Monday, December 9, 2024

The ‘BER’ months: A time for family, food, and festivities

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As the calendar flips to September, something magical begins to happen. The air feels a little crisper, the days get shorter, and there’s a buzz of excitement that’s hard to ignore. Welcome to the “BER” months — September, October, November, and December — a time of the year that holds a unique charm, filled with traditions, celebrations and the kind of warmth that only these months can bring. Here are six reasons why the “BER” months are the most memorable time of the year.

  1. The shift in seasons: The beginning of cozy

September marks the official start of the meteorological autumn, and with it comes the much-anticipated change in weather. Gone (eventually) are the sweltering days of summer, replaced by the cool, crisp air of fall. There’s something about the first day you need to wear a sweater that just feels comforting. The leaves begin their transformation into vibrant shades of orange, red and yellow, painting a picturesque landscape that begs for long walks and photo sessions. It’s the season of pumpkin spice everything, warm drinks and the cozy embrace of a thick blanket. There’s no denying it — autumn wraps you in a sense of calm and nostalgia that’s simply irresistible.

  1. A festival for every month: Celebrations galore

The “BER” months are packed with holidays and festivals, each more joyous than the last. September might be the quietest of the bunch, but it’s just the calm before the storm. October brings Halloween, a night filled with costumes, candy and all things spooky. November is synonymous with Thanksgiving, a time for family, feasts and reflecting on what we’re grateful for. And December? Well, December is the grand finale with Christmas and New Year’s Eve — a month-long celebration of love, giving and togetherness. Whether you’re decorating your home, planning festive meals or counting down to midnight on Dec. 31, there’s always something to look forward to during these months.

  1. The return of comfort food: A feast for the senses

As the temperatures drop, our cravings for hearty, warming foods return. The “BER” months are a foodie’s paradise, with each month offering its own culinary delights. September ushers in apple season, leading to pies, crisps and cider. October is all about pumpkins — think soups, pies and spiced lattes. In November, the star of the show is, of course, the Thanksgiving dinner, with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. December rounds things off with Christmas cookies, roasted meats, mulled wine and festive treats from all around the world. These months invite us to indulge, savor and share the flavors that define the season.

  1. The spirit of giving: A time for generosity

As the year winds down, the “BER” months bring with them a heightened sense of charity and goodwill. This is the time of year when people come together to help those in need, whether through food drives, charitable donations or simple acts of kindness. The spirit of giving is especially strong in December, as Christmas encourages us to think of others and share our good fortune. But it’s not just about material gifts — these months are also about giving time, love and attention to those who need it most. There’s a special joy in the air that comes from knowing you’ve made someone else’s day a little brighter.

  1. The anticipation of a fresh start: New year on the horizon

The “BER” months culminate in the ultimate celebration of new beginnings — New Year’s Eve. As December comes to a close, we all start to reflect on the past year and look forward to the one ahead. It’s a time for setting resolutions, dreaming big and making plans for the future. The excitement of counting down to midnight, surrounded by loved ones, is unmatched. The turning of the calendar from Dec. 31 to Jan. 1 represents a fresh start, full of possibilities and hope. The “BER” months, with all their festivities and warmth, build up to this moment of renewal, making it even more special.

  1. The “BER” months are a sports lover’s paradise

For many, the “BER” months mean sports! NCAA and NFL football action returns, which means tailgate parties and watching the games with friends and family. Major League Baseball is moving into its home stretch toward the playoffs and the World Series. In fact, for a short window of time, all three of the big three professional sports — football, baseball and basketball — are playing simultaneously.

The “BER” months are a time of transition, celebration and reflection. They bring with them the beauty of autumn, the warmth of family traditions, the comfort of seasonal foods, the joy of giving and the excitement of a new beginning. Whether you’re snuggled up with a good book on a chilly day, gathering with family for a festive meal, or counting down to the New Year, these months offer something for everyone. So, embrace the magic of the “BER” months and make the most of this special time of year.

micky@hcnews.com