It’s never too early to enjoy the crisp freshness of fall. And with it comes those particular feelings that fall brings and a reminder of the snow and colder weather to follow. Just what are these “fall feelings?” They can be whatever you want for yourself but I want to share a few of the many “feelings” that fill my heart and memory banks during this season. 

The bright beauty of changing leaves. Bright flashes of red and yellow herald the season. The first hint of fall’s arrival makes my heart sing -- the bright red color of the trees lining White Mountain Road. This festive color begins to show at the very tops of the trees then, like slowly dripping paint, starts to drop through the rest of the branches. As the days grow longer, the leaves seem to change more and more quickly until they are completely scarlet. The willowy aspens, with their lovely apparel of yellows and golds, bring a dancing movement to the scene as the wind ripples through the groves on the mountains. When I was younger, school had begun and I met up with old friends. The doors to learning were open again.

The soft fall of pine needles. As the winds pick up and become more brisk,a carpet of gold and brown pine needles are scattered all over the Mountain. As I look up into the Ponderosas, I see where the older needles have already turned color, readying for their flight to the ground. They are a reminder of the cycle of shedding and regrowth. The oak trees also show off their bronze leaves and they cushion my boots as I hike along my favorite trail. It’s as if all outdoors is getting ready for the changes to come. 

The scents and sounds of autumn. For me, there is a crisp quality -- a dryness to the air. The pungent smoke from chimneys and campfires is a reminder of comfort and warmth, bringing with it the memory of friendships and the cozy sensations of autumn. As leaves lose their moisture, there is a different sound, a gentle rustle when a gusty wind skips them along the forest floor. The V’s of flocks of migrating birds is a sure sign of cooler weather on the way. 

The changes in the weather. In years past, I remember fall as being warm and balmy, a last touch of summer. This year’s cycle is unusual. As the season moves along, I can feel winter coming close. Somehow, even the rays of the sun feel softer with the shorter days bringing a quiet, mellow feeling. 

Autumn is an opportunity for me to use all of my senses to savor the season. As I begin to remember the magic of warmth with layers of zip up hoodies and lighter weight jackets, I welcome the changing season. You too? Autumn, here we come!

 I’m curious: what are your feelings about the fall season? What part of autumn is your favorite? I’d love to hear from you at www.unstuck-living.com. 

I hope I have opened the door to enjoying the little things, both here on the Mountain and in your life. Be looking for future articles in Outdoors SW!