Summer is winding down and we are moving into autumn. The leaves are changing into their fall colors of orange, red, and yellow/gold leaves, eager to celebrate the new season. Fall is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and the colors that this crisp season brings. If it is not happening in your area now it is only a matter of time.

If you are looking for things to do outside, how about taking a hike in the woods. There are many designated hiking trails around the area. You will get some exercise and enjoy the colors at the same time. Let the child in you come out when you collect a variety of colored leaves. When you get home, frame them or do what you did as a child and put them between two pieces of wax paper and iron them together. You will enjoy your colorful artwork year-round and remember the fun you had when you found them.

Planning a walk along any of the Great Lakes shorelines? Look for a few rocks that catch your eye and bring them home to create a rock basket. When planning your arrangement, consider using a smaller basket so it doesn’t get too heavy. These rock baskets can be set on tables around the house. Small pinecones or acorns will add a more natural touch to your collection.

Take your family to one of the many corn mazes in the area. Farmers who have some creativity have mowed their corn fields into mazes and give children and adults alike the opportunity to venture into the unknown, hoping to find their way out of the cornfield. Everyone will enjoy the scarecrows and pumpkins throughout the farm. There is nothing that says autumn than big, orange pumpkins.

The apple orchards have a variety of apples and cider for visitors to sample. Many of them have been growing and selling apples, pumpkins, and squash for generations. There are some orchards that are also making their own wine. Check out your local orchard.

Another fall activity is a Friday night football game. Bundle up and enjoy yourself while sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with family or friends; this will keep you warm while watching the game. If staying home in the evening is more to your liking and you are fortunate enough to have a fire pit in your backyard, enjoy some music while sitting by a nice, warm fire.

Now matter what you do to enjoy the fall season, now is the time to squeeze in all that you can before the really cold weather sets in. So grab your favorite sweater or jacket and enjoy what the fall season has to offer.