On this last morning of summer I was gently woken up by the sweet sound of heavy raindrops falling from our canopy onto the deck. I turned off my alarm so it wouldn’t disrupt this lovely moment and laid there — apparently for too long as I ended up rushing around — and simply savored the special memories we made this summer.
For me, this is the hardest summer to say goodbye to because it’s truly been an amazing few months while the kids were out of school. We traveled together, made new friends and enjoyed special times with family friends that have brought us so much closer. Will fall bring these special moments?
In trying my best to embrace the reality that summer is over and it’s time to greet fall, I turned my attention to all that I love about fall.
Like…
Fall colors all around us
Walking through crunchy fallen leaves and kicking them up into the air might just top my list. Growing up in southern California, I didn’t have this pleasure until we moved to the northwest. I’m not sure if my kids enjoy this as much as I do, but they tell me that jumping in puddles is just as fun.
Fall baking, cinnamon and squash
We don’t turn our oven on much during warm summer months so fall means roasting, baking, soups and stews filling our home with the smell of autumn, and our bellies with comfort food. The kids love spending time in the kitchen when the weather turns cooler, almost as much as I do.
Fall corn maze fun
We have the most incredible pumpkin patches and u-pick farms in Oregon. My kids are truly spoiled. From giant corn mazes to hay rides and giant gunny sack slides, we visit a lot of farms this time of year to take advantage of the fall harvest.
Fall reflection and appreciation
While we give thanks daily and recognize what we are grateful for, November brings a big focus in our home on all the tiny little things we appreciate that sometimes go forgotten.
Cozy fall sweaters
Of course, fall is also my very favorite season for clothes. I love wearing warm colors like orange and chocolate brown. Layered all together. With corduroy. And boots. And cute hats and scarves.
Am I ready to embrace this chill in the air and greet autumn with wide open arms? Yes, today I am ready. And between my mud run and kid’s soccer games this weekend you’ll find me baking pumpkin muffins and pulling out my fall clothes. And hopefully the u-pick apple farm.
How are you welcoming in fall this weekend?
