Looking Forward to Autumn

Every year, the beginning of school makes me think of the fun activities that await me over the next few months. From school football games, to gatherings, to festivals, the fall season is filled with anticipation. From October through December, I'm anxious to be out and about. The cooler weather that fall brings is largely to blame. While others are lured outside by a warm sun, overcast skies and chilly temperatures beckon me from indoors. I've always been a cold-weather person; I prefer to bundle up from the cold than to roast from the heat. However, my physical comfort is only part of my love for this season. This season pleasantly assaults my senses and never fails to bring a smile to my face.

There are so many aspects about this time of the year that I love: The days become cooler, the leaves begin to change from green to the vivid hues of red, yellow, and orange, and aromas of pumpkin pie, spices, homemade apple butter, and hot cider begin to fill the air. I love to walk through thick layers of fallen leaves and hear them rustle under my feet as I make them fly in every direction. I also love those chilly, windy days that make hot mugs of cider and chocolate a special treat. I love to wake up in the morning to see frost cover everything outside. The grass glistens, all is quiet, and everything is right with the world. As the cold air seeps into the house, I can begin to snuggle under those thick comforters that invite sleep to come more easily, while the glow from candles makes the house feel cozy.

In Ohio, one of the biggest events I looked forward to was the Circleville Pumpkin Show, held in Circleville, Ohio. After eating my fill of foods made with pumpkin and browsing the many craft tents, I would return home late at night happy and ready for bed (By the way, pumpkin pizza is really good, it's worth a taste!). Last year, my family moved before I could attend the show and I truly missed this annual treat. While Texas also has a lot going on, I was too busy trying to get us settled into our new home to enjoy the season. This year, now that we're settled, I plan to take a closer look at what my new home state has to offer.