Unfortunately,
I live in Florida where fall only exists in box store décor. Instead of cool
nights and warm days, changing leaves, the smell of fires burning, and
lengthening shadows, Florida days continue to reach the 90’s with high humidity
and afternoon thunderstorms. Palm trees sway, but don’t change, and the only
smells are those of molding damp earth.
I generally
bask in this time of year. In the past, I have hung wreaths, propped up
scarecrows, and created displays of hay bales, pumpkins and gourds. I have
watched my sunflowers bloom, and raked piles of leaves for the girls to jump in
and run through. I have donned sweaters and boots, my favorite pieces of
apparel. I have enjoyed taking pictures in preparation for our Christmas card.
As a family, we have gone apple picking and explored local corn mazes. I have
canned and baked. I have savored each and every memory created.
My time in
Florida, however, has been extremely different. The weather and lack of fall
aura have left me feeling depressed and homesick for the northeast. I have no
desire to decorate; even less desire to can or bake. With few places close by
to pick apples or run through corn mazes, I find myself apathetic and generally
sad. I cling to all things pumpkin spice
in an attempt to feel the fall spirit.
I wonder,
“Will I always feel this way living here?” I’m afraid I will. For now, I try
and focus on the positive. Fall as the ushering in of winter always depressed
me while living in Vermont. However, here the ushering in of winter means cool
nights, warm dry days, and the arrival of visitors. It is my time with those
visitors that I will cherish and work to create and savor new memories.
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