There is a saying out there that advises a person to dress for the job they want, not the job they have. It’s wise advice, but I have taken the adage in a different direction: a seasonal direction.
We are now well passed Summer’s end but you would never know it judging by the lush greenery, thunderstorms and constant temperatures in the mid-90s.
So, instead of dressing for the job I want, as of now I’m dressing for the season I want: namely, Fall.
I pulled all my tank tops and capris out of my dresser and stored them to make room for my favorite jeans, sweaters and flannel shirts.
My flip-flops have been replaced by boots and the suntan lotion in the glove compartment in my car has been swapped for Chap Stick.
In short, I’m ready. Bring it.
I have a fire pit in my back yard I’ve been itching to see burning once more and I can’t bring myself to wait another day to line the steps leading up to my porch with pumpkins and flowering mums.
I want to pull out and dust off all the recipes for my favorite hearty soups and stews, I want to sip apple cider and take my boys Trick-or-Treating.
I want to feel that crisp Autumn wind on my cheeks and see the leaves turn garnet and golden and I want to bake apple pies and homemade breads to let those sweet smells permeate throughout my house.
When I moved to South Carolina from my home state of Michigan, I was concerned I would miss out on the Fall foliage and chilly temperatures.
In my mind’s eye, I pictured the entire state as nothing but coastal palm trees and beaches — imagine my surprise when I first saw the rolling foothills of the Appalachians turn bright with fall colors.
It took a while, but I’ve finally become accustomed to the heat in the Summer. Although admittedly, I find myself looking more and more forward to Fall and Winter as each year comes to a close.
I’ve gotten a few odd looks at the grocery stores dressed in a turtle-neck shirt when the weather is clearly not threatening to drop anytime soon — but I’m committed.
In true Yankee fashion, I thrive in cold weather. Whereas the heat seems to sap my energy and make me want to hide in the air conditioning, I find blustery winds invigorating and will pretty much find any excuse to hang around outside.
I can’t wait to jump in leaf piles with my kids — if my trees in the back yard would ever get around to dropping them.
Until then I anxiously await, wrapped in flannel, rake in hand.