By Jane Salifu
Experiencing fall is always a thrill! There is something almost magical about watching the leaves turn from vibrant greens to fiery oranges, rich reds, and warm yellows. The changing colors and the cascade of falling leaves add character and warmth to the landscape, transforming even the most ordinary surroundings into scenes that feel straight out of a postcard. This fall, I discovered a new seasonal favorite: McDonald’s Pumpkin Spice Iced Coffee. For just $2, this drink was a treat, available only for a limited time, and it perfectly captured the essence of fall in a cup. I like my drinks extra flavorful, so I ordered an additional pump of the delicious pumpkin syrup for just 50 cents more. The extra burst of flavor made each sip even more enjoyable.
One of my favorite things about fall is the yard art—people seem to go all out decorating their lawns and porches. In my neighborhood, a few houses even seem to have a friendly competition going, trying to outdo one another with displays that are funny, spooky, and sometimes just over the top! Just two houses down from me, a neighbor put up an eye-popping display, complete with skeletons lifting a coffin and one striking a cheerleader pose, pom-pom and all, which glitters at night. It’s fun to see people’s creativity and sense of humor on full display, and I’ve noticed it brings neighbors together to celebrate the season.
Of course, fall is not complete without a great seasonal movie, and this year’s big hit was Beetlejuice 2, featuring most of the original 1988 cast. I had the chance to see it at a drive-in movie theater, which was an experience all on its own! Munching on an overpriced but delicious hot dog, I enjoyed the nostalgia and humor of the film in my car—a perfect fall night. Then came Halloween and, with it, the excitement of kids trick-or-treating. It was so entertaining to see all the creative costumes and watch the children parading through the neighborhood. Each little witch, superhero, and ghost brought a smile to my face, adding to the sense of community and festive spirit.
Balancing my responsibilities as a student—taking a minimum of 12 credits—and my part-time job can be challenging. But carving out time to enjoy the season has been rewarding. These experiences are a reminder of how important it is to take a break, appreciate the moment, and make memories. Fall has once again given me moments I’ll cherish and I look forward to experiencing next year.
