Finally, I’ve turned the calendar to October. I can now officially recognize the fact Autumn is here. I know this sounds pretty mundane, given that Fall is an annual occurrence. But for me, this year is special.
For the first time in many years, I will not be deploying to a war-zone during Fall. In their wisdom, the powers that be have historically chosen me to spend so many of my Autumns in a dusty Middle Eastern desert. I’ve missed out on all the wonder of changing leaves, cool breezes, corn mazes, and pumpkin spice lattes. So this year is pretty special for me, as I have a lot of Autumn to make up for the last few years.
What I Want to Accomplish this Autumn (ie: The Fall Bucket List)
Finish the Army 10 Miler: This is my first and foremost MUST. The #ArmyTenMiler is a well-organized and motivating race featuring some of the military’s best athletes, wounded warriors…..and me! A few years ago, my husband and I finished it in under 2 hours, which I consider a huge accomplish for me. We are signed up, and ready to tackle this run again on Sunday.
Use Whole Pumpkins: There is nothing like the flavor fresh Pumpkin gives to pies, cakes, breads and soups. While this is definitely more laborious, its worth the effort. Plus, I’ll have Pumpkin Seeds available for roasting. (Stay tuned for a blog post on breaking down whole pumpkins).
Go Apple Picking: In addition to pumpkin, Apples are my other go-to fall flavor. The bargains I can get right at the source make it much easy to justify the apple strudels and pies I’ll eat all season.
Canning and Preserving: Every year at Christmas I give friends and family a variety of homemade canned goods. These include pickles, applesauce, cranberry sauce, and a variety of salsas. I want to keep up this tradition, and try a few additional care package add-ins, like homemade granola and a few cookies.
Have a GREAT Thanksgiving: This is specially important to me, as we are hosting a foreign exchange student from Germany. Thanksgivieng is one of the truly Americans holidays our student has never experienced. I want her to understand the origins of the holiday, stuff herself silly on the traditional feast, laugh at the parades, and be confused by American football.
I think I’ve set myself up with some great (and obtainable) goals this Autumn. Although there are many more things I want to accomplish, I really just want to enjoy the season. What else is on your list!?!
HUNGRY TREK 
Loved your post! The DC Ladies referred me, as you were the comment before mine. All the best to you for a fabulous Fall season! –Holly
Hey Holly, thanks for checking me out. Best of luck to you in autumn, and in finding a more fulfilling career path. And at least treat yourself to a pumpkin spice latte!
Hi There! I found your through the DC Ladies and I am so glad I was about to read your post! I am super excited about all of the things you are planning to do this Fall….I love running and I’d love to train to run a 10-miler. I’d love to know how it goes – Good Luck! I hope you have a wonderful Fall and Thanksgiving, that’s going to be fun! xoxoxo! ~Alex
Alex, thanks so much for the race encouragement. And a Happy Autumn to you too.
Hello! Saw your blog on The DC Ladies site. Great post, and I wish you all the best with your upcoming 10 miler! You can do it!
Hi Kellie, love all your cute outfits, and happy to see you can already check one off your Fall Bucket List. Good Luck with the other. Thanks so much for the race encouragement….I need all the good wishes I can get.
It all sounds like so much fun! Good luck on Sunday!
Thanks so much for the encouragement.
I’m with you on using whole pumpkins! I’ve always used canned pumpkin for making things, but this year is all about fresh pumpkin! 🙂
x Rachel
http://www.thehautenotes.com
Good for you too Rachel! I just finished a batch of fresh pumpkin bread and so happy with the results. Its definitely worth the little extra effort.