Fall Bonfires Breezes & Bobbing

by Sue Zelickson, Tastemaker in Residence

Remembering the days of my youth always brings to mind the times we raked up the leaves, then built a bonfire. Roasting hot dogs and marshmallows attached to the ends of the leftover twigs we had soaked in water so they wouldn't burn. 

The fall breezes and the colored leaves created a delightful backdrop for the plaid blankets on the ground and the colorful tablecloths we spread out on the picnic table.

The closer we got to Halloween, the more the picnics included bobbing for apples in round metal tubs of water, and wiener roasts, as we called them. Does anyone do that anymore?  We roasted popcorn in a metal popcorn popper with a long handle. Hot apple cider was the drink of choice, with or without embellishments such as cinnamon sticks or a splash of booze.  

Telling stories around the fire was another part of these memorable gatherings that often included a hayride in a large wagon, pulled by trained but gentle horses.

If this traditional fall celebration has faded into history and is not as prevalent as it was in the past, perhaps it's time to reintroduce it again and relight the fire that created this seasonal spirit; your family and friends just might decide that it is fall living at its best.