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What to Look Forward to this Fall and How to Escape the Fall Blues!

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Toronto chapter.

I know what most of you are thinking, Fall may perhaps be the single most dreaded time of the year. Why? It signals the beginning of stress once again, whether it be from work, studies or having to leave our carefree summer ways behind. While summer may be over, and with it, fun in the sun, there is no reason why Fall should not be greeted with just as much love. What could this season possibly offer that a happy-go-lucky, warm summer can’t? The answer is right in front of you, if you open your eyes to the excitement Fall has to offer and are open-minded to change, no matter how sudden.

Here are just a few examples of what can pull you out of your autumn funk:

Fall Fashion
Now sure, shorts, skirts, dresses and flip flops are probably the most beloved pieces of clothing in our closets, but packing them away does not necessarily mean the end of stunning our friends and family with colourful, vibrant outfits! Although not as easily put together as a tank top and shorts, fall style always has a gorgeous selection to choose from. Whether you have a passion for intricately patterned scarves, cardigans, leather boots, cute hats, or fit and flare jeans, more layers is definitely not something to cringe about.

Holiday Joy and Sweet Once a Year Bliss
I think nearly everyone can agree that Fall is perhaps the most interesting season in terms of its worldwide association with both family bonding and hitting the town with friends. Nothing can compare to the comforting feeling of gathering around the table with close relatives, laughing, catching up, and relieving stress, while eating a delicious homemade Thanksgiving dinner. For many of us, eventful summers, the start of yet another school year, and new responsibilities at work have taken their toll on our tempers. Thanksgiving is about the best remedy for an agitated spirit. If Thanksgiving doesn’t do it for you, Halloween is also an event to mark on your calendar with eager anticipation. Halloween is a time to satisfy your sweet tooth, re-live your childhood, and better yet, dress as outrageously as you desire. For some of us, carving pumpkins is a must do, while others take pleasure in handing out candy from their doorstep. Whether you prefer staying at home or the thrill of a costume party, only the most pessimistic of us can possibly turn these fall traditions into a nightmare.

Mother Nature’s Fall Gifts
Fall is anticipated year round for its beauty, and with good reason. I am personally instantly energized by the sight of bright yellow, red and orange leaves that only make an appearance during this constantly changing season. For those of you not as easily soothed by the scenery, the irresistible scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, caramel, pumpkin pie, and apple treats are sure to bring at least some happiness into even your most hectic days. Those who would rather calm their nerves with a quick walk or other physical exercise need not fear either. Autumn’s cool, refreshing breezes are a welcome break from scorching heat, an enjoyable medium between suffocating warmth and frost-bite cold. Clearing your thoughts and trying to find a reason to get out of bed in the mornings are not as difficult when you wake up to sweet aromas, cheerful colours and cool yet comfortable weather.
So what exactly is there to complain about this season? Not much actually, all you need to do is close your eyes, take a deep breath, and make the most of it before winter greets us. Seriously, indulge while it lasts and even the end of summer won’t seem as depressing as it once did. 

Picture Sources: 
http://www.kidactivities.net/category/seasonal-fallautumn-art-crafts.aspx
http://www.localfoodplus.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/pumpkin…
http://cashmereup.info/images/Sea-Green-Original-Long-Vee-Cardigan-Women…

Vanessa is a third year student at the University of Toronto. She is majoring in Employment Relations with double minors in Sociology and Human Geography. She is excited to start the Fall 2012 year as the new Campus Correspondent after a year of being a contributing writer for the Chapter. She will be studying abroad at the University of Oxford during the summer of 2012, hoping to come back with many experiences to write about. Aside from her studies and Her Campus responsibilities, Vanessa has a great appreciation for style, health and fitness, travel, and the finest dining experiences Toronto has to offer.