It is Fall yet?

I've been looking at bear, fox and squirrel images as some inspiration for my Fall designs. I for one can't wait for Fall, but this year isn't any different from most in that regard. What is it about Fall? Is it the muted colors of the falling leaves? The crunch of them under our feet? Do we long to snuggle up in a cable-knit sweater with a hot mug of tea or chocolate, a good book and a soft, cozy blanket? Is it the cooler temperatures or the prospect of holiday gatherings?

Whatever the answer to your personal longing for our next season, it approaches nonetheless. Personally, the cooler temps are a gift of which I never tire. The grey days and rainy afternoons lend themselves to a perfect afternoon of testing news recipes and designing beautiful or adorable new creations. The kitchen awash with the sweet aromas of cinnamon, orange, cardamom, nutmeg and ginger make me nostalgic for my childhood, but also inspire me to create sometimes rare and delicate flavors.

I don't know what this season's most interesting or flavorful combinations will be, since the ideas are still brewing in my head, but a few things come to mind. Brown sugar, spiced pecan cookies with maple or chai frosting? Ginger-Apple Cider cookies with hints of nutmeg and clove? Something in the cranberry/orange realm with a surprising ingredient; rosemary?There has to be something other than Pumpkin Spice, right? Although I always do some of those each year just for a smidge of tradition.

Do you have a favorite flavor combination or dish that evokes memories of warm kitchens full of family and friends? Are you looking forward to coming season? What's your favorite part of Fall in the Pacific Northwest, or wherever in the world you are currently? I'd love to hear your answers to these questions in the comments below.

I'm not sure how often I will have time to write these blog posts, but will try to do something at least once a month. Until then, enjoy the rest of the warmth and sunshine wherever you are and know that I'll be looking forward to grey, rainy days very soon!