It’s officially aroma season, which seems to come quicker each year, thanks to Starbucks setting off a stream of pumpkin spice mist in August! And no complaints from me, because I love a good essence of spices, which tends to mean some good ole comfort meals — fancied this time of year — are about to have a revival in the kitchen.
Just the thought of traditional faves gets our taste buds revved up, knowing that a menu of sweet and savory is coming soon to a dinner table (or tables) near you. Some traditions bring about war, while others come in peace. I’m not mad at a good battle over which recipe is better — sweet potato pie vs. pumpkin pie, apple or peach cobbler, pound cake or cheesecake, or even turkey over ham — ‘cause when the dust settles, give me all the flavor, and we will become one in fellowship amid a judgment-free zone.
But a true Southerner knows sweet potato pie is always better (ha!). Just saying.
Good eats aren’t the only thing served up in the fall; the air and rich color palettes are probably the leading cause of depositing a little “happy” into the soul of society. Among other good reasons to enjoy nature’s unique personality, this is also a time to reset ourselves ahead of the hustle and bustle of what we have deemed to be the most wonderful time of the year — the countdown to Christmas!
The important thing to note is that Fall (my favorite time of year) should reflect a time of comfort for retreating to family, fellowship, self-care, healthy routines, and most importantly, love. With the holiday season knocking at the door, time is not slowing down one bit for any of us to determine how we want to show up for others, and ourselves.
So wake up and smell the spices (or pine trees), because just like family, they aren’t going anywhere for a spell.
In this issue of Memphis Parent, we focus on health and wellness, and I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the attention we’ve dedicated to the interest and concerns of today’s parent community. From daily events of meal planning and childcare, to navigating major happenings as they transpire, parents have their hands full with little to no time to process their own mindfulness. Helping children overcome trauma; creating simple and healthy comfort-food recipes; sports activities that engage the whole family; hearing loss prevention for adolescents; an outstanding teacher’s commitment to students with special needs; and managing your mental health during the holiday season — all covered in this lineup.
We hope you will find these features to be wholesome and hearty for your enjoyment and delight. Next up, peppermint mochas!
Later, my friends!
- Erika Cain, Editor