*In these open letters, I'm going to address questions/thoughts that I have about certain topics or organizations. These are all my opinions.*

On Autumn

First off, what's the deal with pumpkin spice? Seriously... Why do people like it so much? What's the appeal? Trust me, I've had my fair share of pumpkin spice frappucinos, and I really don't think they're anything to write home about. My personal theory is the seasonal exclusivity. Pumpkin spice only comes around once a year, and if you don't like it, it feels like you're violating your obligation to like fall (which I think exists).

Speaking of fall, why are there two names for this season? Autumn and fall are the exact same season, why have multiple names? To me, this only creates extra unnecessary confusion...

Why are pumpkins associated with fall? In the tropics and subtropics, pumpkins grow year-round. They're not really that special or rare...is it just because they're orange? Just because something's orange doesn't mean it's associated with fall... However, pumpkin pie is only available in stores during the fall season, so that might be why, although that doesn't seem like justification for pumpkins to automatically become the fall fruit mascot. Again, I think this goes back to the pumpkin spice thing. Even though they're available all the time in other places, they're only available in the U.S. during fall. Even so, what makes them stand out from other fruits and vegetables?

I'm pretty sure everyone agrees with this statement: watching the leaves turn color is one of the most beautiful things in the world. I absolutely love waking up in the morning, having a cup of hot cocoa, and just looking at the leaves in my backyard. Unfortunately, the downside to that is that there are so many leaves to clean up once they fall. And (warning, unpopular opinion) I really hate jumping in leaf piles. They're messy, dirty, and just anti-climactic. You expect this great big splash once you jump in, like a pool, but you only kind of haphazardly slide in.

And finally: Why are UGG boots still the staple shoe for most people during fall and winter? Those things are expensive and personally I find them hideous. They don't help slim your legs at all, in fact they make your legs look weirdly large. They have no distinctive shape and have a striking similarity to the boots that dancers wear to keep their feet warm (which aren't supposed to be worn outside, mind you). UGG boots are really nothing special; they're just your average fluffy boot. UGG? More like UGH.