Autumn Days Are Here Again

Autumn days are here again, and in Michigan, it’s supposed to herald the beginning of cooler weather. Leaves change from green to gold and orange. Sweaters and jeans become standard clothing again. Football, hay rides, and pumpkin patches are the favored activities of many. But it’s the energy of Autumn that I love, that liminal space of transition between Summer and Winter—a time to prepare and plan for what is to come (or harvest what has become fruitful).

Autumn Holidays

Ah, September. Pumpkin spice products from lattes, teas, and baked goods have multiplied in coffee shops, bakeries, and grocery stores everywhere. Apples, squash, and gourds are abundant for anyone who uses them. And if you are from Michigan, a cup of cider and a plain (in my case, gluten-free) donut is a must.

But the highlight of the month is the celebration of the Equinox.

This year, Ode and I began cleaning, sweeping, and clearing clutter from our living space. With cedar and rosemary, we cleansed our home’s spiritual energy, sweeping what remained out the door with my besom. Then we put a pot on to boil, casting a spell as it simmered—fruits like lemons, oranges, and apples bringing health, energy, and prosperity into our intentions. Saffron, vanilla salt, clove, bay, and cinnamon to strengthen our will while wafting fragrant steam to sain ourselves.

Then we lit candles to honor our family who have crossed the veil and remember our ancestors as the veil thins and Samhain soon beckons. And in the coming weeks, we will remember who we are and celebrate our sovereignty and the life we choose. We have entered the Season of the Witch and it is glorious.