Autumn splendor

First Church of Monson, Autumn 2008

Driving on the highway this morning, I spotted a few yellowing trees along the road and it suddenly occurred to me that fall has begun its decent upon us. Needless to say, I couldn't be more thrilled about it.

Evening temperatures are hovering around the 55 degree mark, the ubiquitous sweatshirt has made its return to my closet, the scent of pumpkin-flavored coffee wafts through the office, and the colors of the leaves are starting to change. Soon, all of New England will be enveloped in the rich, vibrant hues associated with fall. I can't wait.

It's that magical time of year that brings with it hot apple cider and warm apple crisp; glowing jack-o-lanterns and pumpkin pie; sweet-smelling hay and horse-drawn carriage rides; beer and blazing bonfires; and some of the most beautiful sunsets Mother Nature has to offer. Everything about autumn is amazing.

For this all-too-brief period between summer and winter, I feel lulled into complacency and (actually!) at peace.