Falling into Autumn

FALL IS HERE and our sons do not seem all that concerned about it.

Blown brown leaves cover the trails we frequent. Boardwalks still moist from the summer are now covered with leaves, requiring caution when crossing. Many mountain peaks are powdered with fresh snow. Some days the snow line creeps closer to sea level only to retreat in the afternoon or the following day.

“Are you ready for fall and/or winter?” is a common questions on the lips of friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. “No” is my simple answer.

While the boy says "yes" to puddles...

Fortunately my sons do not seem affected by these changes and have no concept of the future fleeting light and increasing cold that is winter to come. Our boys have noticed and made small comments on the cooler days, the darkness that catches them before sooner and sooner before bedtime, the thicker jackets and hats they now need to wear outside. Other than the slight mentions of these changes life continues.

Gotta keep on going down the trail...

Before children, and during this time of year, I would nest and be lamenting the coming cold and many more hours of darkness to fill.  Our children make these reservations much harder to explore. The change in light, strong fall winds, and the pounding sheets of rain seem to take no toll on the kids' drive. Southeast Alaska is their normal. They still need to move and they still want to be outside. We do our best to support these needs and, in turn, we all feel better for keeping moving and continuing to get outside.

For kids, Alaska Fall is just like Alaska Summer (with heavier coats)...

This week we have dug out heavier coats. We've located hats and gloves and staged them at the ready by the front door. I conducted a ski bib fitting to insure that we have good fitting bibs ready for that first snow-covered playground day of the season. We have also scheduled ski classes in anticipation of winter activities to keep us all out of our home and moving!

Aw, what's cuter than a baby in baby XtraTufs?

Yes, it is fall in Alaska. Winter has also been briefly seen in other areas of the state. This is where we live and we need to be ready for the challenges and activities the next two seasons will bring! Be well prepared for the challenges with gear, shovels, and snow tires. Find those ice skates, snow shoes, and ready your ski gear. Yes, there are challenges to be prepared for but there are also upcoming activities to be excited about. Some simple preparations and anticipation will make this transition period easier for the whole family. Oh, and don’t forget to unplug that car when you back out of the icy driveway in the morning.

This fall month is my one year anniversary as Dad Blogger for Kids These Days.  Thank you to Sarah Gonzales for giving me this opportunity and corralling my written thoughts and feelings on a weekly basis.

Steve’s frequent postings can be found at www.akdad.com and other small musings on his Facebook page Alaskadad.