Ask Aunt B

Dear Aunt B,

Thank goodness we have had a break in the heat here in North Texas. Now I am ready for the holidays. Is it too soon? I know the stores don’t think so, but I'm not sure. I would really appreciate it if I just relaxed awhile and enjoyed the weather.

Too Soon for Christmas Dear Too Soon for Christmas, Yes, I agree it is too soon for Christmas. I also like that you are so appreciative of the cooler weather. Boy, it has been a brutal summer.

I agree with you all over the board. I want to just relax and enjoy this weather. What is keeping you from doing just that? Is it that everywhere you look you are being reminded of what is happening for the next three months?

One idea might be to take a small amount of time and plan your next three months. Having a plan and knowing what you have ahead of you could help you to relax and enjoy this time.

Start by going for more walks. I know we don’t have the spectacular changes of the trees but, if you look, we have some. Go to the Dallas Arboretum. Hands down, it is my favorite Dallas place. Right now, they have more pumpkins than you could ever imagine. Pack a picnic lunch and take it with you. Don't forget a blanket to sit on the ground.

Speaking of pumpkins, I might imagine you tire of everything pumpkin, but you do have to admit they are pretty special. Try doing something different with your carving of the pumpkin. I just saw one carved from the bottom instead of top. I liked it. I also love roasted pumpkin seeds and pumpkin soup. Look for new pumpkin recipes. If you don’t like pumpkin, then look for something to do with all the great squashes available.

Get your favorite sweater out. I absolutely love sweatshirts and have enjoyed them this past week. Change the shoes you are wearing. It could be a little early for the boots but changing out of the flip flops is nice.

Enjoy some great teas and coffee in great mugs. I'm sure you have some nice ones before the Santa ones break out of the closets. Try some new soup recipes. I love love love some soup and have really missed making it as well. There are some fabulous recipes on Instagram. Maybe bake a pie. Doesn’t pie just seem like fall for some reason?

Get out the candles and the blankets. Sit outside and wrap up with a blanket. Light a fire if you have that option. The fresh air is amazing.

Fall harvest festivals are starting to show up all over town. These can really get you in the mood to celebrate fall.

Start a new fall family tradition. Plan a movie and meal together where you all join in the preparation. Have the movie be a fall themed movie. I just did a search, and there are quite a few. If movies aren’t your thing, plan your meal around game night.

Happy Fall, You All

Love, Aunt B

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