•October 27, 2021•
By Cheri Burcham
Family Life Educator

Fall is my favorite time of year, so when I read this article from Extension Educator Emily Schoenfelder, I wanted to make sure and share it with you. Emily says: I don’t know about things in your neck of the woods, but here in Central Illinois, the indications of autumn are everywhere! The shorter days are marked with bright blue skies and a crisp breeze, mums adorn doorsteps, and there’s pumpkin spice everything! In case these tell-tale signs don’t ring true for you, last week also marked the Autumnal Equinox, a date when the day and night have equal timeshare and meteorologists make it official. It’s fall!
This is my favorite season, and I kicked off the festivities by digging my tall boots out of the closet, throwing an extra blanket on the bed, and spending the weekend hawking pumpkin doughnuts at a small-town harvest festival. (BTW, I think I’ve found a new calling - I can sell the heck out of fair food!) But the real reason I love fall is all the opportunities the season affords for family fun, mental well being, and a smooth transition into winter. The mild weather makes it easier to spend time outside, enjoying the physical and psychological benefits of being active, soaking up some vitamin D, and reconnecting with nature. The end of the agricultural season gives us time to enjoy the abundance, community, and gratitude that comes with a successful harvest. And the shorter days and cooler temps help us prepare our bodies and minds for what’s to come.     Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.