Each season I perform certain rituals that signify changes in routine brought on by the weather. I have always particularly enjoyed the transition from hot, muggy days that breed laziness to the crisp, cool feel of fall. Growing up in the Mohave dessert has given me a healthy appreciation for rain and I enjoy ushering in the “mists” of Portland (since the rain here is actually pretty wimpy compared to the torrential downpours in Seattle).

As I strolled across campus yesterday on my way to a lab meeting in the Physics Department a gentle breeze whipped my sweater around me. The air smelled clean and fresh, as it only can in the fall. Even though it was supposed to hit 80 degrees in the afternoon, the morning seemed reluctant to acknowledge the meteorologists’ predictions. Having arrived early I couldn’t resist popping into Starbucks and ordering my first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season. There really isn’t any better way to say hello to autumn. I cradled that cup as though my life depended on it and slowed my pace in order to savor my last few moments out-of-doors before descending into the dungeons of Science Building 1.

Then today I wrapped up my last batch of homemade applescauce and started drying apple slices to store for wintertime. I had really hoped to can before the end of summer but I think now I”ll just content myself with large vats of apple cider, a freezer full of stews and soups, and warm muffins just out of the oven.