autumn

About a month ago that we had our first Cool Snap. (I am hesitant to call it a cold snap out of respect to folks that actually get cold weather. I need a blanket—big whoop). That was followed by some delicious weather; a mixed bag of hot, warm and cool days. Recently, Fall has fallen. The nights are cool and crisp, the sun sets early and it is not unusual to see a little mist in the morning. Heck, it even rained this morning! 

The fact another summer had slipped past was weighing on me when the joys of this season washed over me. Candles! Soft lighting, a fire in the fireplace. That chill in the air. Thoughts of the holidays come unbidden. True, I miss a lot of what summer brings to the garden, but the daffodils have been busy pushing themselves up. I often feel sorry for them, having been planted in Southern California. Each year, it seems, they break through the soil, hoping for a long bloom only to be scorched in a day or two—we always seem to get warm days just as the open. Maybe the sun hates the daffodils?

Candles are such a delight. When visitors drop by, finding me alone and surrounded by candle glow, they ask if I am expecting anyone. No, I reply, and smile. These candles burn for me. It’s nice when people share, though.

bittersweet

My youngest is on his way to Utah for seasonal work at a ski resort. He visited for several weeks between his gigs in Alaska and Utah. Over breakfast this morning, we talked about timing. He’s been anxious to get back to work, which is quite the change for him. He’s maturing. I told him that time off is like a half gallon of ice cream—a little bit is a real pleasure, but too much at a time is a problem. My guess is that after a long summer session in Alaska, a couple of weeks off are plenty. Of course, this varies from person to person, but I have definite opinions about vacations. It’s good that he felt it was too long in more than just his wallet.

For me, I am sad to see him go. I missed him while he was away. It was nice having him visit. But, like time off, having a houseguest can go on a little long. That, of course, varies from houseguest to houseguest.

Returning from LAX, I am strangely upbeat. The boy is off for another adventure and he’ll mature. It will be fun to find out how much when he comes back. 

For me, personally, I am very pleased to have my house back. I cheerfully set to some chores and it was a genuine delight to clean the kitchen and restock the fridge. My plants are being watered and laundry is spinning. As much as it was nice to have Kevin around, it’s invigorating to have my privacy back. This is my space.