Autumn Loveliness

  Last night we had a rain storm and, after two days in the balmy sixty degree range, we are back to crisp cool weather.  As I was preparing lunch today I happened to glance out my kitchen window to the most beautiful sight.  Most of the trees on our block are old sycamores, beautiful in summer but really unremarkable in autumn.  Across the alley behind our home is large tree, species unknown, that is one of the last trees to change color this time of year.  So today when I glanced out my window and saw it had turned a beautiful golden yellow, it made me smile.  The rain from last night was still soaking everything and the bark of this tree looked almost black against the yellow leaves.  An absolutely beautiful sight.  And as I looked around our neighborhood I noticed that the Japanese Maples, we have two or three scattered here and there, had all turned a gorgeous red, some so bright that they almost appear to be lit from within.

  Autumn is truly one of my favorite seasons of the year.  From mid-July on I look forward to the onset of "sweater weather", falling leaves and the fresh air that comes after the hot and humid summers we have.  I love curling up on my couch with a blanket, a book and the dog while the hubby snores in his chair.  Walks with Ike are more fun since we both love the fallen leaves.  Cooking gets more interesting because comfort food always tastes better after being out in the crisp air.  There's expectation in the air.  Fall festivals come and go, we start thinking about the holidays and apple pies and there is the hint that the first snow of the year is just around the corner....but not quite here yet.  Winter is amazing for a few months, but we are ready when spring finally comes.  Autumn is a short season, like Spring, when the weather is invigorating and we all wish it would last just a little bit longer.  There is something magical about this transition season that is so refreshing.

  So here's to the Autumnal loveliness we are currently enjoying.  Take some time to walk or drive and take a look at the leaves.  Maybe take a few moments and jump in the pile of leaves you just raked, or just enjoy your favorite hot beverage outside in fresh air.  Slow down for a few minutes and enjoy the season.

Do you have a favorite season of the year?  Several?  Maybe all of them?  What is the most lovely thing about Autumn for you?