Fall is in the air in Carlsbad, California. Some folks who don't live here think we don't have seasons, and that it is sunny and warm all the time. Well, it is that way much of the time, but we certainly do have seasons, although they are less dramatic than many parts of the country. If you do not enjoy cold winters and hot, humid summers, Carlsbad offers the perfect alternative. 

And you can escape to the desert for heat, or head to the mountains for snow just a short distance away. You can even see the snow on the mountains from Carlsbad.

As a former New Englander, accustomed to 90+ degree temps and humidity in the summer, and 20s and below in the winter (which lasts 6 months it seems) with lots of snow, sleet and slush, moving to a place where temps typically range from the 50s to the high 70s year-round was a huge adjustment...in a good way for me. Greenery year-round is one of the side benefits. Be able to go barefoot much of the year is another. 

The signs of fall include the changes in the temperatures with fewer "hot" days, although we just had 2 days of 85 degrees, and cooler nights. The bird-of-paradise flowers are blooming again, with fall being their second season, and leaves are turning colors and starting to fall.

Yes, it's true - while we don't go through the dramatic foliage changes of the Midwest and New England, we do have trees here in Southern California that turn colors and end up on the ground.

The grasses start spouting interesting flowers as well, and berries begin to appear on certain bushes. Of course there are lots of pumpkins for sale, especially with Halloween approaching, along with plenty of Halloween events to attend.

And apple season has come to Julian, the Apple Capital, known for its famous pies and the Apple Festival (read William's post about Julian Apple Days Festival). There are more chrsyanthemums, in vivid colors, although they are more plentiful durng the year here than being fall flowers as they were in New England.

Folks start thinking about their fireplaces in the evenings, more and more heat lamps are in use for outdoor dining in the evenings at home and at restaurant. We start thinking about wearing socks, and long sleeved shirts, from time to time. And more and more wet suits make their appearance on area surfers.

And, WOW, it's even raining at the moment. Unusual at this time of year - we haven;t had rain seince March.

Carlsbad has its own brand of fall.

The light is different, the air changes, the days are shorter, and the holidays are fast approaching. Where did summer go?

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If I can provide more information about Encinitas, Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2008 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits