Fall for Inspiration

As the air turns crisp and the vibrant colors of changing leaves surround us, we welcome the magic of fall. It's that time of year when pumpkins grow in patches, cornfields are transformed into mazes waiting to be explored, and the smell of pine and decaying leaves fills the air. There's nothing quite like sipping hot cocoa on a cool autumn morning, breathing in the season's scent as it quietly restores the soul. And, of course, it's the perfect time to dive into decorating for Halloween! Fall is, without a doubt, my favorite season. Whether I’m hand-sewing costumes for the kids, attending horror conventions, or carving pumpkins, this time of year ignites my creativity like no other.

I often find myself wrapped in a cozy blanket, embarking on a scary movie marathon, or losing myself in the pages of a Stephen King novel. Some days, I dive into classic tales like Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart or share stories from the spine-tingling Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark with my youngest before bedtime. With every story, every creepy scene, I feel a spark of inspiration – a call to create something new.

Fall brings a certain atmosphere. There's a sense of mystery, a gentle reminder that while parts of the Earth are at its end, it will be reborn with spring. It’s a season you can feel deep in your bones, one that invites reflection, creativity, and a touch of the spooky.

Every writer has a season or place that fuels their imagination. For me, it’s always fall. And when it comes to places, South Carolina’s Upstate provides some of the most breathtaking autumn landscapes. My children and I love hiking this time of year, and I highly recommend a visit to Campbell’s Covered Bridge, Table Rock State Park, or Bald Rock. These are some of the best spots to take in the natural beauty of the season – especially when fall is in full bloom. I find the landscapes within these places the best to enjoy and let them ignite something within.

So, whether you're here to hike, explore, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, fall in Upstate SC is truly spectacular when finding inspiration to write.

Campbell's Covered Bridge in Greenville County, SC