Each Monday on the Pure Purpose blog, I feature This Week’s 7, a simple list about an everyday topic, giving you ideas and encouragement. This week’s list includes some of my favorites of fall. Depending on where you live, you might not experience some of my favorites because the temperatures or terrain, but I’m sure you have some favorites of fall, too. And I hope you’ll share!

1. Raking leaves. Okay, so the raking process itself might not be much fun. In fact, I usually get a blister, because I’m not used to it. But the jumping in the leaves is a blast! I remember hiding my girls under the leaves and “being surprised” as they jumped out. They loved sliding into a huge pile of leaves at the bottom of their bright yellow slide. The joys go back to my childhood, when we’d rake our large yard with giant (from my perspective) leaves. Lots of work, but lots of fun, too!
2. Colors. The colors of fall are like no other. As the leaves die, the color deepens. The sun sprinkles through the leaves and follows them as they drift to the ground. I feel as if I’m walking on a carpet of color with an umbrella of color overhead.
3. Campfires. Ah, the warmth of a crackling fire. I savor the smell of the campfire (as long as the smoke isn’t filling my eyes). I enjoy the chatter of the circle of people, often huddled together. Of course, I like a perfectly-roasted marshmallows – sometimes savored on a S’more. By the way, have you tried variations of S’mores, replacing Hershey’s chocolate bars with Reese’s or KitKats? 
4. Crisp, clean air. With the chill in the air comes a cleanliness, as if the air is more pure than any other time of the year. I know it’s not the case, because I’m surrounded by farm fields, but the cool air energizes me. Especially enjoyable is the first night’s sleep on clean sheets dried on the clothesline.
5. Cozy bundling and snuggling. Fall takes away the need to dress minimally to avoid sweating as well as the need to bundle so heavily you can’t move or be identified. A hoodie worn over a lighter-weight shirt and perhaps an earwrap and mittens is cozy and comforting. And snuggling under a blanket on the couch with family is the best!
6. Walking. Fall is one of few times I can walk for miles without absolutely needing an instant shower when I’m done. Nor do I need to bundle so heavily I can’t move. The fresh air energizes me and vibrant views inspire me.
7. Harvest. Growing up on a farm, fall harvest was an important part of the year. It was a celebration of growth and cultivation. Of course, there were always anxious times (but as a child, I was often oblivious). After watching the planting and growth through the previous seasons, I watched the seasonal circle turn upon itself.  My favorite childhood memory of the fall? Hanging out with my dad in the combine!

What’s your fall favorite?