So, it's supposed to be fall, but that fact makes a bit of a difference depending on where you live. In the southwest Arizona area, we're still seeing 100-degree days while other areas in the good ole USA have already seen their first snowfall!
But in most of the USA cooler weather has set in, the tree leaves have their most spectacular display of color, and with that goes the annual raking of leaves. I can still remember the wonderful smell of burning leaves with maybe a hotdog on stick toasting, and if you were lucky, maybe a marshmallow or two. Ah…the simple pleasures.
Folks are getting out their long sleeve garments and putting away the shorts, swimsuits, and flipflops. Why is it there always seems to be a missing glove? We started with a pair, so where is the missing match? My wife laughs at me because the same thing seems to happen when I do the laundry and I'm always a missing a sock.
Halloween is just around the corner, there seems to be pumpkin flavor everything in the stores…and (gasp!) we're already getting Christmas catalogs!
If you are at a loss of what to do for fall activities, well, here are a few suggestions: Attend a festival or go to the Farmer's Market in your area. Is there a farm where they will let you pick your own? Been to a football game where you can enjoy a tailgate party with friends? When's the last time you've been on a hayride? Need a project? Build a scarecrow from all the old clothes in the back of the closet, and have a neighborhood contest! With the harvest completed at most vineyards, now is the perfect time to go to a wine tasting.
Whatever your choice, it's time to get into the Fall holiday mood! Get busy and make the most of this beautiful season!
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's right about making the most of fall activities, and here's something many folks don't realize: staying active and social during seasonal transitions is one of the best things you can do for your health in retirement. Whether you're picking apples in Flagstaff or attending a festival in Tucson, these activities keep you moving and connected to your community.
A lot of people ask me, "How do I stay active when the weather changes and my routine gets disrupted?" The answer is simpler than you might think. Fall activities like farmers markets, wine tastings, and local festivals are perfect because they combine gentle physical activity with social interaction. Plus, many Arizona communities offer senior discounts at fall events and festivals, so don't forget to ask when you're buying tickets.
The key is to plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities so you're not stuck when those occasional 100-degree days hit in October. Once you find a few fall traditions you enjoy, they become something to look forward to every year.