Those autumn leaves ...

I love autumn. I love the scents, the colors, even the crisp chill that arrives after a blistering hot summer of sun, fun and humidity. I know, falling leaves herald the coming of falling snow flakes in some parts of the country (mine included) but even knowing those sub-zero winter days aren’t far behind and that the hummingbirds have already started their migration to warmer climates, there’s still a special something about fall that I embrace even more than the renewal of spring. One of my favorite things about the season is the scents – especially those coming from the kitchen this time of year. Let’s face it, as wonderful as the smell of steaks or burgers on a charcoal grill is, nothing can compete with the mouthwatering aroma of a pot roast cooking in the crock pot permeating the entire house. Or a pot of chili simmering on the stove top. And don’t even get me started on pumpkin pie and hot chocolate ...