Autumn trees

Autumn

There’s just something about autumn that makes it my absolute favorite time of year. After sweating through those long, hot summer days, the first cool breeze of fall? It’s like a breath of fresh air. The weather hits that sweet spot—not too hot, not too cold—making it the perfect season to get outside and actually enjoy being outdoors, without melting in the heat or bundling up against the cold. Autumn weather reports don’t make any mention of either humidity or wind chill. That’s the way it ought to be.

One thing I’ve always loved about fall is the light. There’s a certain crispness to it that’s hard to explain, but it’s different from any other time of year. It makes everything seem more vivid, more alive. The reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves just seem to pop against the clear blue sky, turning even the simplest view into something kind of magical.

 

Autumn trees
What autumn looks like in my neighborhood.
© 2020 Greg Nason. All rights reserved.

And don’t even get me started on the air. Autumn air just feels cleaner, fresher. Maybe it’s the cooler temps clearing out the leftover haze from summer, but there’s this stillness to the air that’s perfect for a peaceful hike or even just a quiet picnic. It’s like the whole world slows down a little, and you can actually breathe deeper.

Plus, let’s be honest—there’s a real sense of satisfaction knowing the grass finally stops growing so fast in the fall. Fewer weekends spent mowing the lawn means more time to kick back and really appreciate the beauty of the season, without that constant upkeep hanging over your head.

For me, autumn is also about finding a bit of peace. It’s that little break before the chaos of the holiday season kicks in, a time to slow down and enjoy nature’s quiet transformation. The cooler, quieter days just have this way of making everything feel more calm and relaxed. If you’re anything like me, it’s the perfect season to unwind, take it all in, and savor life’s simple pleasures.