Playworks sells toys that invite play and enhance development in children from birth through age five

Whoa! We're in autumn, at least according to the calendar. Here at Playworks temperatures are too high, as in triple digits on the official first day of fall, for us to have noticed. Yet on that very same day, the first snowfall of the season fell at the highest elevations of the Rocky Mountains. Obviously, the arrival of fall manifests itself in different ways in different places, but everywhere seasonal changes are in the air.

Let's resolve to take notice and celebrate all that makes the evolving season unique and special. We may lament the waning of what we hold dear about the previous season, but let's look with wondrous eyes on what's taking its place. Embrace the changes and ENJOY!

The days are growing shorter. We must make adjustments to our schedules. The temperatures are dropping. We must put away our hot weather wear and pull out cooler weather clothing. Even what we eat changes. Farewell to those delicious summer fruits. Welcome crisp fall apples and pears.

What marks the change of seasons where you live? Do the leaves on the trees change color? Growing up I lived in Virginia and North Carolina, and the trees would turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. If you make your home in a place where this happens, celebrate by gathering glorious branches and arranging them in a basket or even a carved out pumpkin to enjoy indoors.

Yes, I know that after the colors fade, the leaves fall and must be gathered. Not an easy task, but one that provides an opportunity or three: vigorous physical exercise in crisp autumn air for everyone in the family. I know how easily children can become distracted. They may not turn out to be diligent rakers but sharing the outdoors as a family, running through the crunching leaves and jumping joyously into a freshly raked and as a parent of just such times.

What marks autumn where you live? What activities mean the most to you and your family? Do you have any autumnal projects or recipes you'd like to share? Playworks will send one of our bright red, sturdy, reusable market totes to everyone who e-mails us ideas we can share with other readers. We look forward to hearing from you.