Temperatures dip into the low 40s, and days become shorter and shorter. Leaves wilt into bright oranges and yellows and grays and carpet the streets below the trees where they once resided. Even pumpkin-spice-flavored products are back on the shelves.

Fall has arrived.

Of the four seasons, fall takes the crown. Disregarding the hassle of raking leaves into piles, fall is one of the most stunning seasons.

Daytime weather is warm but not too warm. The wind remains crisp and cool. The morning chill awakens me as I head out the door to start my day. The dew drops shine in the spider webs on the grass, making for a perfect backdrop. Evenings are brisk, creating the perfect weather for a sprawl by the fireplace with an interesting novel.

Autumn is the transition time between the blazing summer and icy winter. When the cooler temperatures of fall start rolling in, saying goodbye to summer is not hard to do. Autumn is a great time to break out jackets, coats, boots, scarves and hats in preparation for the change in season.

It’s also the perfect time to start making hot cocoa and reviving the fireplace to create the perfect setting for a sense of comfort, warmth and reflection.

Autumn also means a great time to go camping, fishing, take a road trip or do anything else where you can spend quality time with family while eating good food.

“Down, set, hut!” Who could forget the beginning of football season? Autumn brings together people of all backgrounds rallying far and wide for their most treasured teams. Every weekend is a welcome mix of high school, college and NFL action and tradition.

The fall time for me is a time to enjoy life, and not be so uptight about things. How much more could you ask for?