As the summer warmth begins to fade,the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air and leaves begin to fall. This can only mean that fall is finally here! Now, don’t get me wrong, I love summer– there’s just something about fall that I cannot resist! This year has been one for the books: 2020 has been by far the most unpredictable and powerful year in history. However, that shouldn’t stop us from having a proper fall season! If 2020 has taught me anything, it’s that time is precious, and we can’t take that time for granted. There are so many fun fall activities, but these are by far the most epic!
- Go Apple Picking
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Ok, I know this one sounds a little cliché, but it is a fall staple. Living in New York, this is one of my favorite traditions that I partake in every fall with my family. Not only can I pick fresh local apples, but then I can bring them home to make some homemade apple pie! Apple picking is a great way to spend time outdoors and immerse yourself in nature. Since life often gets in the way of seeing our loved ones, apple picking is a great way to spend quality time with friends and family! In addition to all of this, apples hold some significant health benefits – so don’t forget, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!”
- Go on a Hike
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Since most institutions have implemented remote learning in some way, this semester has definitely been difficult. Being in front of a screen all day and night is certainly not fun and can become quite exhausting. So, I urge you to go out for a hike and enjoy the beautiful, crisp fall air. Being indoors for so long has been difficult, but going for a hike is a safe and responsible way to leave your house during the pandemic. Aside from being able to leave the house, you’re also able to enjoy the fall foliage on your hike!
- Keep a Journal
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Mental health is extremely important, especially when the seasons start to change and the weather becomes colder. I, for one, really believe in keeping a journal to write down my innermost thoughts and feelings. Writing in my journal also helps me unwind after a stressful day, because it’s a safe and private way for me to express myself. If you don’t know what to write, or if you feel like it might be childish, just start by spending a few minutes each night writing down some of your thoughts or just how your day went. If you need some motivation, try to find a really cute journal that will help inspire you.
- Bake a Pie
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This is a fall staple and it’s something that everyone should try at least once! We all have a favorite, whether it be apple, pumpkin, pecan, or any of the several options! Besides, who can resist a fresh, homemade pie? Baking is a great way to get your creative juices flowing – you could also freshen up on your baking skills. Besides, get your eyes off of the screen! You can use those freshly picked apples from the farm to whip up a delicious apple pie. If you keep experimenting, you might just bring the best pie to Thanksgiving dinner! This is another great way to have fun with family and friends; You can challenge each other to a bake-off and see who has the best pie- although, I am sure they will all be delicious!
- Visit a Fall Festival
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This last one may be my all-time favorite fall activity because there is just so much to do, and no matter how old you are, the fun never ends! Fall festivals are a great way to experience everything fall has to offer. Some festivals have pumpkin patched you can visit, so grab a pumpkin or two to carve at home! While you’re there make sure to get some apple cider and try a fresh apple cider donut – you won’t find a better one anywhere else! Many fall festivals have corn mazes as well. Which are really fun to do with family and friends – just try not to get lost in there! After the corn maze, be sure you hop on a hayride and relax and further enjoy the fall scenery! On your way out, I’d recommend getting some freshly roasted corn! There is something for everyone at a fall festival, so let out your inner kid for a day!
Fall is such a great time to sit back and try to relax. I know that things can get stressful, but it’s important to live in the moment sometimes and enjoy what little time we have on this Earth! Make sure to make time for yourself this fall, even with the stress of online classes. Take a moment to soak up all that fall has to offer and have fun while doing it!