Pumpkins and Spice and Everything Nice

Pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins, They are every where this time of year. People like to decorate for the changing seasons, including me. Over the years, I have noticed more elaborate autumn decorations on front porches, doors and windows of my neighbors and surrounding communities. No longer is the single jack-o-lantern with the spooky smile sitting alone near the entry door. Now there are hay bales, cornstalks, mums, skeletons and witches with brooms all ready to greet visitors and trick-or-treaters.

Stores play a large part in this consumer trend. I remember being in my local hobby store in July to pick up some Independence Day candles and being welcomed by rows of autumn decorations. This week I was shopping for Halloween decorations and the same store was brimming with Christmas items. Aisles and aisles of trees, wreaths, ornaments, Santas, nativities, etc. And yes, the beautifully displayed items caught my attention, but I was able to focus on the task at hand. On the way home, I reflected on why we are drawn to thinking so far in advance often at the detriment of enjoying the present. I notice by the time we actually celebrate Christmas, we are on overload from too much exposure to holiday music, shows, parties and, yes, decorations.

So what is the answer? As with most things, keep it in perspective. I enjoy decorating for all kinds of holidays and events throughout the year. I especially like to bring out my fall decorations after a long hot summer. It reminds me that we still live in an area with four seasons with autumn being one of my favorite times to live near the coast. It is fun to bring out cute items to display on the table, in the bookcase and above the cabinets. It is a treat to look at pumpkins placed in an old red truck or burning a candle with an apple cinnamon scent. These changes give your senses some playtime too. Enjoy the opportunity to spice things up in your daily surroundings without radical changes. It is fun and it uses your imagination and creativity. Go for it!