Fall is a Blur--Is It Over Yet?

I know there are still several weeks, even months, of fall left. But when Brian's only going to be home in time for Thanksgiving and then Christmas, it seems my favorite season is all accounted for, and in some ways, all over, since he left today for nearly a month.

It's kind of ironic that I'm all but wishing fall away this year, since I usually feel it passes too quickly. Some of my favorite things about fall are the warm days and cool nights, leaves as beautiful as a vibrant sunset, the smell and sounds of dried leaves under my feet as I enjoy being outdoors, a resurgence of apple and pumpkin foods, and the string of October and November birthdays that makes the season even more nostalgic for my family.

Of course life goes on when Brian's not here. Even some fun things, for the girls and for me. For example, we have 4 friends' birthday parties to go to in the next 3 weekends. Then there's Sydney's birthday, Halloween and trick or treating, my birthday, and Miranda's birthday. And I definitely enjoy spending my evenings reading a book or watching my favorite "chick show" (Brothers and Sisters on DVD, thanks Kathleen for getting me hooked!) But fall to me is just not living up to its potential when we're not getting out with the whole family for some outside fun, to make our own family traditions, especially now that both girls are more cooperative for outings.

Well, there's hope for us this weekend, since Nana and Aunt Laura are coming to visit (to celebrate their October birthdays!) As long as it doesn't literally rain on our figurative parade, we'll go to the pumpkin patch for hayrides, a petting zoo, and bouncey houses. No need for pumpkins though, I already have a couple--literally and figuratively.