Living in Southern California all my life, I never really understood the obsession with autumn that so many people have. But after a recent October trip to Colorado, I finally get it! So, tell me what it is about this time of year that you love so much? Tell us about the harvest season or holiday traditions in your corner of the world. Maybe share a favorite fall recipe that puts you in that autumnal spirit. Do you live in a place that has gorgeous fall colors? Share a photo so we can all be leaf peepers. If you celebrate Thanksgiving, share the must have items for your family dinner. Celebrate Guy Fawke's Day? Educate us about that. Let's celebrate this bountiful time of year. Thanks to Sadie and Connie for these homework suggestions.

Maryland has wonderful autumn foliage from about mid-September to late November. Autumn is my favorite time of the year because it looks so beautiful with all of the pretty colors. It is hard not to find a doorstep or porch decorated with a fall reef, pumpkin, or some other type of fall-like ornament. I am totally guilty of this. This year, I repainted the outside door so that our reef will look more vibrant with the door color. I always ask my husband not to rake the leaves from the lawn so quickly because I love the look of it. He, however, can?t seem to be able to leave them because as soon as a leaf falls, there he goes to get that loud and obnoxious leaf blower ... urghhhh!

Traditions: Some of our Thanksgiving dinner ?must haves? are: Sweet potato pies, candied yams, potato salad, deviled eggs, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, cabbage, collards, two types of rice (one flavored, one plain), and red velvet cake and banana pudding.

My favorite family tradition is to go around the dinner table and have everyone say what they?re thankful for. We then say a prayer and toast with some Apple Cider Champagne from real champagne glasses?.the kids love that.

Thank you, Darylynn.