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By Chris Quilpa

Gosh, a new season is here — autumn! Yet, we’re still having this COVID-19 pandemic. I pray, Almighty God, let us enjoy the season and help us end this pandemic so we can go back to normal living. We’ve missed a lot of time and opportunities to celebrate life with families and friends.

It’s autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. The weather is kind of moderate, milder, colder and more breezy and windy, at times rainy, compared to the hot and humid conditions that summer brings.

For nature lovers, enjoy the beauty of nature, especially the green leaves of trees, while outdoors, if you can, for sooner than later the leaves will soon change their color and then, eventually, fall to the ground.

It’s wonderful to watch autumn leaves as they change colors from lush green to bright yellow, to orange, to red, and then to brown. The fall foliage is a delightful sight to behold.

Unlike summer with longer days and more sunlight, autumn has shorter days. With less sunlight exposure, trees have a shorter time to produce chlorophyll, the substance that gives plants their green color.

Autumn is the time of year that English poet John Keats called the “season of mists and mellow fruitfulness.” It is also famous for its harvest time, turning leaves, cooling temperatures and darkening nights. It is the season where pumpkins are plentiful, too.

What do you love about autumn? The beauty of nature. Everything looks stunning in autumn! When the weather is a bit drizzly, you’re OK with being inside. Bring back the homemade stews, soups and plenty of hot drinks. It’s time to celebrate Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas. Thin socks, jumpers and hats. Cool days with cozy sweaters and cozy nights. Drinking a mug of apple cider. Going apple picking with family and friends. Going leaf peeping. Baking a pie.

Some changes take place in autumn. Weather changes. Colors change. Mood changes. All shades of warm colors contribute to comfort, excitement, cheerfulness and optimism, according to many psychologists.

Enjoy your morning walk while you can. Do it with a friend, your pet dog or a family member. To be out there under a morning sun is such a relief and a blessing, because you’ll never know what to expect but the beauty of nature — the sights and sounds of the environment — and become appreciative and grateful you’re alive and well.

You and I know that walking is the best form of exercise. It is a simple activity, and it doesn’t cost a penny to go out for a short walk. Of course, you need a comfortable pair of shoes, but they don’t have to be costly or expensive.

Have fun but be safe, and enjoy autumn with all of its colors and coolness.

 

Chris A. Quilpa, a retired U.S. Navy veteran, lives in Suffolk and Portsmouth. Email him at chris.a.quilpa@gmail.com.