I have always loved, even worshipped, hot summer days. Days so hot that relief is found only at the beach or by the pool. Days when getting dressed involved nothing more than a bathing suit and sandals. And I dreaded the fall. Fall represented the end of those glorious, fun-in-the-sun days.

But with MS, those hot days mean a body that feels like it has been wrung out and tossed to the curb, a leg that barely functions, and a mood that is very difficult to brighten.

So I am trying to learn to love the fall. When I can once again awaken with a smile on my face, a leg that does not drag, and an attitude filled with excitement about the new day and all that it has to offer. I am learning to love the cool air in my lungs, to appreciate the need for a jacket, to take the time to smell the mums and daisies, and to enjoy the ability to do a little raking and playing in the leaves.

I doubt I will ever enjoy the switch from light, short, and sleeveless clothing, to those layers and sleeves, but slowly and surely, fall is becoming my favorite season.