To breathe the crisp, autumnal air as I begin my day is all I have been longing for this past year.

Ever since the cold became too cold and the ground was blanketed in soft, white snow, I have been impatiently waiting for the auburn leaves to fall like confetti once again and to hear the crunch as I step on the ones that have rested on the ground.

I can hardly wait to consume as many pumpkin-spiced flavored treats as I possibly can. I will, without hesitation, stand in the line far out the door at Post Family Farms for the best pumpkin donuts on the planet, just for the box to be empty the next day. I will gladly empty my bank account on strictly pumpkin-iced chai lattes until Starbucks no longer carries the pumpkin flavoring. I will buy every single pumpkin spice candle available in stores so that every time I inhale, all I smell is autumn.

And sweater weather–oh, how I love the soft yarn caressing my skin. I love the feeling of the wind racing through the tiny holes in my shirt, making me shiver and giving me goosebumps. I love to bunch the ends of the sleeves of my sweater in my fists, providing a feeling of comfort and safety.

After a brisk, cold day, I am beyond excited to wrap myself in our old Hello Kitty blanket and prop my feet up by the crackling fire. I want to sigh a sigh of relief as the embers radiate their heat and bring feeling back into my toes. 

I cannot wait to cuddle up in my worn-out sweatshirts, my battered-down sweatpants, and my thick, cozy cabin socks. I cannot wait to curl up on the couch and watch Hocus Pocus, and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! on Halloween night. 

To breathe the crisp, autumnal air as I go on about my day is what I have needed this past year.

Though the constant stress from the start of the school year is hovering over me like an impending storm, the presence of autumn in the air, the trees, and the food make me at ease. Gazing at the hues of deep red, soft orange, and vibrant yellow that cascade across the landscape provides me with an unbothered feeling; it helps me forget every plight, every endeavor, that I experience throughout my day.

Inhale, exhale; breathe in, breathe out. The feeling of the cool air flowing through my lungs and giving me goosebumps is one of the best factors that come along with the autumnal equinox. Unlike winter, I feel unrestrained, untethered to all that I am capable of. I feel empowered and motivated to be the best person that I can possibly be. Instead of mustering up as much energy as I possibly can, I wake up enthusiastic and ready for the day to begin; I go to bed excited for the sun to rise the next morning.    

To breathe the crisp, autumnal air as the day comes to a close is what makes me feel free.