasonal foods and learn some great fall recipes. You may even want to can some apples or make apple butter. Heavy soups and apple crisps are autumn nectar! Look up some new fall recipes, and learn to make some amazing comfort food dishes. Once you find your perfect fall meal, have some friends over for a tasting!
How do you like to drink in the autumn season? Sit down with your sweetie over a pumpkin spice latte and think of five to ten fall activities you want to enjoy this season! Live it up!
How will you make the most of your autumn experience?