Greetings blog friends! Autumn officially arrived here on September 22 as per my wall calendar. The weather from September 20 to 26 inclusive was good, with mainly sunny skies and some rain on one of the afternoons. Daily high temperatures ranged from 16C to 26C (62F to 79F). A nice transition from summer to autumn.
Autumn arrival
When I go cycling and walking around my neighbourhood, the grassy fields and many trees are still green. Some of the late summer flowers are in full bloom. Look at these pink cosmos and dahlias. Aren’t they gorgeous?
The maple trees are changing colours though. Every morning I see more and more of the yellow, orange, and red hues that are part of the Canadian autumn splendour. It’s like Mother Nature has done her painting overnight and touched a dab of red here and a dab of orange there.
More signs of autumn are at the grocery stores: Potted mums in assorted colours and pumpkins in orange and white. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten white pumpkin yet, have you?
I love having four seasons. Every time a new season arrives, it’s a reminder for me to review and switch things up in my daily routine. Each season lasts about 13 weeks. That’s a nice period of time to try something new and see results.
Haircut
I started making changes at the top, literally, my head. I went for a haircut. First time since COVID-19 pandemic started here in mid-March. Same hair salon, same hairstylist, new procedures: Temperature check, hand sanitizer, masks, bigger space between chairs, contact tracing sign-in sheet, and less talking.
I was the only customer in the salon at the time. After having a few inches of my hair cut off, I feel lighter and ready for the new season. My hair length is now the same as in my profile photo.
Fitness
- Swimming: The long range forecast is calling for a nice autumn season so I anticipate to continue my cycling and walking outdoors. Paddling on the water is going to end soon. I may resume indoor swimming as a substitute for paddling since the pools are open.
- Resistance bands: My resistance band broke after I’ve got so much good use out of it. I replaced it with a 4-pack resistance band set that comes with a door anchor and different resistance levels: Light, Medium, Heavy, and X-Heavy. I love that resistance bands are light, portable, inexpensive, and good tools for home workouts or when I travel.
- Boxing: I’m going to add no-equipment boxing workouts to my fitness routine to spice it up. I tried boxing before and liked it so this autumn is time for me to bring boxing back into my life. I’ve seen some good boxing workout videos on YouTube. I’m saying Yes to jab, cross, hook, keep moving, stay focused, and have fun while doing it.
Reading
It’s a coincidence that while I’m thinking about switching things up, I received a Skip the Line notification that one of the e-books I put on hold became available. This novel is titled The Switch, written by Beth O’Leary. The Skip the Line option lets me jump the queue and borrow the book for 7 days only, as opposed to the usual 21 days.
The Switch is a story of generational location swapping. It showcases how it’s never too late to change your life and pursue your dreams.
The Switch is funny, positive, warm, an easy and enjoyable read from beginning to end.
I had read O’Leary’s debut novel, The Flatshare, and enjoyed it a lot, too.
Overall a good first week of Autumn. It’s time to switch up a few things in my daily routine to keep me active and happy. No drastic changes, just a dash of spices here and there to challenge my mind and body.
How did your week go? I’d love to hear your comments.
Linking here.
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Natalie the Explorer 
I’ve never heard of white pumpkins either! A great update Natalie 🙂
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Debbie, We have white and orange pumpkins here in the Fall. You can bake, cook, scoop, puree or freeze white pumpkin just like typical orange pumpkin. The white pumpkin is easier to carve and paint for Halloween decorations. I haven’t had white pumpkin because it’s too much to buy one whole white pumpkin. I’ve had orange pumpkin pies though.
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Beautiful photos, Natalie. I have seen white pumpkins before, but I always thought they were odd. I’m glad you mentioned, The Switch. I believe I have that on my Kindle, so thanks for the reminder. We had painters working in the house this week, so it was a little hectic. I’m looking forward to a quieter week. Enjoy!
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Jill, I hope the painters do a great job that meets or exceeds your expectations. I’ve had orange pumpkin but haven’t eaten white pumpkin yet as it’s too much for me to buy one white pumpkin and I don’t see them sold in smaller portions. Have a wonderful week!
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Hi, Natalie – Thank you for sharing your first week of Autumn. I’ve already begun switching things up as well. I’ve already switched over my spring/summer clothes for my fall/winter ones. That’s very early for me!
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Donna, Based on the weather forecast here, I’ll need to switch over to Fall clothing next week. Today’s high is about 23C and partly sunny.
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It still seems like summer here. The nights are cooler, but the days are warm so I’m still wearing shorts and sandals. I adore autumn so I’m getting anxious for it to start in earnest. I like the idea of focusing on switching it up. Perfect time of year to do so.
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Ally, Autumn is a beautiful season. Switching it up every new season usually gives me new energy and ideas.
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I’ve never tried white pumpkins, but I do love fresh pumpkin pie. it sounds great to get a haircut. I have not been that brave since the pandemic started. I’ve cut my own hair a couple times, but not been to a professional….
Fall is my favourite season Your photos are beautiful.
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Maria, I like fresh pumpkin pie, too. Good for you to know how to cut your own hair. The hair salon that I go to is a small business so I wanted to support them by getting my haircut there. I’m glad you like my photos. I take them with my cell phone and it’s an older model phone.
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I always assumed that most of the pumpkins you see displayed at the store were for fall decorating only, and that there was a difference between the pumpkins used for decor were different than the ones used for baking. I’ve seen white and a chalky teal blue pumpkins at the store but have never bought one. Now I wonder what the “meat” on the inside looks like. I’m one of those weird-os who doesn’t care for pumpkin pie so I guess I’ll never know!
Those autumn leaves are so beautiful. We get just a few around here but it’s still too early. I’m actually looking forward to switching into sweaters and long pants.
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Janis, The white and orange pumpkins are edible. They can be carved for Halloween decor. The flesh inside the white pumpkin is off white, just like the skin. The autumn leaves are really beautiful here. I see them every year and am always in awe at the sight.
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Hi Natalie,
We used to live in Colorado Springs where we could count on having all four seasons (and sometimes all in the course of one day. . .) so now that we’re back in California, I really miss those, sometimes, wild weather days. Your local hair stylist protocols sound just like ours. I had my haircut about a week ago and we went through all the same steps as you did, except the gal who did my hair was very chatty. We had a great time laughing about stuff and I now look much more civilized than I did when I walked in.
Thanks again for some great photos of Toronto – always a treat.
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Gary, The hair salon that I go to is a small business so I want to get my haircut there to support them, plus I don’t do a good job when I cut my own hair. It’s my pleasure to share my photos of Toronto. Glad you enjoy them.
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Goodness! Look at those pumpkins! Halloween has come early!
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Yes, ’tis the season of pumpkins and potted mums over here. Five weeks to go before Halloween.
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My book club liked The Flatshare and so did I. Had added this latest O’Leary book to a consideration list for our read for September but the group chose Big Lies in a Small Town which was very good. I try not to vote and let the group select our books so I often read things that I might not pick up on my own.
Glad you were able to safely get a haircut. I have had 3 now, I think. Only one in the salon, too. In and out in a hurry.
It has been so hot here that we haven’t seen a lot of indications of fall yet. Hoping with the sudden drop in temps tonight that the leaves will begin to turn soon.
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Leslie, Thanks for mentioning Big Lies in a Small Town. I’m going to add it to my list of loan requests. My haircut appointment was quick, too. I wanted to support the hair salon and my hairstylist since it’s a small business.
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Hi Natalie, I love the Fall season in your part of the world and the colours are glorious as is the images of the dahlias. I’m hoping to get to the hairdresser this week as it has been quite some time and I always feel my spirits lift after getting my hair done. My week has been taken up with two days with my grandsons which I just love. I’m also putting the finishing touches on a Retreat I’m running with a Yoga friend in November Another new experience for me. Have a great week and I love boxing too! #lifethisweek xx
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Hi Sue, Your two days with your grandsons must be so much fun and loving. I felt lighter after my haircut and it’s easier to maintain especially when I resume swimming. Boxing is a fantastic workout. I’m glad you love it, too. I look forward to hearing more about your Retreat.
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Hi Natalie – it sounds like Autumn is off to a great start for you (I bet you felt really refreshed after that haircut). I loved all your Autumn colours and that you have plans to continue on with your wellness activities as the weather begins to change. I’m enjoying things getting a bit warmer where we are and wearing lighter clothes!
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Leanne, Yes, the haircut was good. Shorter hair is practical for my fitness activities and easy to maintain. Spring is a beautiful season and to be able to wear lighter clothes is a big plus. Have a wonderful week!
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I enjoy following your blog. You always inspire me with your varied activities, and the beauty that you see around you that you willingly share. Autumn colors have come on fast here in North Central PA. I am determined to drink them in as long as possible. Boxing?! Wow, You Rock! Michele
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Michele, Your first sentence made me smile, thank you. I’m interested in many activities and thrive when I have variety in my day so you’ll see that on my blog. The boxing I do at home is without equipment. I use my fists and body. Autumn colours are so stunning. I know you’re enjoying them. Have a wonderful week!
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When I visited Canada it was Autumn and oh, how I marvelled at the vast array of pumpkins. Fall is such a pretty season and I miss the four distinct seasons now that I live in Australia. Summer is super charged but the other seasons are much milder than I was used to in the UK. The Switch is next on my reading list, I’ve just finished The Flatshare and absolutely loved it!
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Sammie, You chose an excellent time to visit Canada. We have the best autumn colours and lots of pumpkins in September-October 🙂 I’d love to hear what you think about The Switch after you read it. Have a wonderful week!
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Hi Natalie, we don’t really get a proper Autumn and Winter here but I grew up in New Zealand where there were definitely four seasons. I love the Autumn leaves changing colour so I miss that. I had my hair cut too, my first since May! It was in dire need of it and I enjoyed the pampering. Regards, Christina
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Christina, A nice haircut makes us feel good, doesn’t it? I like having four distinct seasons. Autumn is beautiful here. I see the leaves changing colours every year and am always in awe at the sight.
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Autumn is looking lovely in your neighbourhood Natalie. I’ve never seen whit Le pumpkins before. Will have to check out the heirloom seeds. They’d be interesting to grow. We are having a lovely time here with a few sunny days. It’s wonderful to enjoy sunshine after the winter
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Jennifer, I included a photo with the white pumpkins because I know they are less common than the orange ones. Sunny days make a big difference. Enjoy all the wonderful things that come with Spring!
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Autumn is looking very lovely indeed. I really miss having an autumn… The Switch is on my list to read too. I’m actually blaming a return to (online) boxing class for this leg injury – entirely my fault of course. Too much too soon & I forgot that I was 12 years older than the last time I did it. Sigh.
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Jo, I’ll be careful with my boxing exercises. We’re at least 25 years younger in our mind than our actual age. I hope your leg injury gets treated and heals well. I’d love to hear what you think of The Switch after you read it.
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I’m convinced that I’m still 28…
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Me too. 28 is a wonderful age.
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What a nice week full of great plans for the autumn ahead. I finally got the hair under control last week as well. An eyebrow wax and taming of the head mop made me feel 10lbs lighter.
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Antoinette, A nice haircut makes us feel good, doesn’t it? You must be so busy with your upcoming cook book launch. Have a wonderful week!
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Wow! Good for you for adding boxing to your fitness routine. That sounds exciting. I will be watching for your posts to see how you like it. I am debating about swimming inside right now. Our rec center has 2 indoor pools. I think if I go at a time when not many people are there (usually early afternoon), I could do it safely. Happy Autumn!
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Laurie, I find boxing is really good for overall conditioning. The swimming pool I go to have applied public health COVID-19 measures and limit swimmers per hour so I’ll go and see how I feel. Happy Autumn to you, too!
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if the are no photos of the new hairdo then it didn’t happen hahahaha
Its definitely summer in our neck of the woods and the sun is trying to turn me into a blob of hot chocolate fun times … hoping it rains soon
been working out looking forward to summer pool parties when the outside is allowed
~B
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Beaton, LOL I didn’t think to take before and after haircut photos. Hope your wish for rain comes true. Thank you for stopping by. Have a fun week!
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I can smell rain!!!!!! fingers crossed
~B
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If there are no photos of the rain then it didn’t happen hahahaha.
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true… it seems like it was phantom rain, I woke up to go check and there’s no sign of the rain during the night^_^
~B
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I love having all 4 seasons as well, though autumn is my fav. A bit of a switch up is always good. I need a haircut soon, though I had one in July. Maybe in October. I hope you have a wonderful week.
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Trent, Autumn is beautiful and great for outdoor activities during the day and sleep at night, not too hot not too cold. Have a great week!
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Yes, perfect weather 🙂
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Happy Autumn!! And such beautiful photos! Those flowers are all AMAZING!! Thank you for sharing all that you do as you always keep me thinking of things to keep moving and enjoying life. Have a great week Natalie!! ❤️
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Diana, Happy Autumn to you, too. Thank you for reading my post and taking your time to comment. I greatly appreciate it. Have a wonderful week!
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Hi Natalie, I see photos of the maple trees back East. Gorgeous! You are right. We are fortunate to have four seasons. Our haircuts sound about the same, in our city. A coincidence on how your ebook “The Switch” became ready to borrow. Sounds like an entertaining read. We have just returned from our unplugged Long Beach camping trip. A lot of rain and smoke drifting in from the South. Still a great time to rest, recharge and restore my body and spirit. Very enjoyable post. Beautiful photos!
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Hi Erica/ Erika, Welcome back! I’m glad you had a restful and refreshing camping trip. Long Beach and the surrounding area are beautiful and special places that we are fortunate to have in Canada. This time last year I just came back from BC. I’d love to do hiking, whale watching, and visiting magical Tofino again. Have a wonderful week!
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Interesting how even though we camp in that area, we have not been to Tofino for many years. Maybe next year. xx
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My hair is very short and when COVID restrictions had everything closed, I did wonder how I would cope. Fortunately there was a strict new policy for hair dressers and barbers in our state around that time, I was first in with a booking. I know the difference a hair cut can make. The images around your area of the world in Autumn are a delight. I am only familiar with boring green pumpkins which we used to cook with. They are an integral part of a roast or baked dinner here and are also a staple for soup and can be made into scones. Thanks for linking up for #lifethisweek. Next week the optional prompt is 40/51 Share Your Snaps #8 5.10.2020 Hope to see you there too. Denyse
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Denyse, A good haircut sure makes us feel better. Autumn is visually beautiful here as we have a lot of trees and their leaves change colours over a number of weeks. I look forward to your link up next week. Have a great week!
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Hi Natalie, I also love living with 4 seasons – something I didn’t know about until leaving Australia to live in Russia! We’ve had autumn weather here only for the past 2 days – until then we were still in summer mode, quite hot and not a cloud in the sky. I like autumn, but bring on winter, it’s my favourite season!
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Hi Cheryl, Autumn is visually beautiful here with the leaves changing colours and they look so brilliant in the sun. Winter has its beauty, too. We’ll both get there in a couple of months 🙂 Have a wonderful week!
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The northern hemisphere does autumn so well! I love the whole “pumpkin” decorations thing that you do. We don’t do that here in Australia. Your colours are gorgeous.
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Leanne, Autumn is beautiful here. We have fields of pumpkins so carving some of them for Halloween or Fall decorations is fun and inexpensive. Lots of potted mums in various colours, too.
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I loved The Switch. I listened to it on audio and it was really well done
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Colline, Yes, it’s a good read. Hope your school week is going well.
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Let’s say that I am getting used to working under the restrictions that have been put in place.
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I hope the working conditions stay stable for you. Have a restful and happy Thanksgiving!
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