Falling Fast

One day this week, I was driving down the street and noticed a few leaves changing color. Two days later, BAM, the leaves had burst into yellows and oranges and reds.

Must be autumn in Cleveland.

Like most seasons, the best part is here and gone so quickly, you can miss it if you blink. While that white stuff that shall-not-be-named seems to linger on and on.

I would love to enjoy this time of year, if only it would stick around long enough. If we're lucky, we'll have a few more days of warmish weather and some sunshine before all the leaves turn brown and it's time to rake. It feels like the statute of limitations is running out on hot apple cider and colorful drives through the parkway. Although I won't be able to experience the smell of burning leaves, a childhood favorite, since the practice has been outlawed. (Yes, I know, it's not good for the environment, but there was something about that aroma.)

So, before I have to go extract my rake from among the seldom-used tools in the basement, I think I'll make a pledge to take a stroll through the park or grab an apple or raise a glass of pumpkin ale and make a toast to this oh-so-short-lived season.

But, with my sense of direction, I think it's best if I stay out of the hay maze!