The last few months of the year are the most special in my eyes. In September, we get back into routines. We have more sit-down dinners, we bake with apples and pumpkins, and some of us even start to plan for the upcoming holidays. As the weather cools down, I get into my cozy girl mode. I have absolutely no shame in saying that I love fall. Zero. It’s the best time of year! Even if it feels like it lasts for approximately 5.4 seconds.
I don’t mind Summer with its long days, the heat, and the outdoor activities. But like a cool down after an intense workout, fall is a welcome change. From an early age, we’re programmed at this time of year to think of it as a new beginning. A new school year with new clothes and school supplies helps us say goodbye to our summer routines.
I start to get in the mood for fall by mid-August, but I restrain myself from actually participating in fall activities until later in the year. Even if a fall is mild, it’s not until the days shorten to that early evening hour that it really hits as having arrived.
According to surveys and polls, fall is the most popular and favorite season for a majority of Americans. Some people prefer the cooler temperatures and the end of the summer heat. The changing colors of leaves, crisp air, and the scents of spices and bonfires evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy, while the abundance of harvest festivals and pumpkin-flavored treats add to the season’s charm.
Fall fans look forward to changing our wardrobe from shorts and sandals to fleece and boots. People talk about snuggling up with blankets and hot drinks on cold nights with the windows shut and maybe even a fire going. It’s almost like the weather gives you permission to veg out, which is something that I crave after a busy week.
The scents and flavors of fall (like cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin spice) literally trigger our brain’s reward centers, reminding us of good times and making us feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Autumn brings with it a sense of coziness and calm. According to Amy Jane Griffiths, Ph.D., N.C.S.P., a licensed psychologist and professor at Chapman University, she says, “We all crave the comfort and security that comes with traditions and predictability… They may relate to joyful experiences with friends and family and provide something to look forward to… things like fall holidays, back-to-school season, or seasonal treats.”
When I read that I was realized that there are legitimate psychological reasons as to why we love the fall like we do.
One of the best reasons is that it is the start of soup season! Nothing beats a bowl of warm soup on a cool night. So, put on your sweater and haul out that big soup pot.
Creamy Potato Soup Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 large white onion, chopped ½ teaspoon sea salt 4 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 4 cups vegetable broth 1½ pounds Yukon gold potatoes, about 5, chopped 1½ cups cooked white beans, drained and rinsed ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika Freshly ground black pepper
Optional toppings: Scallions or chives Cooked bacon Greek yogurt Cheddar cheese
Instructions Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Sauté 6 to 8 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic, stir, and cook 2 more minutes. Stir in the white wine vinegar and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds, and then add the broth, potatoes, and white beans. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer 30 minutes. Let cool slightly, then transfer half of the soup to a blender with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, the mustard, lemon juice, and paprika. Blend until smooth and return the pureed soup back to the pot. Use a potato masher to gently smash the potato chunks and beans. Season to taste with more salt and pepper and serve with desired toppings.
