Anticipation

As September approaches and the heat and humidity of summer wanes, I find my thoughts turning to Autumn - my absolute, hands down, favorite time of the year. I know, I know - we still have weeks to go, and I'm probably faking myself out thinking the cooler evenings we've been enjoying will continue. Late August and early September can turn into a 24 hour a day sauna here in southeastern Pennsylvania.

But there are subtle signs; the tips of a few trees turning a beautiful amber color, the flowering crabapple tree in the backyard dropping it's fruit to the ground, some of the herbs in the garden going to seed, local shops bursting with fall decor, advertisements for upcoming fairs and festivals....I can't help it - I'm giddy with anticipation!

Some of my favorite things about autumn:

The crunch of leaves underfoot walking down a wooded path.

The scent of woodsmoke as we drive past Amish farms.

Apple picking and cider drinking at a local orchard; coming home to make and freeze homemade applesauce and pies.

Buying and burning fall scented candles.

Big, bulky sweaters and jeans, worn with Timberland boots.

Fairs, shows and festivals (in particular, the Ghoultide Gathering!)

Road trips - to Michigan, and later in the month south to Asheville, N.C....It just doesn't get any better or more beautiful than driving the Blue Ridge parkway in October.

PUMPKINS! Pumpkin pie, pumpkin muffins ("puffins"), pumpkin soup, pumpkin bread, pumpkin lattes - my absolute favorite flavor (Okay, maybe next to chocolate, lol)

Wearing scarves, shawls and hats I've knitted myself. Comfy-cozy.

Halloween (and buying just a tad more candy than we actually need, teehee!)

Homemade soups; minestrone, tomato bisque, french onion, vegetarian chili with homemade cornbread, cider-baked butternut squash soup....yummmmmmm.

Flannel sheets and knitted afghans on the bed. Cats and Aussie dogs as footwarmers. :)


How about you? What are your favorite things about autumn?