Today is August 24th, 2023 and still Summer. The air and temperature feels cooler. The leaves on the maple trees are already changing red with some yellow mixed in with the fallen leaves on the ground. Apples are filling the trees and dropping. My Dad and I have spotted different crab, yellow and other red apples on our drives to his appointments and rides to get out of the house and talk and share stories.

The animals are preparing for an early Autumn too. The young does and their fawns from this year are moving around in the woods. I drive slowly down bumpy, dirt roads to hike alone or with my dog. Lately, the deer have not been spooked while I sit in my car and watch them pass gently and cautiously across the dirt road into the woods.

The bunnies have been around more in our backyard eating grass, clover and lettuce I drop for them under my raised beds. They are a good sign of hope and prosperity in life. It is more than financial wealth it is spiritual prosperity from God.

The birds are changing with the season of summer to Autumn. After lunch today, I spotted a male, yellow finch dead on the ground by the stepping stones near our bird feeders and bird bath. I questioned his death. Last week I heard and saw a small flock of geese honking and flying over our home–heading in the southern direction.

The hummingbirds are still around with the cooler temperatures to fuel up before they journey south. I almost composted my hanging flower plants because they are dying off and look terrible. However, some of their flowers are still hanging on and my Dad spotted the hummingbirds still coming around to suck the nectar out from them.

Most early mornings for me while some may call nights are when the sky and earth are still dark. I cautiously release part of my dog’s leash to look out for bunnies eating in the dim light. My dog having part beagle in him, usually smells the rabbits before I spot them. Then it is time to hold on tight so we both are not on the hunt or chase.

Autumn is my favorite season. Usually it is short like our Springs and Summers in Northern New York State. I do not mind our winters; however, six months of Winter is draining on our souls with the cold and especially the lack of sunlight.

Find your joy, happiness, peace, love and faith everyday in others and yourselves. Stay safe.