Fall

“I would rather sit on a pumpkin, and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion.”
― Henry David Thoreau

Many Autumns, Shawn and I enjoy hiking and exploring. This picture was taken from Natural Bridge.

I will never forget the first time I really smelt Fall. That distinct, musky aroma that a change is occurring.  A passing of a season.

It was a late Saturday night, arriving home from college after a game. The two hour drive I knew I was looking forward to time spent with the family, and just being someplace a little more familiar, but what I got when I arrived I didn't know I was really needing. I was in my early twenties. Yes, even though I grew up in this very same location, the smell of Fall didn't get my attention until I was twenty-something. 

It was dark, cool, and the sky clear. As I stepped out of my car I wasn't anticipating being greeted by this scent. But the smell came rushing up to me, like a long lost friend. I remembering standing there in the dark, taking a deep breathe, as if I was trying to fill my body with it. I wanted to take in all I could. I didn't even know I was missing it/ wanting it/ needing it. A peaceful thought came to me, I was home. 

Ever since then, when Autumn comes around, I take time to search out that same smell. I'll walk through the woods or through the fields, and once again take in a deep breathe. Filling up my lungs. I find myself taking a moment to say thank you for this season. Like it, I must change, die, and be made new again. Appreciating, that yes, I am home.