As beautiful and warm as this summer has been, I will not lie that last week was the first time since last year that I smelled "fall" in the air. And of course, I became slightly giddy inside. I really can't wait for the changing of the leaves, the activities and, of course, the fall tastes! Call me "basic" if you wish, but I'm very much looking forward to this fall season. Here are 8 reasons why!

1. Bonfire Nights

Bonfires are great in the summer, but a crisp fall night always carries the perfect temperature and atmosphere for an ideal bonfire. The weather gives you a chance to wear some sweatpants and sweatshirts, or just cuddle up under a blanket to enjoy the cool air and smell of the fire.

2. Cider Slushies

Honestly, cider in general is just great. Any time you're in need of a nice drink, it's always refreshing and can also be paired with several liquors to give you an awesome mixed drink. Crown apple anyone?

3. Football Season

OK, so the Bills have the potential to be slightly disappointing. I know some people think girls can't enjoy football, but there's something about the atmosphere in the area before a football game begins. Whether you're tailgating, going inside the game or watching it from home, there's hope and expectation. Of course, there's always good food, too.

4. Comfortable Sweaters

Another "basic" comment will be made with this one. However, any girl on the face of the planet knows how comfortable an over-sized, soft, warm sweater can be. Summer outfits are great, but you can't beat the contentment.

5. Seasonal Drinks

I know I mentioned cider before, but let's be clear - pumpkin flavored everything. In terms of alcoholic drinks, fall brings some of the best tasting craft beer you'll have all year. You can't beat the pumpkin-tasting shandy. With the greatest beers around, you'll also find the pumpkin spice shots in every coffee shop around. How can you not order that when it hits the menu?

6. Halloween

Halloween will be just around the corner, and it honestly is my favorite holiday of the year. Shout out to all of those people who have been planning their costumes for months now, and are probably hand-making them. Some costumes can truly blow your mind.

7. Seasonal Date Nights

For all my people with significant others out there! Fall is the best time to have so many different and fun date nights. There's pumpkin carving, corn mazes, haunted houses, hay rides, hikes through beautiful places with changing leaves-- and all worth doing no matter who you are! It's the start of great cuddle weather, too (wink wink).

8. The Beauty

Last but not least, what you see outside as the leaves change and the air gets cooler is truly astounding. Where ever you go, you're bound to see some color, and sometimes it's enough to make you stop and lose your breath.