Fancies of Fall

Autumn is in full swing at the Rhoades household. Oh, how we love this time of year! The crispness of the air, the changing colors of the foliage, the migrating geese, the scent of burning leaves, and the harvesting of the crops provides us the awe-inspiring opportunity to celebrate the blessings of the past while preparing us to find relentless courage for the cold, icy season to come.

So, how do we celebrate this season of change? Here are some creative ideas we’d like to share with you:

1. Home Decorations

Karen and I love the warm and cozy atmosphere fall decorations bring to our home, and while purchasing commercial, retail products is an option, the prices can quickly add up. Some inexpensive decorating ideas we have used in and around our home include pumpkins, gourds, hay/straw bales (outside), apples, ornamental flint or Indian corn, colored leaves, wheat, and grapevines to form decorative wreaths.

2. Autumn Scents

Don’t you enjoy the phenomenal odors we associate with this special time of year? We certainly do and candles, oils, plug-in aroma dispensers, and natural baking odors are a great way to immerse yourself into the spirit of the season. Scientists have proven the powerful effect odors have on our psychological, emotional, spiritual, and physiological well-being and they also serve to evoke those precious and endearing memories associated with celebrations of the past. The smell of fresh pumpkin, spices, burning wood, bread, and baked goods can bring a sense of relaxation, decreased anxiety, and recapture moments in grandma’s kitchen or beside the glowing fireplace.

3. Seasonal Foods

As the temperature drops and the nights grow longer, it’s natural to seek those warm and appetizing comfort foods. Who doesn’t want a nice big slice of pumpkin pie or cranberry bread with a big mug of warm apple cider or hot chocolate or a big bowl of butternut squash soup? The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice your health in the process. Recipes are available to provide you the same great tasting cuisine while keeping your body in check. A simple internet search or a stroll through the cookbook section of your local bookstore can provide you with a variety of resources where you can locate delicious, low-calorie, seasonal delights. Always remember, moderation in everything.

4. Seasonal Traditions

There are a variety of ways you can celebrate the autumn season with your friends and family! Don’t forget to visit that corn maze and/or local pumpkin patch, fall festival, haunted house, or find a local farm for a good old fashioned hay ride. Most importantly, make it your tradition and create a memory to last a lifetime!

We trust you are enjoying this autumn season and hope these ideas will help you create a warm and welcoming home and seasonal experience for you and your family and friends.

Happy Autumn!