Fall’s Splendor
With summer ending this week, my favorite time of year is finally here; minus the allergies that come along with it. There is something special about fall with the crisp, refreshing air it brings.
The sky shows off its vibrant sunsets, which are amazing as they light up the sky with the artistic work of an awesome God. Not to mention, the attraction of the gorgeous colors from the changing leaves, which draw people from all over to view the spectacular sights. Fall is definitely a colorful season to enjoy. Loving photography as I do, it is also one of my favorite times to go on nature photo shoots.
Hiking and bike riding are more enjoyable in the fall. It’s not too hot, and not yet too cold. The pleasure of the outdoors works wonders for the soul. It refreshes, renews, and relaxes. Fall festivals are also popular during this season with homemade apple turnovers, collard sandwiches, handmade crafts, live music and so much more.
Old fashioned carnivals begin to pop up in communities, as we gather with family and friends. The excitement of children lining up to ride the Ferris wheel rings throughout, as others take a chance of winning a stuffed animal at the toss-the-ring game, all the while enjoying a candy apple. Lawns are covered in fall décor; colorful mums, pumpkins, scarecrows, and bales of hay show the season is in full bloom.
How could anyone not love fall? There is so much to do. I encourage you to find a festival; visit a carnival; go on a hike or bike ride; take a trip to view the beautiful changing of the leaves. Life is short, so grab family and friends and venture out to enjoy this refreshing season.
Reaping Fall’s Garden
Gardening has many benefits from the time of planting to the time of harvest. Working the garden is therapeutic to the soul, as it is beneficial to the body. Summer harvest is almost over and fall is soon to begin. With fall planting, we will soon reap fresh collards, lettuce, spinach, mustard greens, kale, turnips, and more. These vegetables will be just in time for the holiday season as we gather to enjoy hearty meals with our families.
Green leafy vegetables are vital to our health, as they provide vitamins A, D, C, E, and K. They are inexpensive and very valuable to our bodies, as they reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. They are low in fat, high in dietary fiber, and rich in folic acid, potassium and magnesium, as well as containing a host of phytochemicals, such as lutein, beta-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene. They are also valuable for people with type 2 diabetes, as well as being rich in iron and calcium.Â
So why not fill that plate up with some good old fashioned greens and make your body happy!
