Autumn Health

Today I glanced out my kitchen window to see a tree's leaves, starting to yellow and orange from the season, fluttering in an autumn wind. I could almost smell the crisp fall air, lightly scented with a hint of smoke from a far-away neighbor's wood stove.

It certainly made me feel like autumn was here... and here to stay.

There are two reasons I love autumn:

• It's perfect running weather. Sometimes I only need shorts and a long-sleeve tee. Other times I need running tights and a light jacket. Nonetheless, fall weather is perfect for long runs through the neighborhood. (I hate the stifling heat of the summer.)

• It's perfect soup weather. I think soup is the most convenient health food. You can make a big pot that lasts all week long, so it gives you multiple meals for just one cooking session. Even better, you can add almost anything to it, so you can get all your protein, carbs and veggies without the hassle of needing a side dish.

I'm thrilled that fall is finally here. It's enough to make me want to get outside and run!