Autumn will shine brightly with all the beautiful colors, flowers, colored leaves, pumpkins and blue skies of the season. To be sure, nature encourages us to smile this time of year.

A smile should be shared. I have found that when I enter a store, smiling to the person holding the door puts a smile on that person’s face. You don’t know what is happening in some stranger’s life that could be lightened by your smile.

As children, we learn that a smile is a frown turned upside down. As adults, we often go about our day with a frown or a grumpy attitude. It only takes a second or two to bring something to mind that will create a lighter mindset. Maybe that’s thinking about a happier time in your life. Regardless, get rid of the grumpy mood with a smile.

It has been suggested that first thing in the morning we should smile at ourselves in the mirror. This simple act can put a positive spin on your day. I think I will give this a try some time. My days have not been so bright lately. By creating this simple habit, my days could be better.

While looking up quotes about smiles, I found hundreds of quotes, many by famous people, who point out the importance of smiles for both the giver and the receiver. Many of the quotes are accompanied with yellow smiley faces. Here’s a few:

For many of us, our smiles are generated by our children and grandchildren. Just their presence brightens our day. We have two great-grandchildren who live in Florida, so we very rarely see them. This summer, they were here for a short time. They sure brought smiles to our faces as we watched them play.

As you gather with friends and family this fall, take a moment to watch their faces and listen to the banter. What a happy place to be.

Soon the combines will start rumbling across the fields bringing in the harvest. It will be a busy time.

Please be safe as you work through your fall chores. Remember to watch for the little ones. It only takes a second for an accident to happen. Take breaks for meals and get plenty of rest.

And, while riding in the combine, think about something that makes you happy. That smile on your face will rub off on your family members and co-workers.