FALL

As it is the 1st of October and we head into the cooler months, today we’re celebrating all things Fall! From pumpkins to cooler weather, fall is such a special season. We’re going to share some fun facts about autumn and reflect on what this season means for us in our daily lives.

Fall is full of unique traditions and beautiful changes, both in nature and in our routines. From the turning leaves to pumpkin spice lattes (which I do not like), there’s something special about this time of year.

What’s your favorite part of fall? Is it the changing leaves, the crisp air, or maybe the fall flavors?

For me it is just seeing all the changes happening and the slightly cooler weather as well, as I really like to wear jackets and hoodies.

Did you know that the reason leaves change color in the fall is because of the shortening daylight hours? As the days get shorter, trees produce less chlorophyll—the chemical that makes leaves green—and we start to see the reds, oranges, and yellows that were there all along!

Here’s another fun fact—Fall and Spring are the only times when the Earth's axis is tilted neither away from nor towards the sun. This is why the temperatures tend to be milder and more comfortable, making it a perfect season for outdoor activities.

This reminds me of Ecclesiastes 3:1 as it says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Just like the leaves change, our lives go through seasons, and each one has its own beauty and purpose.

What’s your favorite outdoor activity during the fall? Is it hiking, sitting by a bonfire, or something else?

I personally love sitting on our back porch dinking coffee on the weekends and then sitting by an outdoor fire at night. It’s such a cozy feeling.

Let’s talk about fall foods! Did you know that pumpkins are actually fruits, not vegetables? They’re part of the gourd family, which includes cucumbers, melons, and squash. I didn't know cucumber and melons were gourds.....Anyway pumpkins are of course, the star of one of the season’s biggest trends—pumpkin spice everything! I hate to be a downer but I’m one of those people who just don’t like pumpkin anything. One years I went all out and made a completely homemade pumpkin pie thinking maybe this would make me like it…. nope. My family loved it, but I just don’t like pumpkin anything.

Speaking of fall foods, apple picking is another beloved tradition. In fact, there are over 7,500 different varieties of apples grown around the world! The U.S. is the second-largest apple producer after China.

Fall is a time when we gather together with friends and family, often sharing meals and making memories. It’s a season of abundance and gratitude, which ties beautifully into the idea of giving thanks for God’s blessings.

What’s your favorite fall treat? Pumpkin pie, apple cider, or maybe something unique?

I really like apple stuff. Apple cider and apple pie are winners for me.

Did you know that many cultures celebrate the fall harvest in unique ways? In Germany, they celebrate Oktoberfest, originally started to honor the marriage of a Bavarian prince. Today, it’s a huge festival filled with food, music, and fun.

In the U.S., we have Thanksgiving, which originally celebrated the Pilgrims’ successful harvest in 1621. It’s a time to reflect on the blessings we’ve received throughout the year. Similarly, in Canada, they celebrate Thanksgiving in October, earlier than the U.S.

Psalm 107:1 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” This season of harvest reminds us to give thanks to God for His provision and faithfulness.

Do you have any special fall traditions, whether it’s related to Thanksgiving or another fall holiday? How do you like to celebrate the season with family and friends?

My kids love setting out decorations so as soon as the first days of fall hits our decorations are out. They also love Thanksgiving foods and my homemade dinner rolls. I also tend to bake more during the cooler months, so my family is all in for all.

As we enjoy all the fun things fall has to offer, it’s also a great time to reflect on the changing seasons of life. Just like fall brings a fresh start with cooler air and colorful leaves, God often brings us into new seasons of growth and renewal.

Let’s close with this verse from James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Even as the seasons change, God’s goodness remains constant.

I’ll be praying that God gives you guidance through whatever season you are in and that you see God working throughout your life.