Fall how I have missed you...

I love all seasons of the year and I am so happy that Fall is here and upon us now. I uses to have a favorite season (summer because of my bday) but now I have realized that I just love them all but for different reasons. Although this last week has had record temperature in the 90's you would not think that Fall is here. But it is and has been for a few weeks according to the calendar. I have enjoyed this Indian summer but its time for the real Fall to begin. What I mean by 'real' is the feeling of the Fall season and all the treat that it offers. October is already half way through Halloween is just around the corner and Thanksgiving is on its way. This time of year is very special to me and I wanted to take some time today to reflect on what I love about this time of year. 

Family & Friends - spending time with family and friends is really important to me. This season gives you a little of both within two months. Halloween is always fun time to get together with friends and have a party as well as seeing the adorable little ones in their costumes. I have never been a fan of what Halloween actually is about but the fall festivities/festivals and costume parties are a blast. Then comes Thanksgiving! Not only is there excellent food, but it is a time to spend with family and reflect and give thanks for all of the blessing that you have. I think that you should give thanks on a daily basis; however this is a wonderful time to fellowship in the company of family and friends relax, watch the parade, or some football. 

Atmosphere - The smell of rain is something that always refreshes me. I was not a fan of El Nino when it rained every day and night but I do enjoy the rain. It also a great time to bust out the warm blankets and cuddle which is another one of my fav things to do. As well as the beginning of candle time! Of course you can light candles year round but I love the smell of the fall spices and jack-o-lantern on the porch just makes me smile. 

Lattes - I love my pumpkin spice lattes!! and they are only around this time of year. This mornings latte is really what inspired me to write this blog. All lattes in my opinion are delish! But, the pumpkin spice has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of eating pumpkin pie with my Dad. We both love pumpkin pie and every fall we don't just save it for Thanksgiving (LOL). And this year now that I've started baking pies from scratch I am going make my first homemade pumpkin pie for him! 

Leaves - The colors that the leaves turn during fall is truly an amazing sight. The bright orange, yellow, and red is a sight that I love to see. Nature has always been a love of mine, and the transition that trees undergo during fall is something of gorgeous proportions. When I was little my mom use to let me collect the leaves and then press them in between book to preserve them. One year I tried to scotch tape the leave instead of laminating...let's just say to my utter disappointment my collection was ruined. Now, I am not a fan over raking the leaves but I do like to make a big mess and run through the piles and roll in them. It sound childish and it is...Its something that can let the little kid inside of you out again.