I have felt the first chill go through my bones, so therefore it's officially fall.
Yes, I am one of those pumpkin spice-loving, festive sweater-wearing, house-decorating types and proud of it.
Since the end of September, my house has looked a little like autumn threw up inside.
There is nary a space left for another faux gourd, leafy garland or light up picture.
This is my season, and I know I’m not alone.
It’s the whole season I like. The colours, outside and inside, are the most vibrant with the golds, oranges and browns. It's maybe not quite as bright as some years, but it is still so pretty. Even dead branches have a certain charm.
As a proponent of “more is best,” you can never overdo fall décor.
It's the easiest occasion to decorate for, because you can cram a bunch of stuff onto a mantel or table and it just looks like you’ve created a cozy vignette.
Here’s some easy tricks that always work for October:
- Dust is an accessory and added bonus. It is not only protective for your furniture, but it also adds a layer of spooky leading into Halloween. Practise saying with a straight face: “Yes, I wanted it extra dusty for effect.”
- Cobwebs? Do not sweep them away. No, no, no. These are meant to be seen and appreciated in this creepy season. (Minus the spiders, of course.)
- Don't rake your leaves. They add natural beauty to one’s lawn or deck. The sound of them crunching under your feet is like its own music. If you have to rake, do not forget to make giant piles for your kids, dogs and adult friends to leap into. Leaves are a natural fertilizer. If you are allowed to burn leaves on your property, that is the best-smelling fire ever.
- Meals are easier. Just throw a bunch of root vegetables in some Corningware and call it a casserole. Everyone will love it. Fall gives me an excuse to throw in spices I normally don’t usually know what to do with, be it nutmeg, cloves and peppercorns.
- Soup — easiest meal ever and brings back the best childhood memories. If you are super fancy and can afford it, add a grilled cheese sandwich cut in a triangle. Just makes you happy! Pair it with a crunchy red apple. Is there anything better?
- Save on hydro. Get some of those battery-operated candles and enjoy the ambience, day or night. I don’t think I’ve had overhead lights on at night for a month.
- Candy is perfectly acceptable for every meal. Is there anything better than snack-sized chocolate bars? If you can find those Reese’s chocolate-covered pumpkin bars, trust me when I say they are the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter.
- Most biting, stinging, ugly bugs have returned to hell where they belong.
- If you’re a little pale, no worries. You can say you are portraying a vampire. If your eyeliner runs, pretend to be a ghoul. It all works in October.
- Recreation in the fall is so easy. A walk, a bike ride, a book, a nap and a warm beverage in a favourite cup.
Favourite television shows finally return, too. Some new ones start airing and it won’t be long now before holiday movies start to appear.
Sports fans will be all pumped up.
It's sweater weather. What's not to love?
While I know some people still feel sad about the passing of summer, I challenge you to embrace all this frosty colourful season has to offer.
F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, "Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall."
