Welcome, Autumn!

 September is not my favorite month. We're between bidding farewell to long summer days and the freedom that a summer routine-- or lack of routine provides, and the start of short days, and getting up in the dark. This blog was born from an appreciation for the simple things, finding pleasures in spaces and times when it seems more challenging. 

So, aside from feeling snarky about surviving September, I reminded myself of what I do enjoy about September and the early days of Autumn. Yes, it's dark in the morning, but by the time sun comes along, I have a real sense of accomplishment. I've fed nearly 2 dozen chickens, mucked the two coops, made 4 breakfasts, four lunches, and checked a variety of other chores off the list. The leaves are beginning to turn beautiful shades of crimson and ochre. I love the crispness of air in autumn, and I can return to wearing some of  my favorite sweaters. Apples and local grapes are in season. Apple picking. Homemade grape jelly. Cider doughnuts. Apple cider.  I have a long list of favorite things to celebrate each autumn.  It all sounds deliciously romantic, doesn't it? Once I get into the fall spirit, I indulge in all things autumn. It's the transition that is difficult. 

Back to surviving September. Last week, I wrote about sheet pan dinners and slab pies as strategy to make dinners easier during this transitional period. This month, I kicked up the family's immune systems with a homemade elderberry extract. As an additional boost, I plan to make fire cider which will keep us warm during the colder months, and perhaps even contribute to good health. It's a herbal folk remedy that was made popular by esteemed Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar.  The vinegar infusion includes onions, garlic, jalapeno peppers, ginger root, horseradish, tumeric, cayenne, rosemary, raw apple cider vinegar and raw, local honey. The tonic is said to boost natural health processes and stimulate digestion. The concoction looks pretty powerful. I'll let you know how it turns out, and share a recipe, should you wish to give it a try.

I spent some of this afternoon in the garden picking our late crop raspberries, and harvesting squash, and herbs. Loofah are still growing and our scarlet runners have covered nearly very inch of the fencing. Today marks the first day of autumn. 
Whether it's your least favorite or favorite season, I imagine that we can find something to enjoy. Transition can be a bit rough at times, but when we give up the fight and lean into it,  there's an abundance of reasons to celebrate fall.

So, Happy Autumn to you all !