What happened in the past when Nipon disobeyed her grandmother?
- She was tricked by the Winter King and brought winter to the land.
- She discovered a hidden grove filled with topaz stones.
- She met a handsome prince who whisked her away to his kingdom.
- She learned the importance of listening to her elders.
What’s your favorite memory of autumn from childhood?
- Jumping into piles of crisp, colorful leaves.
- Carving pumpkins and roasting the seeds.
- Going apple picking with my family.
- Staying inside on a rainy day and reading a good book.
What comes to mind when you think of Thanksgiving from The Topaz Story Book?
- The importance of gratitude and sharing.
- The delicious smells of a Thanksgiving feast.
- The funny story of Dan’l Webster and the stubborn turkey.
- The warmth and joy of family gatherings.
How do you feel about the arrival of autumn after reading these stories?
- Excited for the changing leaves and cozy atmosphere.
- A little sad to see summer go, but ready for a change of pace.
- Indifferent. It’s just another season.
- Inspired by the beauty and magic of nature.
If you could choose any character from the book to befriend, who would it be and why?
- Nipon, because she seems adventurous and fun-loving.
- Lady Janet, because she’s brave and determined.
- The Little Baker, because he’s kind and generous.
- Patroclus, because he’s strong and protective.
You are at a party and someone starts talking about their favorite Halloween tradition. What do you do?
- Jump into the conversation and share my own Halloween memories and favorite stories from the book.
- Listen politely but feel a little shy about sharing my own experiences.
- Steer the conversation towards a different topic, like Thanksgiving or autumn recipes.
- Excuse myself to get a refill of pumpkin spice latte.
What keeps you up at night about the changing seasons?
- Nothing, I embrace the natural cycle of life.
- The thought of winter approaching and the days getting shorter.
- Worrying about whether I’ll get to do all my favorite autumn activities before it’s too late.
- I sleep soundly, dreaming of colorful leaves and cozy nights by the fire.
What makes you most frustrated about the commercialization of holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving?
- It often overshadows the true meaning and spirit of these celebrations.
- It puts pressure on people to spend money they may not have.
- It creates a lot of waste and unnecessary consumption.
- It makes me appreciate the simple, heartfelt stories in The Topaz Story Book even more.
You have an entire autumn afternoon to yourself. What do you do?
- Take a walk in the woods and enjoy the crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage.
- Curl up with a cup of tea and reread my favorite story from The Topaz Story Book.
- Bake a delicious pie with apples or pumpkins, just like the ones mentioned in the stories.
- Invite friends over for a cozy dinner party and share stories and laughter.
What’s your favorite memory related to the stories and themes of The Topaz Story Book?
- A specific time when I felt a strong connection to nature during the fall.
- A memorable Halloween celebration filled with costumes, treats, and spooky fun.
- A heartwarming Thanksgiving gathering with loved ones.
- Reading these stories as a child and feeling a sense of wonder and enchantment.
What is your absolute favorite autumn activity, inspired by the book?
- Collecting colorful leaves and pressing them to preserve their beauty.
- Carving pumpkins with intricate designs inspired by the stories.
- Baking homemade bread and sharing it with neighbors, just like the Little Baker.
- Writing my own autumn-themed stories and poems.
How would your friends and family describe your appreciation for nature during the fall season?
- They’d say I’m a true “autumn enthusiast” who embraces every aspect of the season.
- They might tease me about my love for pumpkin spice everything, but they secretly enjoy it too.
- They wouldn’t describe it at all because I tend to keep my love for nature to myself.
- They appreciate that I remind them to slow down and appreciate the beauty around them.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you see the first colorful leaf fall from a tree?
- A sense of peace and acceptance that change is a natural part of life.
- Excitement for all the cozy autumn activities to come.
- A twinge of sadness that summer is ending.
- A renewed appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
What affects you most: the beauty of autumn leaves, the thrill of Halloween, or the gratitude of Thanksgiving?
- The beauty of autumn leaves, because it reminds me of the ephemeral nature of life.
- The thrill of Halloween, because it allows me to tap into my mischievous side.
- The gratitude of Thanksgiving, because it’s a time for reflection and appreciation.
- I’m equally affected by all of them, as they each hold a special place in my heart.
What’s your idea of the perfect Thanksgiving celebration, inspired by The Topaz Story Book?
- A gathering focused on gratitude, sharing, and simple pleasures.
- A grand feast with all the traditional dishes and more.
- A cozy evening spent reading stories and sharing laughter with loved ones.
- A chance to connect with nature and appreciate the bounty of the harvest.
What is your strongest autumn-related memory?
- The smell of wood smoke on a crisp autumn evening.
- The crunch of leaves under my feet on a nature walk.
- The taste of my grandmother’s homemade apple pie.
- The feeling of cozy contentment while curled up with a good book on a rainy day.
What place do you most want to explore during the autumn season?
- A quaint New England town with covered bridges and vibrant foliage.
- A secluded cabin in the woods, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
- A bustling city park, alive with the energy of fall festivals and celebrations.
- My own backyard, where I can find peace and inspiration in the changing seasons.
What’s your favorite story in the book, and why?
- “Nipon and the King of the Northland” because it’s a magical tale about the changing seasons.
- “The Pumpkin Giant” because it’s a thrilling adventure with a heartwarming ending.
- “The Elfin Knight” because it’s a romantic and suspenseful story about true love.
- “The Queer Little Baker Man” because it’s a heartwarming tale about the importance of sharing.
What causes are you most passionate about during the fall season?
- Supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture.
- Protecting wildlife habitats as they prepare for winter.
- Promoting literacy by donating books to children in need.
- Spreading kindness and generosity, especially to those less fortunate.
Tell us a little about your favorite autumn tradition.
- Going apple picking with my family and turning the apples into delicious treats.
- Hosting a Halloween costume party with spooky decorations and festive food.
- Volunteering at a local food bank to help provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need.
- Taking long walks in nature and appreciating the beauty of the changing leaves.
If you could choose any autumn-inspired superpower, what would it be and why?
- The ability to control the weather, so I could make autumn last longer.
- The power to transform into any forest animal, so I could experience autumn from their perspective.
- The gift of storytelling, so I could share enchanting tales about the season with others.
- The ability to bake the most delicious apple pie in the world, to share with everyone I love.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone says “autumn”?
- The vibrant colors of changing leaves.
- The crisp, cool air.
- The smell of pumpkin spice and cinnamon.
- A sense of cozy contentment.
What is most likely to make you feel down about the arrival of colder weather?
- The shorter days and lack of sunshine.
- Having to say goodbye to summer activities like swimming and sunbathing.
- The thought of holiday stress and family obligations.
- Nothing! I’m always excited for a change of seasons.
In a perfect world, what would your autumn weekends look like?
- Filled with scenic hikes, cozy bonfires, and delicious autumnal treats.
- Spent exploring charming towns, visiting pumpkin patches, and attending fall festivals.
- Dedicated to relaxing at home, reading books, and enjoying the company of loved ones.
- A balance of all of the above, embracing the magic and beauty of the season.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect autumn day be like?
- A crisp, sunny day with a gentle breeze, perfect for a walk in the woods.
- A cozy, rainy day, ideal for curling up with a good book and a cup of tea.
- A festive day filled with Halloween celebrations, spooky costumes, and delicious treats.
- A heartwarming day spent with loved ones, sharing a Thanksgiving feast and expressing gratitude.
How often do you find yourself reminiscing about autumns past?
- Often, I cherish memories of past autumns and look forward to creating new ones.
- Occasionally, when I see something that sparks a happy memory.
- Rarely, I prefer to live in the present moment.
- I haven’t experienced enough autumns yet to reminisce!
Which member of the autumnal court are you: the whimsical Harvest King, the mystical Forest Queen, or the mischievous Pumpkin Prince?
- The whimsical Harvest King, because I appreciate the abundance and beauty of the season.
- The mystical Forest Queen, because I feel a deep connection to nature’s magic.
- The mischievous Pumpkin Prince, because I enjoy a bit of fun and mischief.
- None of the above, I’m forging my own path through the autumnal realm.
Someone asks, “How’s fall treating you?” What’s the actual answer, not just “good”?
- It’s treating me wonderfully! I’m soaking up every bit of autumn magic I can.
- It’s been a bit hectic, but I’m trying to slow down and appreciate the simple things.
- I’m ready for the cozy vibes and festive celebrations.
- Honestly, I’m just trying to survive until the first snowfall.
What’s your go-to autumn comfort food?
- A warm slice of apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- A hearty bowl of butternut squash soup with crusty bread.
- A mug of hot apple cider with a cinnamon stick.
- A plate of roasted vegetables with herbs and spices.
What aspect of autumn makes you the most happy?
- The slower pace of life and the chance to reconnect with nature.
- The opportunity to wear cozy sweaters and boots.
- The abundance of delicious seasonal food and drinks.
- The festive atmosphere and the chance to celebrate with loved ones.
What is most likely to make you feel stressed about the fall season?
- The pressure to make the most of every moment before winter arrives.
- The shorter days and the feeling that there’s not enough time for everything.
- The expectation to participate in every fall-themed activity and tradition.
- I don’t get stressed about fall! It’s my favorite time of year.
You find yourself suddenly transported into the world of “The Topaz Story Book.” How prepared are you for an adventure?
- Bring it on! I’m ready to face any challenge with courage and curiosity.
- I’m a little nervous, but I’m sure I’ll figure things out as I go.
- I’d rather stick to the familiar world of my book.
- I’ll pack my bags immediately! Adventure awaits!
What do you think you need to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of autumn?
- A crisp autumn breeze, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the scent of woodsmoke in the air.
- A cozy sweater, a warm beverage, and a good book to curl up with.
- A festive gathering with loved ones, filled with laughter, good food, and autumn decorations.
- A quiet moment to myself in nature, to reflect on the beauty and change of the season.
How often do you actively seek out opportunities to connect with nature, especially during the fall?
- As often as possible! Nature is my happy place, especially in the fall.
- Whenever I need a mental reset or a dose of inspiration.
- Occasionally, when the weather is nice and I have some free time.
- Rarely, I prefer the comforts of indoor life.
How confident are you in your ability to identify different types of trees by their leaves?
- Very confident, I’m a bit of a leaf expert!
- I know a few common ones, but I’m always learning more.
- I can tell the difference between an oak and a maple, that’s about it.
- I rely on plant identification apps for that!
How do you handle the transition from the carefree days of summer to the busier schedule of fall?
- I embrace the change of pace and find joy in the routines of autumn.
- It usually takes me a while to adjust, but I eventually find my rhythm.
- I struggle with it every year and often feel overwhelmed.
- I don’t really experience a shift, my schedule stays relatively consistent.
Do you have a favorite autumn-themed recipe that you look forward to making every year?
- Yes, my family and friends rave about my [insert your favorite autumn recipe here].
- I have a few go-to recipes, but I’m always on the lookout for new ones to try.
- I’m not much of a cook, but I appreciate a good autumnal treat.
- I prefer to leave the cooking to the experts and enjoy the fruits (or should I say, pumpkins) of their labor.
How well do you stick to your convictions when it comes to enjoying autumn your own way?
- Very well, I don’t let anyone dictate how I should experience the season.
- I try to, but sometimes I get caught up in the expectations of others.
- I’m easily swayed by what’s trendy or popular.
- I don’t really have strong opinions about it, I just go with the flow.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your autumn wardrobe?
- My closet is overflowing with cozy sweaters, stylish boots, and scarves in every shade of autumn.
- I have a few key pieces that I love to wear throughout the fall.
- I tend to stick with my summer clothes for as long as possible.
- I don’t really change my wardrobe much from season to season.
To what degree do you experience the “Sunday Scaries” on a Sunday evening in the fall?
- Not at all, I savor every moment of the weekend and feel refreshed for the week ahead.
- A little bit, I sometimes feel a twinge of anxiety about the workweek starting.
- Moderately, I often find myself dreading Monday mornings.
- Severely, Sunday evenings are the worst part of my week.
Which of these best describes your current approach to autumn: Embracing the Cozy, Chasing the Adventure, or Celebrating the Harvest?
- Embracing the Cozy – I’m all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere at home.
- Chasing the Adventure – I want to make the most of the beautiful weather and explore new places.
- Celebrating the Harvest – I love cooking with seasonal ingredients and gathering with loved ones.
What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to savoring the autumn season?
- Finding the time to fit in all the activities and traditions I love.
- Staying present and appreciating each moment instead of wishing it wouldn’t end.
- Letting go of the need to make everything “perfect” and just enjoying the simple things.
- I don’t really have any challenges, autumn is pure joy!
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when an unexpected cold front disrupts your autumn plans?
- Time to break out the cozy blankets and warm drinks!
- Oh well, I’ll just have to reschedule my outdoor activities.
- This is why I can’t stand autumn weather, it’s so unpredictable.
- Maybe this means winter is coming early, and I can finally wear my new coat.
How do you handle the pressure to make the most of the short-lived autumn season?
- I create a bucket list of activities and prioritize the ones that bring me the most joy.
- I try not to overschedule myself and allow for spontaneity.
- I often feel overwhelmed and end up doing nothing at all.
- I don’t feel pressured, I know there’s always next year!
How would you describe your relationship with the autumn season?
- A passionate love affair, we were meant to be together!
- A comfortable companionship, we enjoy each other’s company.
- A casual acquaintance, we cross paths every year.
- It’s complicated.
Are you stuck in an “end-of-summer” mindset, or have you fully embraced the beauty and wonder of autumn?
- I’m fully present in autumn and excited for all the season has to offer.
- I’m still holding onto summer a little bit, but I’m starting to transition.
- I’m in denial that summer is over!
- I live for fall, bring on the pumpkin spice and everything nice.
What would you say are your top struggles right now when it comes to appreciating the simple pleasures of autumn?
- Disconnecting from technology and being present in the moment.
- Quieting my inner critic and letting go of the need for things to be perfect.
- Finding the time and energy to engage in activities that bring me joy.
- I don’t have any struggles, I’m a master of appreciating the little things.
What is your autumn self-care goal?
- To prioritize rest and relaxation as the days get shorter.
- To engage in activities that nourish my mind, body, and spirit.
- To connect with loved ones and create meaningful memories.
- To embrace the change of season with grace and gratitude.
What do you think is missing in your quest to create the perfect autumn experience for yourself?
- Nothing! I’m living my best autumn life.
- More time to dedicate to my favorite activities and traditions.
- A greater sense of peace and contentment, instead of always chasing the next thing.
- A travel companion to share the beauty of autumn with.
What is your current level of expertise in all things autumn, from leaf identification to pumpkin carving?
- Expert level! I’m basically a walking autumn encyclopedia.
- I’m fairly knowledgeable, but always eager to learn more.
- I know the basics, enough to get by.
- I’m a complete novice, but I’m willing to learn.
The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and you stumble upon a charming pumpkin patch. How do you respond?
- I squeal with delight and immediately start picking out the perfect pumpkins for carving.
- I take a deep breath of fresh air and soak in the beauty of the scene.
- I snap a few photos for Instagram and then head to the cider donut stand.
- I keep walking, I’ve seen enough pumpkin patches in my lifetime.
What word describes the feeling you experience most in autumn: Nostalgic, Content, Inspired, or Excited?
- Nostalgic – The season evokes memories of cozy autumns past.
- Content – I feel at peace with the changing seasons and the rhythm of nature.
- Inspired – The beauty of autumn sparks my creativity and imagination.
- Excited – I can’t wait for all the festivities and celebrations to come!
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis this fall?
- Not having enough time to enjoy all the things I love about the season.
- The impact of shorter days on my mood and energy levels.
- The pressure to create the “perfect” autumn experience for myself and others.
- I don’t worry about things I can’t control, I just focus on enjoying the moment.
How relaxed and grounded do you feel in your day-to-day life during the fall season?
- Extremely relaxed and grounded, autumn is my time to thrive.
- Fairly relaxed, but there’s always room for improvement.
- A little on edge, the transition to fall can be challenging.
- Not relaxed at all, I’m counting down the days until winter break!
How well do you feel you balance embracing the cozy aspects of autumn with staying active and engaged in life?
- I’ve found a perfect balance, I nourish both my introverted and extroverted sides.
- I lean more towards cozy, sometimes to the point of hibernation.
- I tend to stay busy and often forget to slow down and relax.
- I’m still working on finding that balance.
How connected do you feel to the cycles of nature, particularly the transition from summer to fall?
- Deeply connected, I see myself as part of the natural world and its rhythms.
- Somewhat connected, I appreciate nature’s beauty, but I don’t always feel in tune with it.
- Not very connected, I live in a city and often feel detached from the natural world.
- I’m working on strengthening my connection to nature.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you during the autumn season?
- People who complain about pumpkin spice everything.
- Unseasonably warm weather that disrupts the fall foliage.
- Crowds at apple orchards and pumpkin patches.
- Nothing! Autumn is my happy place.
What is the trickiest part about transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall?
- Finding the motivation to put away my summer clothes and dig out my fall attire.
- Deciding what to wear on days when the weather is unpredictable.
- Resisting the urge to buy a whole new autumn wardrobe every year.
- I don’t really have a trick to it, it just happens naturally.
Do you find yourself daydreaming about cozy nights by the fire or frantically trying to cram in every fall activity before the first snowfall?
- I’m a cozy night by the fire kind of person, embracing the slower pace of autumn.
- I try to find a balance between relaxation and adventure.
- I’m definitely a “go, go, go” type when it comes to fall activities.
- I haven’t given it much thought.
Do you have a support system in place for when those end-of-summer blues hit, such as a cozy blanket fort, a collection of your favorite autumn-themed movies, or a go-to group chat for sharing fall-themed memes and recipes?
- Absolutely! I’m fully prepared to combat any seasonal sadness.
- I have a few things that help me transition, but I could always use more support.
- I usually just ride it out and wait for my energy to return.
- I don’t typically experience the “end-of-summer blues.”
How do you determine your autumn bucket list each year?
- I brainstorm a list of activities that bring me joy and align with my values.
- I consult social media and lifestyle blogs for inspiration.
- I ask friends and family for their recommendations.
- I don’t really have a bucket list, I just see what each day brings.