Fall is officially here and we all know what that means: cold weather, football games, haunted houses, hot chocolate, and fuzzy socks. Whether you enjoy the season, or you absolutely hate it, here’s a fall bucket list that was put together by yours truly.

1. Bonfire under the stars.

Gather your blankets, s’mores ingredients, and your loved ones and go outside. Enjoy the stars and talk about everything, from how your day went to the beauty of God’s love. No phones. No Netflix. Take a moment to just talk with the people you love and actually see nature for all its worth.

2. Stay-at-home movie marathon day.

Sometimes, you just need a break from life. Skip school or call in sick at work for one day. Order some pizza or Chinese takeout, turn on Netflix or rent your favorite movies, put on your most comfortable outfit, and gather your blankets. You deserve a day of relaxation.

3. Hammock reading.

At the beginning of fall, the weather may still be warmer. Grab your favorite book or magazine, go outside, and sit in your hammock or set up a lay-out spot with a blanket and pillows on the ground. Forget about the world and the problems that come with it and get lost inside of a book.

4. Friday Night Lights.

If you're like me and you're still in high school, grab your letterman and show your school spirit at the next Friday Night football game. Go with your friends and just have fun. You're only in high school once, so make the most of it.

5. College Football Saturdays.

I don’t know about y’all, but Saturdays are meant for watching college football. Personally, you'll see me in my Sooner crimson and cream with my dad watching Oklahoma football. No matter the team you’re cheering for, get hype. Go to the game, or stay home and watch it on TV. Gather your junk food and scream your heads off.

6. Haunted Houses.

Date nights or friend dates are best spent while getting terrified. How else will you find things to make fun of your friends or significant other? It’s Halloween season, ladies and gentlemen.

7. Turkey Day.

With fall comes Thanksgiving. What else is better than having a valid reason to eat until you feel like puking? Spend some time with your family and forget that diet. You only live once.

Add or take what you want out of this list, but the most important thing is this: be happy. Find happiness in the small things and wake up each day with a new mindset. Don’t let the past weigh you down. Love yourself. I saw a quote earlier this week that said “fall in love with being alive” and I honestly believe that once you learn to do that, everything else will turn out to be okay.

God be with you all,

Marielle.