Now that fall is coming on and the kids are back in school, I started thinking about some activities that would be fun before it gets too cold and we’re trapped inside all winter…

1. Put together a picnic and head to the zoo. You can either make your own meal or get an order to go from your fave restaurant. Pick a table at the zoo and enjoy the environment as well as each others’ company.

2. Take some cookies or other treats to a retirement home and ask the residents to share their favorite memories of fall or of when they were in school. That way you can brighten someone else’s day, too.

3. For another outdoorsy idea, pack your favorite treats and head to the park or somewhere with a great view to watch the sunset. Or, if you’re an early riser, pack breakfast stuff like coffee or hot chocolate and homemade muffins and watch the sun rise together.

4. Find a local corn maze. Some of them get really elaborate. Check your local mailers or online for coupons.

5. Come up with a treasure hunt for your kids or your significant other. Make eight or ten cards with instructions and have a treat, dinner, or something fun at the end. You can do a small one in your house or apartment or you can spread it out and leave cards at spots around your neighborhood and enjoy the fall weather at the same time.