Even though the autumn equinox falls in late September, to me, October just "feels" like the true beginning of the season. The cooler weather, cloudy days, colorful leaves that crunch under your feet. And of course, there is my favorite holiday this month: Halloween.
October is a month where I feel everything is changing; I've never felt the depressed "everything is dying" label some pin on this type of season. To do that, I believe, can be detrimental. As much issue as I have with winter depression, I've never felt it in the fall. It feel like a time of preparation in nature, a grand finale of color before the trees and perennials take their long sleep.
It is a time for apple desserts, ciders, spices. A time for baking honey cakes, spooky ghost stories, exploring old buildings and dwellings. It is a time for planning how I will celebrate Halloween with my friends! Like some of you perhaps were, I was told as I grew older that Halloween is a child's holiday only, but I not only disbelieve this, but feel engaging in fun, youthful celebrations is a great way to preserve one's mental well-being.
Autumn also seems to awaken my witchy side. I want to put on my cloak and light candles, stroll under the moon and leave offerings to Hecate at the crossroads, have a bonfire. Not sure what it is exactly about fall that causes this pull toward magic, but it has always been there--and it is especially strong in October, which I suppose could be called the Witching Month.
What will you be doing this October, this Halloween? If any of you have plans to honor your ancestors, I would love to know your rituals or ideas. I'm hoping to do something for mine this year, as well.
~Autumn Blessings~
Lady Lapis
