Paddeez MI-5

Describe your single fondest childhood memory of the fall season:
I grew up in South Florida where there is no change of seasons ... its like summer all year (only hotter!). But I do remember that the month of October brought welcomed cool breezes after a hot and sticky months. And I remember becoming aware of it for the first time. I noticed the sea-breeze causing my bedroom curtain to stand out away from the wall - and funneling the cool relief right down on my bed. It was SO REFRESHING!

2. What are your two favorite things to eat that are specific to this time of year?:
Chili comes to mind. I LOVE eating chili when the weather begins cooling off. Second would be oranges. The best citrus crops begin coming in at the end of summer ... but not until after the first cold snap. That's what makes them juicy, and sweetens the up real nice. My mouth is watering!

3. Name three items that you dig out of the closet and wear now that the weather is turning crisp?:
Definitely need my winter riding gloves. They're leather - but have an extra liner to keep in the heat while motorcycling. Second is a heavy hat ... I have a few. Since I am loosing some hair density, I seem to loose a good deal of heat from my head. So a good hat is a 'must'. Third would be long-sleeve "T"s. I have always liked them, and fall is the time to wear them.

4. Tell us your four favorite activities that you enjoy between the Autumnal Equinox and Halloween (November AIN'T Fall here in Maine folks!):
I enjoy the woods. I would enjoy them in the summer too, but Maine mosquitoes are FEROCIOUS then. Second would be the leaves. I usually plan at least one day-trip to take in the natural explosion of color. Third would be a final trip to my favorite ice cream shop. I don't normally eat it in the winter. Finally, winterizing the house. You know I'm 'from away'... right? WHO ENJOYS THAT! But this is still new to me, and I find it somewhat exciting.

5. Finally, what are the top five things that you need to get done before the winter hits?:
1 Finish installing the new pellet stove.
2 Get new (insulated) windows for the house.
3 Insulate the basement ceiling - which is also the living room floor.
4 Get the snow thrower out and make sure it runs.
5 Make one more run for ice cream ... did I say that already?

Good Day, Mate