what fall feels like.

crisp new textbooks cracked open for the first time. the way they smell like a library full of things to learn. brown paper makeshift book covers drawn on with crayon labeled "math" or "advanced composition."
perfect swinging weather. blustery breeze that carries you up, up, up and then back down. earlier sunsets, but not too early - yet. silhouetted houses and almost-bare trees. the way the ground smells when it's covered with fallen leaves. leather boots and wellies.


layers and knee socks and neutrals. new coats and face-framing bangs. sunlight that is perfectly warm but not hot. endless blue skies.


the clanking of radiators that have been hibernating all summer. and mugs full of warmth. swizzles of cinnamon sticks, pumpkin-pie candles. banana bread. big pots of soup simmering. down comforters. afghans. and toes cozy in slippers or stealing warmth from the toes next to yours.