NIAGARA, Wis. — Autumn has always been my favorite season of the year. And since moving north to where I have been exposed to the full spectrum of its beauty, I still find it breathtaking every year; it never gets old. I generally lament the fact, however, that it also seems to be the shortest season of the year. Or maybe it just seems that way because I know what comes next. The winds of December that blow in the cold and snow of our northern winters have always been a time through which I simply persevere. They are the days I greatly appreciate my fireplace, my fleece-lined blanket and a good book. Besides the weather, however, there are actually psychological reasons why most of us prefer autumn.

This year everyone I knew commented on the warmth and longevity of this most glorious season. We were blessed with warm sunshine and a very gradual turning of the trees. My trips to Niagara’s boat landing and our jaunts to Marquette yielded unparalleled views of Mother Nature’s seasonal gala with the various trees showing up for the party at different times dressed in their finery. The aspen and birches arrived first, fluttering coquettishly in their golden gowns as they lined the riverbanks and dotted the hillsides and roadside shoulders. Then the grand dames entered the ballroom — sugar maples donned in their brilliant gowns of reds and oranges. These prima donnas have been around for a long time and would not be outdone as they blanketed the bluffs and hillsides for miles with their unparalleled beauty. And just as we were beginning to think the party was nearly over, the matronly oaks entered the scene. They may have been a bit late, but they were determined not to be outdone as their deep golden brown gave a royal richness to autumn’s wardrobe.

Yes, this year the stars aligned for a fabulous show. The rains held off, and the frost was late. So, autumn’s party continued into November. Despite all of the challenges in our world, we got a much-needed boost this year as the southern breezes kept us warm, the sun put smiles on our faces, and we delighted in the season’s chores. For besides being beautiful, autumn is a time of preparation for the harder months ahead. There is always a scurry to harvest the garden. We become like the squirrels and chipmunks who run through our yards gathering the seeds that have fallen along with the leaves. We can and freeze nature’s bounty in preparation for the long winter months. We experience such a sense of accomplishment and no small sense of security when that garden is harvested.

Those who burn wood — at camp or at home — are also busy chopping and splitting and stacking. Anyone who has a boat or a camper is busy getting it cleaned up and stored away for the winter months. My husband is always very busy this time of year raking leaves, cutting down the flowers, and doing any tree and shrubbery trimming. He puts the rain barrels away and “takes down” the deck, storing all of our outdoor furniture away in the garage until spring. The heavy outdoor dining table and the firepit get wrapped and put up on blocks to keep them out of the snow.

I also find myself craving different types of food. Summer’s salads and lighter fare give way to more typical comfort food. I want ham and scalloped potatoes, pork chops and sauerkraut, and beef roast and mashed potatoes and gravy. I am always reminded this time of year that we humans really are not that far removed from our forest friends. Like the bears, we are getting ready for our hibernation! This year, however, I absolutely cannot allow myself to give into those food cravings. I am trying to find lower carb substitutes — smarter, but not as much fun or as tasty.

I recently read an article written by Joni Sweet for the Verywell Mind newsletter that discusses the psychological reasons why we humans love autumn so much. It turns out that autumn serves as a “temporal landmark” — a moment that creates a structure for how we see and use time. Yasmine Saad, PhD, a clinical psychologist, explains it this way: “Temporal landmarks divide life into distinct mental phases. They allow us to put in the past negative experiences and propel a fresh outlook.”

I remember that when I was a kid, I really looked forward to school starting every fall. It was an exciting time of year. As an adult, I looked forward to getting my kids ready for another school year. And, as a family, we anticipated the last picnic of the year on the shores of Lake Superior — when the autumn winds blew the bread right off the sandwiches! We looked forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas with grandparents when the whole family, scattered across four states, came together. Throughout my working years, autumn was always one of the two busiest seasons.

In her article, Sweet explains that research shows that experiencing temporal landmarks can boost motivation to pursue goals. Ronit Levy, PsyD, explains this phenomenon as follows: “As young kids, we learned that the fall is filled with new people, places, and opportunities. It’s when we got all of our new school supplies and were excited to dive into new activities. That association stays with us into adulthood. There is a feeling of excitement and promise in the air.”

Beyond its attribute as a temporal landmark, autumn gives us other psychological benefits. We experience a feeling of comfort as we settle back into a steady routine after the more relaxed summer months with their lack of predictable schedules and structure. Vacations are more laid back, and often times our friends are gone visiting other parts of the country. Autumn brings us all back home and back to our usual get-togethers. The cooler weather also brings with it mental health benefits. We are more comfortable spending time in nature without summer’s heat, humidity and mosquitoes. The lethargy and foggy thinking of summer is gone, and we may experience a renewed sense of purpose, happiness and wellbeing.

Last, but not least, with winter right around the corner, autumn affords us one final opportunity to prepare for what’s ahead. We can spend quality time outside breathing in the beauty of our natural surroundings and file away those feelings to draw upon when winter’s doldrums threaten. Map out goals to get through the winter months. Prioritize those hobbies that will occupy your time when the north winds howl and the snow is mounding in drifts outside the windows.

And, if you should find yourself a bit depressed throughout the coming months of winter, just close your eyes and remember all those glorious trees dressed for their annual autumn gala … and remember that they will appear again — this time dressed in their fresh spring finery.

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NURSING HOMES/SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES

Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community

Kingsford

906-774-1530

Freeman’s has resumed small group activities. Visitation is currently being allowed twice weekly with screening and COVID-19 testing required before entering the building. All precautions are still being taken to protect residents. Everyone has adjusted to this new normal; however, they are all looking forward to a great get-together when it is safe to do so.

Iron County Medical Care Facility

906-874-1501

No information currently available.

ProMedica (formerly ManorCare)

Kingsford

906-774-4805

Limited visitation has resumed for family and friends. Appointments must be made in advance by calling the center.

Maryhill Manor

Niagara, Wis.

715-251-3172

Scheduled visits are being allowed in the facility’s living room. Call ahead to reserve. The weekly Happy Hour and bingo have resumed for residents only.

Sunday: Rosary, 8:30 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 9 a.m.; coffee and “Family Feud,” 10:15 a.m.; tailgate party, Packers vs. Seahawks, 2 p.m.; Protestant service, 2:30 p.m.

Monday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; “You Be the Judge,” 10:15 a.m.; pamper and polish, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; coffee and creative painting, 10:15 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Rosary/communion, 8:30; balloon darts, 10:15; Yahtzee, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 9 a.m.; Uno, 10:15 a.m.; jokereno, 2 p.m.

Friday: Bowling, 10:15 a.m.; happy hour with music, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Derby Day and coffee, 10:15 a.m.; rummage bingo, 2 p.m.

Golden Living Center

Florence, Wis.

715-528-4833

Visitation is allowed in designated areas only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Each visit is limited to 30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. All visitors will be subject to health screening before entering the facility. Residents have resumed some small group activities.

Victorian Pines

Iron Mountain

906-774-5158

Sunday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1:30 p.m.; Packers vs. Seahawks, 3:25 p.m.

Monday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Tuesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; left-center-right, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; music with Pastor Jim, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Thursday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; Lutheran Bible study, 1 p.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Friday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Saturday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; movie and popcorn, 2 p.m.

Pinecrest Medical Care Facility

Powers

906-497-5244

Sunday: Mass (channel 66.1), 11 a.m.; Yahtzee, 2 p.m.

Monday: Buck hunt, 10:30 a.m.; ice cream social, 2 p.m.; bunco, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Bingo, 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Painting, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.

Thursday: Bingo, 10 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.; room visits, 6 p.m.

Friday: Shopping, 10:30 a.m.; rosary (channel 66.1), 2:30 p.m.; games, 3:30 p.m.

Saturday: Bingo, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; room visits, 3:30 p.m.

SENIOR CENTERS

Alpha-Mastodon Center

906-875-3315

Amasa Center

906-822-7284

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at 11:30 a.m. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Beef stroganoff, noodles, carrots and broccoli-cauliflower salad.

Wednesday: Chicken cacciatore, noodles, broccoli and lettuce salad.

Thursday: Beef stew, bean salad and rolls.

Note: All meals include milk, bread and butter, fruit and dessert.

Breen Center

Kingsford

906-774-5110

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at noon. Carry-out meals also are available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Pasty pie and stewed tomatoes.

Tuesday: Pulled pork, baked beans and boiled potatoes.

Wednesday: Turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy and carrots.

Thursday: Italian dish, garlic bread and green beans.

Friday: Fish or pork chop, baked potatoes and peas.

Note: All meals served with a choice of skim milk or juice and fruit.

Crystal Falls Center

Head cook: Lucy Korhonen

906-875-6709

The center is now open and is once again serving meals for dine in or take out – call the center by 1 p.m. to make reservations or to place your order. All food is purchased from local vendors. All dinners include salad bar, homemade desserts, coffee, tea, or milk. Salad bar begins at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Pick up for takeout meals is 4 p.m., call ahead and leave a message with your phone number. A volunteer will deliver meals to homebound citizens only. Menu for the week –

Tuesday: Liver and onions, vegetables, salad bar and homemade dessert.

Wednesday: Roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, vegetables, salad bar and homemade dessert.

Crystal Lake Center

Iron Mountain

906-774-2256, ext. 230 or 235.

Home-delivered meals only — call to make arrangements. Menu for the week —

Monday: Mushroom and Swiss burger, French fries, baked beans and fresh fruit.

Tuesday: Baked potato soup, dinner roll, side salad, dressing and string cheese.

Wednesday: Chicken cordon bleu casserole, California blend vegetables, spiced peaches, bread and butter.

Thursday: Sausage pizza, spiced pears, side salad with dressing and Italian blend vegetables.

Friday: Swedish meatballs, buttered noodles, mixed vegetables and cookie.

Note: All meals include a choice of skim milk, juice, or no beverage.

For more information, call Christine McMahon at 906-774-2256.

Felch Center

906-246-3559

Now open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carryout meals also are available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Polish sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes and peas.

Tuesday: Ravioli, garlic bread and green beans.

Wednesday: Evening meal — Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and California blend vegetables.

Note: All meals served with skim milk or juice.

Aging and Disability Resource Center of Florence County, Wis.

715-528-4890

Director: Tiffany White

Restrictions have lifted at some centers. Menu for the week —

Monday: Liver and onions or chicken breast, mashed potatoes, broccoli and fruit.

Tuesday: Cook’s Choice – entrée, vegetable and fruit.

Wednesday: Roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, rolls and pumpkin cheesecake.

Thursday: Fish sandwich, tater tots, carrot salad and fruit.

Friday: Enchilada bake with lettuce, olives, onions, rice, salsa, refried beans and cheese and fruit.

Note: All meals served with whole grain bread, butter and milk.

Fence Center/Town Hall

715-336-2980 –RSVP for meal at 855-528-2372

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on Wednesday only.

Florence Community Center/Town Hall

RSVP for meal at 715-528-4261

Same as ADRC menu. Now open — serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday.

Tipler Town Hall

715-674-2320 — RSVP for meals.

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on second Thursday only.

Hillcrest Senior Dining Center, Aurora

715-589-4491 — RSVP for meals

Same as ADRC menu. Now open — serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Hermansville Center

Coordinator: Pam Haluska

906-498-7735

Iron River Center

906-265-6134

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at 11 a.m. Carryout meals also available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Ham and scalloped potatoes, green beans, roll, fruit and milk.

Tuesday: Barbecue pork with bun, baked beans, potato salad, fruit and milk.

Wednesday: Split pea with ham soup, cheddar biscuit, fruit and milk.

Thursday: Swedish meatballs, broccoli, roll, dessert and milk.

Norway Center

Director: Michelle DeSimone

906-563-8716

Now open for dine-in eating served restaurant style beginning at 11 a.m. Takeout meals will remain available for pickup. Menu for the week —

Monday: Salmon, sweet potato, french fries and green beans.

Tuesday: Ravioli, breadstick and winter blend vegetables.

Wednesday: Two meal day — 11 a.m., chef salad, meat and vegetable toppings, breadstick (no salad bar); 4 p.m., barbecue ribs, mashed potatoes and gravy and vegetables.

Thursday: Ham, scalloped potatoes and green beans.

All meals include milk, juice, fruit, bread and dessert.

Sagola Center

906-542-3273

Now open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carry-out meals also available. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Hot beef sandwiches, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables and pineapple.

Wednesday: Stuffed green peppers, breadstick, corn and applesauce.

Thursday: Swedish meatballs, egg noodles, broccoli and peaches.

All meals served with an option of milk, juice or no beverage.