So, here’s a secret: I work on this feature all week, throwing various amazing things into a folder of favorites dubbed, oh-so-originally, “Fantastic Friday.” Since I work every other Saturday, I get every other Friday off – so I usually throw the links into a post before I head home on Thursday nights. Guess who forgot to do that yesterday? Yeah. That would be me. But now I get to present you with a visual feast!

Autumn has long been one of my favorite times of year (in high school, autumn of course = marching band, which was my life’s purpose those four precious years), but I realized in college just how much I adore the season. Everything is so festive, & here in Ohio, we’re treated to colors that (in my humble opinion) rival the famed New England resort towns. I grew up in the heart of Ohio’s apple orchards, & I probably know more about the various varieties than any normal person ought to (but still far less than my mother does). Bushels, fritters, cider, pies… that old Johnny Appleseed cartoon will always have a spot in my heart.

Today is a particularly grey rainy (& typical) day, but I’ve got chicken stock brewing, Josh Groban on my stereo, & I’m off to run a few errands. Have a ‘fantastic’ day, everyone! :)

Look at the tiny press box!

Are you hungry yet?

I don’t even like these, but it’s not fall until I buy a bag!

Mmm; the first sweaters of autumn…