Turning leaves, crisp evenings, earlier sunsets emblazoned with oranges and reds, golden harvest moons, all help to bring a quiet calm to my heart. My camera is now a permanent accessory so as to not miss a single opportunity to catch the season’s splendor at its peak. My pantry is slowly filling up with all the ingredients needed to carry me through the approaching baking season. And my slow cooker is waiting in silent anticipation for almost daily family meal preparation!
Yes, I fall into the Midwestern trap of enjoying (and over-indulging) in all things fallish…pumpkin-scented candles, hand-made rustic vine wreaths, dried cornstalks and hay bales welcoming everyone into our home. But, I just can’t help it! October, more than any other month, wraps me up like an old sweater; providing warmth, comfort, familiarity and protection.
I’ve often said my favorite days are those that are dark and dreary, with skies full of heavy, foreboding clouds. And it’s the truth! The darkness and cloud cover act as a blanket, enveloping me in security and consolation. Images teasing my consciousness of hours spent cuddled under a cozy throw, wearing my favorite flannel shirt and fuzzy socks, reading a good book, a mug of hot tea clasped in my hands while I watch the vibrantly colored leaves gently dance on the breeze.
So, here’s to the majestic colors moving steadily southward from the top of the U. P. down through our mitten state. Here’s to quiet evenings spent in front of a crackling fire while pumpkin bread bakes in the oven. And here’s to the calm before the storm of another predicted “brutal” Michigan winter:)
Welcome October…please sit and stay awhile…