Bringing something akin to a second spring, leaves turning into the colors of flowers, fall is in the air. Our bright blue skies provide a vivid backdrop to the reds, yellows and oranges that splash across the mountains and prairies. It may sound silly but the colors of this time of year make me smile.
Fall colors are naturally on the warm color spectrum. These colors are very appealing because they remind me of the earth, something I’m drawn to–nature. The leaves, warmed by the sun, have an aroma that sets it apart from other seasons. The scent of fall can be magical, though it means winter is just around the corner, enjoy it. Jumping into a pile of leaves is still a joy to me, although it aggravates my son.
For those of us that live at the higher elevations, there is an anticipation when the air turns chilly. Woodsheds, snow shovels and winter tires become a priority when the possibility of snow plays in our heads. Personally, I enjoy the slower pace of winter, but I miss the ability to hop in the car and take a ride to Laramie to play with the grandkids or have a bite to eat.
I love sitting on the couch with a fire burning in the stove and a cup of English Breakfast tea watching a movie or reading a book and petting the dog.
Sweaters and blankets are much more convenient than peeling off clothes until you get arrested because it’s so darn hot.
Autumn also brings the seasonal food rush; apples, pumpkins, corn, cranberries, sweet potatoes, berries, mushrooms, beets, garlic, ginger, squash and so much more. Enjoying homemade stew with fresh little potatoes and carrots or corn on the cob straight off the grill, is so satisfying.
Hot cocoa, a mug of hot cider or coffee with a dollop of Irish cream warm you to your toes–a mug of something warm is just the excuse to take a minute to relax, take a breath and appreciate the changing leaves and the crispness of the air.
Halloween brings out the creativity in most and of course there’s Oktoberfest. In the Upper North Platte Valley, Autumn means the Hay Bale competition, Halloween Walk, and Holiday bazaars.
Around the corner from the jack-o-lanterns is Thanksgiving. Visiting family, cooking and baking traditional morsels and trying a few new ones can make this a special time, reminding us of our blessings.
Winter is right on the heels of Autumn here in the Rocky Mountains. Bringing with it bonfires, parties, sledding and snowmen.
All of the above bring memories of going back to school, family traditions, fun holidays and a reminder that time continues to march on and seasons change. It’s a time of rest and respite. Fall is a transitional period and the start of something new.
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