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.