Sunday, September 20, 2015

Dead Leaves on the Dirty Ground

The season of falling leaves, Pumpkin Spice lattes, and--oh let's face it-- pumpkin everything graces us with their yummy presence. No matter where we go or what we do, we can be sure that a pumpkin will not go unnoticed. This very thing is what makes me happy. There is something that makes us all feel very warm and fuzzy inside when we see pumpkins or coffee, especially when the two are combined.

Autumn Mornings via Tumblr
Living in San Diego means a few things: our leaves never fall, the weather doesn't cool down, and the sun never disappears. Forgive my negative tone on the particular matter, but our seasons rarely change--extra emphasis on rarely. Us San Diegans can only get excited about the material aspect of seasonal change. Well after all, we don't live in the Desert where there are only two seasons: Hellish heat and colder than ice temperature. I guess we are pretty blessed in the lower region of Southern California, but lately the weather hasn't changed from its current temperature setting for weeks! Warm air and sun-kissed skin, what's to complain about?

Well, for one, we want tawny leaves to fall from the trees, we want glittery wet streets, and we want cool brisk air to brush against our skin once in a while. Obviously this desire is subjective, but am I the only one who craves a change in the weather?

Despite the fact that us SoCal inhabitants don't get to experience the joy of seasonal transition, we do get to experience the transition of holidays, and make use of most seasonal trinkets available on the market--except for beanies. Beanies are off limits over here because it's just too hot all year long to try and look that cool, even in Fall.

Don't get me wrong, Southern California is amazing, and I can already think of a few reasons why without giving much thought:

For starters, we don't have to worry a great deal about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The sun is always shining, and the birds are always chirping. I don't even think the birds migrate from our region anymore. Seasonal Affective Disorder effects people who live in cold gloomy weather conditions. Usually the onset of SAD can be noticed once fall approaches, when the weather cools down, and the time changes. The sun sets earlier in southern Cali, but the weather doesn't really change anymore, so the risk of experiencing SAD is pretty much minimal.

Another reason for joy is that the Beach is never off-limits. Our beaches are always occupied with surfers and sun-bathers, and this is a great thing. We aren't restricted to stay home due to snow storms, blizzards, or even tornados. We don't even have to stay inside when we get a small glimpse of Mother Nature's Cold Fronts. We do get drizzle, and rare bursts of rain from time to time, but these events are rare. The flip flops are still in full effect, and perhaps a hoodie stored inside our trunk in case of an emergency.

Christmas Palm Tree w/Flamingo via Pinterest
Finally, Christmas in Southern California. I highly suggest paying a visit especially during that cheery time of year. When can you ever  go ice skating on the beach? Okay, well not on the beach per se, but a few streets over from the shore. This is a truly remarkable experience for many. The sun is out, the seagulls are yelling, and christmas glee is everywhere! Palm trees are decorated with twinkling christmas lights, and snow without the unbearable chill--because it's fake!

I will admit, it's pretty awesome in this part of the continent. The thought of experiencing something different and new is just that--a thought, so make something of it. We all get bored, and if you can't step outside and instantly experience the changing seasons, I suggest you get out there and go seek them. Go someplace new and experience Thanksgiving surrounded by Mother Nature's naturally changing color palate, where the yards are filled with bushels of fallen leaves. Never let a minute of your life pass by making you wish that you could have experienced something different and new. Go experience it, and don't forget that latte.

xo





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