I always get somewhat reminiscent in the Fall.

The change of the seasons brings back a lot of difficult memories, and I usually end up feeling a bit down. Maybe it’s SAD?

In the last few couple of years, however, I’ve learned to embrace these feelings instead of letting them upset me (I talked about this last year on the blog.)

So, last night I reminisced. I enjoyed some great memories and great food, no sadness allowed.

I had one of my favorite sandwiches from my college days with one of my dear friends whom I met in college.

More specifically, I had a delicious chicken cheesesteak from Texadelphia. It was spicy, cheesey, chewey and just plain marvelous. On the side were some standard chips and salsa and it was all washed down with a cold Miller Lite.

I loved Texadelphia in college. I only went there a handful of times, but those times were always memorable. Maybe because they didn’t have their liquor license and I could actually remember it… but I digress.

They recently opened a new store in Bricktown/downtown, where I lived for a year after graduating.

The new location has an updated menu and a pretty cool interior, perfect for a quick bite before a Thunder game.

Speaking of the Thunder, last night they opened the season against the Bulls and won! Sweet. OKC is making a name for itself I tell ya.

Since Taylor and I didn’t have tickets to the game, we wandered around for a bit to find a dessert option.

Maybe it was the brisk Fall day or the return to my old stomping grounds, but I was feeling bold and loaded up my froyo cup. I mean, I really didn’t hold back.

My cup had:

• Chocolate froyo
• Peanut Butter froyo
• Cupcake froyo
• Cheesecake froyo
• Chocolate chips
• kiwi (that was ill-fitting in retrospect)
• brownie chunks
• Heath Crumbles
• Butterfinger flakes
• 2 peanut butter cups

It. Was. Legit.

The guy at the register so enjoyed my froyo enthusiasm that he gave me a discount! Thanks Peach Wave guy! I couldn’t finish it all, but I made a valiant effort.

P.S. – Fat free chocolate froyo is not delicious. Steer clear.

Taylor and I chatted some more, and then wandered back to our cars.

As I headed home I got to thinking about how things change.

My favorite cheesesteak place got a makeover and is now a sophisticated “social grill”.

My old neighborhood keeps growing and improving.

My friendships keep strengthening and changing.

The weather air is colder and the leaves are transforming.

Most of all, I’ve changed.

I’m kinder to myself.

I don’t feel the need to bash myself for my past mistakes. Instead I rejoice in the good choices I’m making now.

I don’t allow myself to feel fat and ugly. Instead I eat a cheesey sandwich and a ginormous cup of sugary sweetness with a smile on my face.

I walk outside, feel the cool air brush against my arms, and revel in the hope of new possibilities instead of the dread of a cold, lonely winter.

Times change. Places change. People change.

Bring it on, Fall.

Q’s:

Do you like cheesesteakes? I’ve never had a true Philly cheesesteak, but the chicken ones from Texadelphia are pretty damn good.

How have you changed in the past year?