Rainy Days and Mondays

The weather has been wonderfully fall-like these past few days. The first days of cold bring such a change in people. I've noticed that many young San Diegans love talking about how great cold weather is. However, very few actually seem to appreciate it when it comes. It's wonderful as long as they can stay at home, sleep in, and drink cocoa. But make them get up and go to work in what could only be described as a "sprinkle" and they recoil and complain. I admit, I fall prey to the same attitude at times. It is so much nicer to fall asleep to the sound of rain then have to wake up and go out in it. But I do love the opportunity to wear a scarf, coat, and yes, even leg warmers. Now all I need is a big pile of dried leaves to jump in, and life would be perfect.

With the cold weather, I begin to get more and more excited for the upcoming holidays. Thanksgiving is first. Along with the typical Ring Family partially gluten free feast, I have something extra to look forward to this year. The homecoming of my newly collegiate brother and other friends pursuing a higher education away from home. I'm already planning to make some special homemade applesauce and bake my special zucchini bread in celebration. It shall be a week to cherish, almost a teaser for the Christmas break to come. For December marks my favorite time of year, Christmas-time. The music, the decorations, and most importantly, the smells. I love the smell of Christmas. A good Christmas movie at any time of year can always inspire what can only be described as a "phantom scent." A perfect mix of cinnamon, apples, pine, cranberries, and happiness. I am very grateful for the scented candle industry for helping my bedroom smell like Christmas year-round.

I am getting ahead of myself. November has only just begun. I still have field trips, exams, finals, showcase, and many other things to accomplish before I can truly feel the freedom the holidays allow. But it is the promise of that freedom that makes it a little bit easier to get out of bed and go out into the rain.