Thursday is the first day of autumn, the autumnal equinox, one of two days in the year when the lengths of day and night are in balance. I enjoy the longer stretches of night in the dark half of the year – partly due to my sunshine allergy but largely because I find it beautiful when twilight stretches and the stars are visible for greater lengths of time.
Since I am having to appeal my visa result, it looks like I may be spending autumn in New Orleans. This area isn’t nearly as atmospheric as London this time of year, but I am still determined to enjoy the season. Below are some activities I plan to take part in to make the most out of this transitional season.
- Curl up with a cozy novel.
- Watch the sun set from a hill (or levee).
- Take a nature photo walk.
- Collect pinecones and such for crafts. (Bake them first to kill any creepy crawlies inside.)
- Press leaves.
- Make a seasonal wreath.
- Attend a harvest festival.
- Buy fresh local produce at a farmers’ market.
- Carve a pumpkin.
- Roast spiced pumpkin seeds.
- Bake pumpkin pie.
- Eat spiced apple slices.
- Mull cider.
- Eat a pomegranate.
- Read the story of Persephone.
There are certainly plenty more way to enjoy the season, but it’s not cool enough outside just yet for many of them. The anticipation will make them all the more special.
Here are this week’s suggestions for fun and enriching activities:
- Relaxing Music: “The Dance” by George Winston. You can listen to it here or find the album on Amazon* or streaming.
- Soothing Sounds: Kingdom Costuming with the Haberdasher by Goodnight Moon.
- Puzzle: Countdown. You can find the game here along with everything you need to know about how to play.
- Movie: Pocahontas (1995). You can find it on Amazon* or on a streaming service. While it’s certainly not historically accurate, I really enjoy the music.
- Creative Prompt (write, draw, paint, sculpt, photograph, or collage something based on this subject): autumn
- Mythology Lesson: Persephone. Read about her here, and do a little further research if the mood takes you!
- Short Reading: “The Elves and the Shoemaker.” You can read and listen to it here.
Try one per day or everything every day, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a more vibrant daily round.
*These are Amazon Affiliate links.
What do you like to do in autumn?
Magical Musings 