Fall is finally here, let’s break out our stylish boots and scarves to celebrate sweater weather. When strolling down the aisles at your favorite grocery store, there is no doubt that we are the victims of everything pumpkin and spice marketing. It is fun to celebrate the change of season.
Outdoors
Before the cold embraces us, Let’s take advantage of beautiful sunny and crisp days with outdoor activities. Mother nature’s brush paints our central Pennsylvania skyline like a canvas. We are anxiously awaiting the rust, gold, crimson and burnt orange colored foliage. Visit the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website for a detailed map of the regions across the state illustrating the timing of the fall foliage colors. According to this website, Penns Woods has some of the best foliage color shows in the country.
If you enjoy kayaking, visit the Cumberland Valley PA website for some great ideas. On the same website you can find information for a beautiful fall foliage drive visiting several covered bridges and even a winery. Some great local hiking spots during the fall include: Waggoner’s Gap (Hawk’s watch), Colonel Denning State Park, King’s Gap Environmental center and Pine Grove Furnace State Park. If you are searching for a trail to accommodate a bicycle, stroller or wheelchair needs, check out the TraiLink website. Rails-to-trails Conservancy has converted former railroad lines into walking/bike trails that have even terrain. The website gives detailed information about each trail and directions.
Inside
My favorite fall activity is getting into the kitchen. For all the days I avoided turning on the oven this summer, I make up for it now. Hmm… shall we make apple dumplings, chicken corn soup, roast a butternut squash, bake a pumpkin pie or mull some hot cider? The smell of spice and simmering yummies in your kitchen is sure to please the entire family. In central Pennsylvania we boast a bountiful harvest. We are lucky to have so many local farms to support by buying their glorious produce.
I enjoy living in central Pennsylvania because I feel that our seasons are perfectly timed. When it seems I’ve had just enough summer heat, and long to feel the brisk air on my face of fall, October arrives. I do not envy the folks who live in a static climate, except of course when it is freezing cold with a wintry mix here. Then I might wish for a balmy year round 70 degrees. But for today, I’m putting on my flannel shirt and declaring “bring on autumn!” as I sip my delicious pumpkin latte.
Click the pictures of the pumpkin pie and pumpkin spiced latte for recipe.
