Autumn Joys

1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch

When I was a little girl, I remember visiting a pumpkin patch with my sister, Jenn. My uncle Hal and his girlfriend and her daughter picked us up and took us to spend a fun day at the pumpkin farm. I remember it was the first time I ate Good-n-Plenty candies and it was that day that I learned I hated those little pill like things. The pumpkin patch is a wonderful place to get the best pumpkins, to support your local economy and farmers, sample some yummy goods (many often sell baked goods and jams), to take amazing pictures, to enjoy the wonderful Autumn air, and spend an awesome time with your family.

Don't have kiddos? Borrow one! A neighbor kid, a niece or nephew, grandchild, someone from church. Still no kiddos in your life? Grab your hunny and take him. You'll have a great time. Promise!




2. Celebrate Fall

Every year, since we started dating, Shane and I have celebrated Fall. It's our little way of welcoming the season in. For us, that means grabbing a hot apple cider from our local coffee shop and driving around to look at the leaves and pretty decorations that people have in their yards. Perfect excuse to take a great walk - in a new neighborhood too. So, throw on a cozy sweater, a scarf and get yourself a pumpkin spice latte or hot apple cider and go celebrate Fall.

3. Go On a Hayride

Have you done this before? If not, it's a must. Sitting on hay bales while riding around whether being pulled by a tractor, a truck or horses is such a fun fall thing to do. It's there that I discovered I had allergies to hay. But still, a fun time. Hot chocolate is required. So if you are at a place where they offer hay rides, don't sit back. Join in the fun!

4. Have a Bonfire

Here is another thing that Shane and I are planning on doing really soon. Perhaps as early as tonight! It's the perfect time to throw some wood on the fire, toast marshmallows, drink some hot drinks (what is it about this season that requires hot drinks? I don't know but I love it!) Provide your guests with extra mitts and scarves. Maybe have a basket or two set aside for them in case they get chilly. Also have some throw blankets set aside too. This is the perfect way to say goodbye to summer. I can't wait to have our bonfire!

5. Host a Pumpkin Carving Party

Pumpkins? Check. What is Autumn without pumpkins? Carving pumpkins is essential. Bring your friends together and see who can carve the best pumpkin. Have prizes for the most creative, the most intricate, the scariest. Lots of little kiddos in your life? Offer paints and glitters so they can decorate their pumpkins. Maybe use little pie pumpkins for them. Pint sized pumpkins for pint sized people!




6. Enjoy Some Candy

Throw off the guilt and indulge in a bit of a sugar rush. You know you can't resist candy corn, little candy pumpkins, the fall colored M&M's. Candy is way on sale right now. Have a little.

Here is a recipe for one of my families favorite Autumn treats:

Mix equal parts salty peanuts with candy corn. Toss together. Enjoy! It's the perfect combination of salty and sweet.




7. Buy a New Sweater

This is sweater weather isn't it? Maybe find a lovely sweater in a pretty jewel tone, a spicy pumpkin, or a deep red. How about argyle? That's what I'm looking for this season. Just make sure that you feel good in the sweater and it feels good on you.

8. Host a Potluck

What a simple way to get together with friends! It's easy to get together when everyone brings a dish. You provide the main course - maybe a hearty soup or sloppy joes. Something that can simmer in the crock pot all day. Your house will smell delicious! Maybe you can have a potluck party and pumpkin carving party in one!




9. Roast Pumpkin Seeds

Mmmmm. Yum-o! That's just about all that I can say. Here are a few recipes to get you started.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Sugar and Spice Pumpkin Seeds
Maryland Pumpkin Seeds

10. Cozy Up

Light some candles, turn down the lights, turn up the music and cuddle under a warm blanket with your sweetie. Or skip the music and put on "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" movie. Cute as can be!


So there are some ways to make the most out of this season. How do you celebrate Autumn? I'd love to hear! I'm always looking for new ways to enjoy my favorite time of the year.