Want to fall in love with fall?

Maple tree in Pearrygin Lake campground, located near winthrop washington. The campground is filled with beautiful hardwoods such as this Maple. We camped here earlier this month. © given photography 2021

Here’s your to-do list!

Without a doubt fall is an incredible season of bounty and letting go. Crops are gathered and leaves are falling. Time feels more spacious. Shorter days might get you early to bed or cozy on the couch. It’s a season to be savored as mother nature takes a deep breath and releases summer’s high energy with a long slow sigh. And as the season moves into Thanksgiving, it turns into a celebratory and grateful time. What’s not to love about fall?

So take a moment to scan the short list I’ve put together and choose a few activities that resonate with you. Soon, you’ll be swooning before you know it.

Sip a warm beverage outside. I love to do this with a golden latte. It’s an immune boosting indulgence that will keep you sipping with all of its warming spices. Perfect for cool weather. Here is one version of the recipe I like…
Pour 1 cup of coconut, cashew, or almond milk into a small saucepan. Mix in 1/2 t. turmeric, 1/2 t. vanilla extract (optional), 1/2 t. cinnamon, 1/2 t. ginger, and pinch of pepper. Heat all ingredients just below the boiling point. Then add honey, agave, or stevia to taste.
Relish the golden hour. As the sun dips low in the sky, the mellow light illuminates subjects for stunning photographs—thus called the golden hour by pro photographers. I happen to live with one who lives for this light. So about an hour before sunset settle outside. Let go of any stress and feel yourself soften into the bewitching light.
Embrace the season’s transitional beauty. Follow mother nature’s cue and use its natural cleansing energy to let go, clear out, drop whatever is not working in your life, and begin to turn inward to create new beginnings. Journaling is a wonderful method to help you do this kind of inner work.
Go camping. Crisp air, colorful leaves, and invigorating morning walks are the best. You’re surrounded by giant trees and the smell of fresh pine. Meals are simple with delicious bowls of fresh veggies, herbs, grains, and protein. The city becomes a distant memory as you say hello to nature.
Place a chair outside in a sheltered area. Pile with pillows and a cozy blanket. Read, journal, or meditate here. This is your new go-to place for solitude and peace as the days get cooler.
Take a walk or hike like no other. It’s one of the most sensuous activities you can do this time of year. A couple of weeks ago, I took a hike in the Cascade mountains. Every turn brought new breath-taking beauty. The trees were draped with moss and drenched with color. The trail followed a rushing river that energized my every step. Leaves glowed and ferns sparkled from the morning dew. I couldn’t get enough. Look for a nearby scenic byway with access to lowland or easy trails. Or, you can find beautiful fall walks in urban arboretums.
Cook up a pot of scratch soup. Make this more than just an hour in your kitchen. Get your ingredients from a local farmer’s market. Colorful stalls are loaded with root veggies—basic ingredients to any big pot of hearty soup. Just plan to browse the stalls, and soak up all the smells and colors. Speaking of soaking up, don’t forget to grab a loaf of good crusty bread for dipping. This is a fun, creative way to up your game in the kitchen. You will feel so nourished and your family will love every bite.
Give yourself a two-day getaway. It seems we are back to busy schedules and hectic days, so a getaway this time of year is the perfect antidote. Research a bit to find a town that celebrates autumn. Festivals, beer gardens, art displays, wine or cider tasting and scenic drives are all part of the adventure. Or, go for a little serenity with a nice cabin in the woods surrounded by fall beauty.