Cool Mornings, Soft Light, Good Smells. Hello Fall!

It’s a little more difficult to feel Fall in this part of Arizona. I’m not sure you can really call it a season here as it really is more like a day… a nice fall day….and then it’s on to Thanksgiving and Christmas. The temperatures are still hovering in the 90’s here so I planted some mums in my grandma’s terracotta pot to help encourage the fall spirit. We aren’t really sure where my Grandma Maxine got this funny little guy; she just showed up with him one day way back when. When I moved back to Arizona, my mom passed it on to me so it could return back to it’s Arizona roots. He makes me smile. Even though the heat tries to fool me, I know fall is just around the corner because the mornings have a slight chill, the sunlight is softer… and I’ve noticed an increase of vehicles driving 10 miles below the speed limit. Yes indeed, come October, thousands of retirees seeking warmth and vitamin D flock to their winter homes here in Arizona…and why the heck not. What a fabulous life to live where you can enjoy the best two locations have to offer.

Arizona’s ‘good season’ is beautiful. It draws us out of our sealed up air conditioned boxes to enjoy hikes, bike rides, arts and craft festivals and outdoor concerts. It is the time of year we all remind ourselves of when it’s 110+ degrees outside and we can’t touch door knobs or steering wheels without hot pads.

This weekend we are heading to the Queen Creek Olive Mill Garlic Fest. I’m not sure exactly how much garlic one can admire, use and consume but we are going to find out. They say there is even garlic brownies and ice cream! I’m not so sure about that BUT I do want (need) a garlic hat like this guy’s!

Perhaps after all that pungent garlic we will be ready for some sweet fall treats. I’ve got so many recipes I want to try like this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread from Averie Cooks. I imagine it being warm and moist with a slightly crunchy sweet top…definitely a must this fall.

Or how about this crazy delicious looking concoction from Crazy for Crust. This pumpkin pull-apart loaf looks AMAZING!

You can absolutely NEVER go wrong with apples and salted caramel. Right?! This recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction makes my mouth water and my tummy grumble. Mmmmm.

And we can’t forget the libations! I’ve totally been into Moscow Mules lately and this recipe from Joyful Healthy Eats uses both ginger beer and hard cider – sounds like an absolute must try. The copper cups just add to that fall feeling don’t you think?

And of course, there is always this delicious creation from a few weeks ago. The Summer Sweet Peach Pie is easily adapted to a delicious fall Apple Pie with Amaretto Infused Caramel. (Just change out the peaches for apples and the rum for amaretto.)

However you are spending the beginning of fall I hope you take some time to slow down and enjoy things. Spend some extra time with a family member or friend. Catch up with your neighbors. Check out one of your local markets or festivals. Indulge in some of the rich and delicious food fall has to offer. No matter where you live and what fall look like out your window, take a moment to indulge in a treat, a nap, a good book… Fall is the long slow breath before the holiday busyness begins. Enjoy!

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