More Reasons Fall Is America’s Favorite Season

Fall begins today, Sept. 22, 2026, and we at The Organizing Blog are thrilled. To be sure, the season has a few wistful elements — going back to school, saying goodbye to warm weather and the outdoor and leisure time  it allows, and getting down to brass tacks at work.

But fall has its own rewards, including multiple #holidays to celebrate; the leaves changing color; fall produce such as squash, cranberries and apples and hearty comfort foods; football and tailgating; and pumpkin spice everything.

The weather alone is something that many people — especially those in hot and humid areas — appreciate. One friend of the blog is reluctant to go outside when it swelters, preferring air-conditioned environs such as movie theaters until sweaters come out of #storage.

A Rasmussen Reports survey says that fall continues to be America’s favorite #season, with 40% of respondents. Summer is second, with 24%, and spring is third, with 22%; just 10% like winter best. Regardless of favorites, 50% said that fall’s arrival improves their mood.

Much of that positive feeling stems from childhood, Mental Floss says. The thrill kids get from starting school, seeing old friends and shopping for new clothes sticks with people. The season also represents a reset from summer — back to routines and productivity.

Fall stimulates the senses and encourages better sleep, The Healthy adds. You can see it on the trees, smell it in the air and feel it on the skin. “Sights and sounds of fall trigger the reward center of the brain and release dopamine, which makes us feel cozy, calm and nostalgic.”

As you get your #fall #clothing out in preparation, figure out what items are going to deliver that warm fall feeling — the clothes that will keep you cozy and optimistic through the change of season. #Donate anything that no longer serves that purpose to ClothingDonations.org.

#Resale of your #donated items will help share those fall feelings with the nation’s #veterans by helping #fund #holiday events, health care and more. Donate fall and #winter clothing, and you can help families stay warm and reduce #waste. Here’s to a happy (and productive) fall!

Giving Thanks Is Good for You

Thankfulness is ingrained in the #Thanksgiving holiday. Most people consider how lucky they are to enjoy such a bountiful meal; they may also think about the many other things for which they are #thankful — things as simple as having a roof over one’s head, family and friends.

Expressing #gratitude is a healthy habit, according to Harvard Health. Studies show that focusing on the positive aspects of one’s life can improve well-being, strengthen relationships and encourage a sense of optimism.

Mental health encourages physical health, too. Study subjects asked to write down moments of gratitude every week exercised more and had fewer doctor’s visits than those asked to detail their aggravations or annoyances. Gratitude is good for you!

There is no wrong way to give #thanks. You can write down a few things that you are #thankful for at the end of the day, or simply review them in your thoughts. They can be everyday things or big-picture concepts; the trick is to highlight the positives.

Over time, thankfulness creates a mindset of gratitude — “an appreciation for all that life brings, good and bad,” says Tony Robbins. “When you not only have Thanksgiving gratitude but also gratitude for life itself, you’ll find fulfillment in life.”

Cook Your Thanksgiving Feast Ahead of Time

The easiest #Thanksgiving #feast is one you don’t have to #cook. But let’s face it: You won’t get the same satisfaction or quality out of a catered meal unless you spend a lot of money. To take the stress and expense out of preparing the #holiday feast, limit the number dishes you plan to serve and create a timeline of what you can make ahead and what need to cook that day, says RecipeTinEats. For example, dressing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and pumpkin pie will be taste just fine — maybe better — if you make them ahead of time and reheat or plate them just before serving. #NoFailFallCooking

Fall Appetizers That Outshine the Mains

The #Thanksgiving feast has grown to encompass so many signature dishes that it takes hours or days to stage and rarely starts on time. More problematic, some guests will hold off on food until they arrive at the festivities, risking “hangry” attitudes. Appetizers and snacks can fill those voids during the holidays, and many are so tasty that you can skip the mains altogether. Try cooking up seasonal starters such as a pumpkin hummus, baked brie or sweet potato rounds, The Every Girl suggests, for your next dish to pass or serve at a holiday feast, decorating night, gift-wrapping party or casual get-together. #NoFailFallCooking

Get Creative With Leftover Turkey

A memorable #Thanksgiving should offer not only the #holiday feast, but leftovers, too! One easy and satisfying meal you can make with the extra turkey is a classic pot pie. If you have the time and energy, make a pie crust from only five basic ingredients (flour, butter, sugar, water and salt), or use a ready-made one from the refrigerator case (no judgement here). Shred the turkey and add your favorite vegetables — onions, carrots, peas, green beans, mushrooms, celery and corn are fair game. Add a splash of heavy cream and spices, and the filling is ready! Put the top crust on and pop it in the oven. #NoFailFallCooking