Autumn Ramblings

With the exception of some very strong winds, today is the perfect fall day. The sky is blue and perfectly accented with puffy, white clouds, and the temperature is cool, but not cold. I'm sitting on my back deck, for maybe the last time this year, just contemplating the wonder of God's creation.

I've spent the last few weeks doing the fall gardening--tearing out the annuals (which literally broke my heart because they were still blooming, but I had to do it when I actually had the time and energy to do it), transplanting hostas and daylillies, and planting bulbs--tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and scillas. Even though it is hard to let go of my gorgeous annuals, I do love tearing them out because I really do love working in the dirt. There is nothing more energizing for me than working in my garden, regardless of the task at hand.

I've also been working on organizing the garage--put up new shelves and a cabinet, and I am soooo thankful for the extra storage space. I finally feel like I can put everything away AND find it when I need it.

This past weekend, Tim and I did our annual pumpkin shopping. The pumpkin crop wasn't very good this year because of the drought, and because we waited so long to actually go buy any pumpkins, the selection was pretty sparce. But, we managed to find two that we could agree on and also got some hay, gourds, and a scarecrow to complete our outdoor fall decorating. We've also been enjoying some apple cider, and I'm looking forward to making a pumpkin bundt cake in the next few days/weeks.

The other fall activity that we plan to do every year, but never quite get to do is to go to an IU football game. There is nothing more gorgeous than Monroe County (Bloomigton, IN) in the fall, and the atmosphere at a college football game is always exciting--even at IU. But, we both got sick the week we planned to go (which seems to happen every year), so we'll try again next year.

All in all, I do think Autumn is my favorite season--the smells, tastes, and colors of fall are comforting and warm, and I'm thankful for their comfort as we head into winter (admittedly, my LEAST favorite season).