the journey to hiraeth

Autumn has always been a magical time of year for me. Growing up in a small coastal town, it meant waking up to a thick layer of marine fog that blanketed the streets, rendering the world outside invisible. The scent of the old coffee maker, set on a timer, filled the air, while the fireplace crackled with warmth. The news played in the background as the adults watched and the children eagerly devoured our warm breakfast.

As night fell, we gathered around the television, ready to dive into the world of scary movies. Ghosts, witches, and vampires were always a hit, though I had a soft spot for films on the cutesy side rather than the gory ones. Trips to the local Blockbuster store were an integral part of our autumn tradition. We’d wander through the aisles, carefully selecting the perfect movies to watch, and then return home to set up our makeshift movie theater in the living room. The floor was covered with sleeping bags and blankets, while the coffee table groaned under the weight of nachos, popcorn, candy, and more.

But it wasn’t all about indoor activities. As a family, we cherished stormy nights at the beach, watching the waves crash dramatically against the rocks. My mom, a culinary wizard, often prepared roasts, whether it was beef or pork, with potatoes and carrots. This hearty meal not only filled our bellies but also filled our hearts with nostalgia.

Autumn also brought with it fun fall festivals hosted by our school. Games like bobbing for apples, bean bag toss, and navigating corn mazes filled our weekends with joy and laughter. And then there were the treats—popcorn balls, candy apples, candy corn, apple cider, and more. I’ll never forget wearing my Halloween costume to school and the excitement of my mom coming after school to paint my face in the bathroom, transforming me into a character fit for the festival.

My mom had a knack for turning ordinary food into delightful themes. I vividly remember her crafting a snack sandwich using crescent rolls instead of bread. We painted patterns on them and turned olives into eyes, with slivers of carrots serving as eerie fangs. These culinary creations added an extra layer of excitement to our autumn festivities.

Now, as I start my own family, I hope to carry forward these cherished traditions and discover new ways to infuse each season with the same warmth, fun, and lasting memories. Autumn’s magic lives on, not just in the changing leaves and cooler temperatures, but in the traditions that bring families closer together, year after year.