Autumnal

I traditionally ended the notes I sent in August with "Enjoy the fleeting days of summer." However, as the weeks of hot, dry weather continued here, I found myself adjusting to the new temperament of the seasons in the mid-Atlantic. No longer am I wishing that summer linger a bit longer. Rather, I am longing for the cooler days of  autumn which I am told is only second to spring in Virginia.

September is foreshadowing the upcoming season with a nip in the air one morning and a blustery wind another. The harvest moon was spectacular the other night as seen in a video from The Washington Post. And, as the days noticeably shorten, the autumnal equinox arrives this week.

This morning it rained steady and soaked the parched landscape. The mums bowed their heads, the berries dripped with moisture, and the leaves held onto each drop of water for as long as possible. I know the heat will return but not as intensely. Pumpkins are beginning to dot the landscape as I transition my wardrobe and dress the house in dabs of orange and yellow, too.

I would like to nap like the cat but am instead nesting, deeply appreciative of the weather and the quiet which allows thoughts to roam and creative juices to flow. I am prepping and planning for the busy months ahead. So much is new and yet one can rely on some things nonetheless. So, I close instead with "Enjoy the fullness of transitioning days this September, dear friends."

September

Linda Pastan

it rained in my sleep

and in the morning the fields were wet

I dreamed of artillery

of the thunder of horses

in the morning the fields were strewn
with twigs and leaves

as if after a battle
or a sudden journey

I went to sleep in the summer
I dreamed of rain

in the morning the fields were wet
and it was autumn