There’s something about the shortening days, long shadows and cool air that gets me every year. The summer sun has drifted slightly lower in the sky, making the nights cool - perhaps even cold enough to warrant the throws at the end of the bed. Snuggling under warm quilts is it’s own secret joy when the temperature drops.
The ever-growing piles of leaves crunch underfoot. I want to be mad at the mess they are making of the front yard but seeing them turn golden, marking the passage of the seasons brings a comfort of sorts. Further afield the Adelaide hills come alive with the fire reds, burnt oranges and golden hues of the trees. Day trips through the hills to stop at a cozy cafe, a stroll through a picturesque town or a wine by a fireplace somewhere beckons me.
Books that smell. Curling up to take in the pages and words and possibilities. Transported to a different time or place, or perhaps awoken to new perspectives. Movie nights in the lounge room, blankets and popcorn a must. Sharing the classics and discovering new favourites that will be revisited over and over again.
A sweater or a scarf; something soft, preferably wool, to help shield me from the cooler weather. The joy of walking out into a fresh wind but having a structured jacket to wrap around close to protect. Ugg boots, who doesn’t love Ugg boots!
A cup of hot tea or coffee with a dash of cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Wrapping my hands around the steaming exilir in the cool air of the morning. Even more special when everyone else is still in bed, the quietness a salve. A glass of wine in the late afternoon, just because I can.
The smell of woodsmoke, cinnamon doughnuts, apples … My mouth waters just thinking about it. It’s the time for comfort food; the dishes I grew up on and continue to make for my own little family. Hearty dishes to fortify me for the longer evenings ahead. Slow cooked sauces, roasted meats and home made soups.
Long walks on the beach; little Pepper trotting happily at my side as I breath in salty air and watch the waves roll in to shore. The kids running along the sand, their own treasure hunt to see what the waves have brought to our beach.
Waking up to a cool snap in the air after open windows all summer long, these warm and comforting thoughts about autumn have me looking forward to the months to come.
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