Here in the mountains of North Carolina, fall unfolds like a stroll down a Thanksgiving buffet table. From September’s appetizers at the highest peaks to November’s desserts in the valleys, over 120 species of deciduous trees offer a banquet of beauty. To a kid from flat hot Florida, and a new resident of this part of the state, the visual feast is stunning. Read more about fall in NC here, including some pretty cool videos and info on theories about why leaves change colors. I’m grateful to have a front-row seat to the changing of the season.
Even with the time change and early dark, this is my favorite time of year. Some of the delight is from inside activities—I’m roasting squash, planning pies, and wearing my fuzzy socks. But outside is where the magic happens—noticing daily changes in the neighborhood trees, crunching through leaves in the sunshine, seeing the color make its way down the mountains. It’s a cycle of life and death and regeneration that is older than any of us.
What’s the change of seasons like for you?
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature, the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.”
Rachel Carson, Silent Spring
a writing prompt
Make a list of FALL.
What are the sights, smells, tastes, memories of the season for you?
Start with your senses—the details that evoke fall, either indoors or outdoors–and see what ends up on your page.
Then choose one item on your list and write more about it.
an alternate idea
Instead of a list, you might try a mind map. Start with a blank sheet of paper, and write FALL in the middle of it.
Then draw a line and add another word, idea, or image that comes to mind about fall.
Draw more lines and words, connecting them as your mind unfolds your thoughts.
Choose something on your map and write more about it.
Advent Writing Workshops
I’ve got two Writing in Company workshops registering now for Advent. Join me to use writing as a spiritual practice for the season of anticipation and waiting. We’ll use prompts from poetry, scripture, images, and objects, exploring our memories, and our imaginations. Give yourself a gift of time and space to prepare for Christmas. No writing experience is needed, and all are welcome!
Two Workshop Options
Monday Mornings: 10:30 – noon
Monday Evenings: 7:00–8:30 pm
November 29
December 6
December 13
December 20
$99
