The year is 2005. As I lay on the couch moaning from a horrendous case of morning sickness, I catch a glimpse of the sweet gum trees outside our picture window. Their wide leaves are turning beautiful shades in the autumn breeze. It was at that very moment the trees in my front yard went from
pain-in-the-feet to
beautiful.
I managed to roll off the couch and exert enough energy to open a window.
Ahhhhh…breathe deep…smile…
It was almost as if I could breathe in the color of those leaves. It was a balm to my body and my soul.
Opening the windows is not so much a tradition as it is a necessity. By the time Autumn rolls around, I feel cagey. I despise the heat of summer and try to avoid it at all costs (as my electric bill will tell you).
Autumn brings to me the fresh air flowing through my home I’ve been longing for. Even living in the city, just being able to hear and see and smell the outside makes me function so much better.
And the cool…oh, the cool! How inviting it is! It speaks of candles and baked goods, of sweaters and slippers. It begs me to brew hot cider and snuggle the children. It tells me to slow down and enjoy the splendor of the season. And I obey.
Heart2Heart says
Amy,
I can relate to you, that once the temperatures begin to cool, my windows are all wide open, letting the wind wind its way throughout my home and removing all the summer staleness in it’s path.
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
Hoosier Homemade says
Great post! I can sympathize with your morning sickness and I enjoy the turning of the leaves too!
~Liz
Sara x says
Someone who understands the healing of the trees. I find peace when i walk through or sit underneath the trees. I love the way you embrace fall or Autumn as we say. Its my favorite season its like the worls becomes alive with different colours, so beautiful.
Kristy says
Oh how I love fall, and despise the heat. Unfortunately, where I live, there will be heat for a while. No opening our windows yet! But I can’t wait! My hubby is the one who wants our air on nearly constantly – as OUR electric bill clearly shows!
Audra says
I feel your pain with the morning sickness! What a beautiful reminder to slow down for fall! A favorite childhood memory of mine is all of us jumping in the car for a ride to the mountains. We’d run around and climb on rocks and play in the leaves – sweet relief from the daily grind and homework!
M. Mcgough says
I could not agree more! that was why I was so disappointed when it was warm and muggy this morning, but at least we got some good weather for wading in the Bay at the park.
Just Breathe says
Thanks for stopping over. Your description of fall is perfect.
Each word drew me in. Your words flow in perfect harmony.
Kara says
Yes…I LOVE opening my windows and feeling the freshness of the outdoors! Where we live, there are only two brief windows of opportunity to do that: fall and early spring.