Happiness Report No. 10

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Good morning friends, how are you? I could not be happier, because today is the first day of Fall! Last night I slept with my windows open for the first time this season, I fell asleep to the sound of crickets and a cool breeze wafting through the window. I am like a child on Christmas eve awaiting all of the gifts of Fall. I cannot wait for the bright oranges, yellows and vibrant reds that will soon greet me as I drive through the park in the mornings on the way to yoga. The scent of cinnamon, nutmeg and cider hanging n the air after a day of baking pies, breads and other tasty treats. Pumpkin pie, caramel apples, mulled wine, hearty soups and stews simmering all day on the stove, all things to look forward to over the coming months. 

I arrived home yesterday from my first long distance trip since February. My husband and I flew to the Midwest to meet our grandkids and their parents along with the rest of the family to visit my 93 year old mother-in-law. My mother-in-law lost her husband last year of 36 years and since then has been living alone in a new house, and forging a “new life.” Although she has been doing well two weeks ago she took a bad turn and ended up in the hospital so it was decided before it was too late that we all need to throw caution to the wind and go there for a visit. Thankfully she is feeling better but we cannot ignore the fact that she is 82 pounds and 93 years old. 

As with everything else in the world flying and traveling is not what it once was, nor is staying in a hotel. Thankfully most people are very considerate and socially distance at the airport, Delta Airlines which is our preferred carrier could not have made the experience any better. The planes are immaculate, and as you enter the plane you receive a packaged wipe to clean or wipe down your area for your own peace of mind. First class is at half capacity and seating is staggered, window followed by aisle, and so on. In the main cabin the middle seat is open, and boarding is from the rear of the plane to the front to minimize wait times. Frankly I hope they keep that after Covid-19, it seems to make loading the plane faster. Upon landing they ask the people exit the plane one row at a time, it is so civilized and frankly much preferred to everyone on the plane jumping up and trying to squeeze out in front of everyone else. 

As for the hotel stay, there are no amenities, no room service, no gym, no pool or anything else. You room is serviced and disinfected before you arrive, then a seal is put on the door. Once you arrive you break the seal and  then for the entire stay, wether it is one day or 2 weeks, no one but you steps foot in the room. If you need anything, a towel, water, soap you must go to the desk and get it yourself, they even give you sheets to change the bed if you want. 

Our time with the family was bittersweet; lots of fun and laughs, stories and time with the grandkids and my mother-in-law but when it was time to go there were a few tears shed that it might be the last time. I am grateful that we were able to go and I will savor the memories. Hopefully we are all well and were not exposed to Covid-19. We have now 14 day quarantine here after travel but a suggestion that “one stays one as much as possible.” so that is what I will be doing. 

I am going to use my self imposed isolation to enjoy Fall. After an exhaustive search, I was able to locate some pumpkin. In case you didn’t know there is a canned pumpkin shortage, just like the flour shortage at the beginning of Covid-19. I tried to buy it at Kroger, Target, Walmart, Hy-vee, Food Lion and several other stores in 4 states and it is sold out. I finally ordered some from Thrive market and you can also purchase a case at Costco, and Bj’s. So I will be baking and making a few new savory pumpkin dishes, I will keep you posted on my progress. 

I still have to change out my summer t-shirts for my cashmere sweaters and my shorts for pants. And of course I will be digging out all of my tartan scarves, gloves, coats, and boots. 

Are you a fan of Fall or are you mourning the passing of long, sunny summer days? If you like Fall please share your favorite foods, activities and whatever else you like about it. 

Have a wonderful day!