I can’t wait for autumn. It’s my favorite time of the year. Spring is nice, but I’ve always preferred fall. Seeing the leaves change color and the weather getting cooler—that’s what I’m talkin’ about. When September rolls around, it triggers so many warm feelings in my heart.
After such a long hot summer, I can’t wait to decorate my home with scented candles, fall wreaths, gourds, pumpkins and fresh mums. I’ve accumulated many lovely decorations over the years and I switch them out each season. North Georgia mountain festivals are a great place to find some unique decor.
Another thing I look forward to in autumn is a change in cooking. All summer we grill outside, keeping the menu simple. Salads are a staple. But, in the fall it’s time for homemade soups and stews. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a pot of chili, simmering on the stove, and jalapeno cornbread in the oven–unless it’s a hot fresh apple pie!
Fall heralds the start of my favorite sports. I’m a HUGE fan of the Georgia Dawgs, the Florida State Seminoles and the Atlanta Falcons. Two of my grandkids will be playing soccer and I love to go to their games, cheering them on. Mostly, however, I’m looking forward to my Atlanta Braves making it to the playoffs in October.
We’re planning one more trip to the North Georgia Mountains this summer. We’ll be staying for a week, right on Fightingtown Creek which is very kid-friendly. The whole family is going and we’re all looking forward to doing our own thing. The grandkids love splashing, floating and fishing in the water. My daughters and I love to play Scrabble when we’re away. My sons-in-law, no doubt, will be watching football or enjoying the gameroom. John and I will try out the kayaks and go on another wild adventure. There’s plenty of room for everybody and we enjoy eating our meals outside at the picnic table on the large shady deck. So, I’m willing to suffer through a little more summer heat until after our vacation. But then, I’ll be expecting some cooler weather.