Southern California. It’s quite the icon. An emblem of sunshine and ode to the beach bum. It’s where it never rains, where to get your best tan, and where the superstars flock. As a Colorado native, I imagined California as it’s portrayed in the movies or one of its anthems. I pictured coastal highways, palm trees, and everyone with a surfboard in-hand. Oh, and lots of traffic- that is a very true California stereotype. And for the most part, these expectations were met in full.
What I didn’t take into account, however, was that here in SoCal, it really never rains- nor fluctuates in temperature all that much. And I seriously underestimated the implications of such a phenomenon. In fact, this year, I pretty much forgot about Fall until I considered writing this post. That’s when I realized that all of us California residents could use a reminder that seasons still exist. Maybe not here, but somewhere. Somewhere out there, Fall is alive and well. Leaves are changing colors, temperatures are dropping, and flannels are being worn. So, though this October does not exude a change in season, let’s resolve to celebrate nonetheless.
Celebrating Fall the California Way…
Lauren:
How do you celebrate a California Fall?
Chloe:
Chloe needed a little convincing, but she came around eventually and is now a big fan of pumpkin spice lattes. So, though she’s a bit apathetic about the change in season, this California girl is on her way to becoming a Fall fan, we’re sure!
How do you celebrate a California Fall?
I wish summer would last forever. But, our co-worker, Lauren, introduced me to Pumpkin Spice Lattes and they’re kind of…well, really delicious. I do also love blankets, hot chocolate, and sweaters. I also love me some warm herbal tea…you can’t go wrong with herbal tea. And finally to celebrate…I kinda just do the same things I’ve been doing. My actions don’t change for Fall other than I wear jeans instead of shorts now.Okay, good…well, Lauren and I are working on Chloe. You’ll see, next year Fall will be her favorite!
Shane:
Shane is actually from Lufkin, Texas. But, his answers still apply because, per my research, East Texans have a similar Fall experience as us Southern Californians…but maybe with some added precipitation.
How do you celebrate a Texas Fall?
I’m excited to see summer go and embrace Fall with open arms! Outside festivals aren’t so hot to attend, and I enjoy the neutral colors. Admittedly, I never got behind the specialty drinks at coffee shops. But I drink black coffee throughout the year and love sipping it outside in the cooler air. And finally, I love fall decor and pumpkin scented candles!Once again, per my extensive Lufkin, Texas research, I’m sure it’s nice to see a change in the weather because this town looks almost as hot as Redlands!
Sheldon:
Sheldon, a PNW native, is always happy to see cooler, cloudier, and more Fall-esque weather. So it was no surprise that he was also very enthusiastic about Fall, deeming it the ‘best season of the year!'
How do you celebrate a California Fall?
Sheldon had excellent ideas for Fall festivities! I am for sure going to steal them! Fall is by far the best season of the year! I love fall weather, colors, food, EVERYTHING! Going to the pumpkin patch is always a classic. Every Fall, my family gets together and makes about 50 gallons of fresh apple cider. And, while I’m living in Southern California, I want to go to all of the major theme parks for their “spooky” themed events.Whether a PSL fanatic or a content Californian, I hope that this season is full of cozy things, pumpkin flavors (which are objectively good), and a break from the Summer heat. Because no matter where you live, Fall is a great opportunity to celebrate the little things in life- like taking a coffee break outside, indulging in a homemade treat, or changing up your wardrobe. And while these may seem insignificant, they are, in fact, what makes life so sweet! So, this Fall, be sure to not let the season pass you by. Try some pumpkin coffee, watch a movie, take a walk in the crisp air. Whatever you do, set aside some time to unwind, take a breath, and celebrate this new season- even amidst palm trees and 90-degree weather. Happy Fall from C7D!
