Rustling of leaves

I can’t imagine living in a part of the country that doesn’t have four seasons. I love the greenery and freshness of spring flowers and budding trees. Although I’m in the minority, I enjoy the snowy wonderland of winter with its stillness and beauty. I like the sunny, longer days of summer where I have energy long into the evening. I admit, however, that the autumn season and all that it entails, is my favorite time of year. There is something for all five senses.

Sight – The beautiful fall colored leaves, in a variety of sizes and shapes, that dance across the road, get caught under my windshield wipers and swirl around my feet. The darker colors of clothes – wine, navy, brown and gold. Different shaped pumpkins, gourds and freshly baled hay. Acorns and walnuts dropping from trees and crunching beneath your feet.

Sound – The winding down of the bird songs and the ramping up of the crickets. Festive groups gathering at festivals, trick-or-treating or cookouts by a crackling campfire. Leaf mulching while, overhead, migrating geese honk.

Touch – Dressing in layers of clothing – soft warm sweaters, thick socks and boots, long underwear. Our dog, Hershey’s, thick undercoat that deserves a good scratching. Jumping into piles of soft, crunchy leaves.

Taste – Apple cider, sauce and pie; cranberry, mulled wine, hot chocolate, pumpkin and pecan pie.

Smell – Cool, crisp air; wood burning fireplaces, an earthy wind; pickling spices and cinnamon from the kitchen.

What are your favorite sights, sounds, tastes, smells and textures of autumn?