Wednesday, October 17, 2012

feeling fall



My mother remarked this morning that the seasons in Maine change quickly, and arrive promptly. Indeed, fall is here. The leaves are just past peak here in York, and we have a couple of frosts behind us already. I can see my breath in the air when I leave for work in the morning, and I've had to pull out my wool coat and scarves.

I have found several bird's nests in the driveway, blown from the huge old balsam tree by autumn winds. Their occupants have flown the coop, their babies are grown. The animals are busy gathering this year's bumper crop of acorns. Arborists call it a "mast year" (a scientific phenomenon that occurs every 2 to 7 years) . . . but a neighbor told me recently that a lot of acorns means it will be a hard winter. Who knows, perhaps it's just an old wives' tale, but I've told the gentleman he had better get that pile of wood split for the fireplace.

7 comments:

ArchitectDesign™ said...

What is this new job? What are you up to, Missy? We need to catch up!!

home before dark said...

Love the squirrels defining time and importance. Here in Kansas our severe heat and drought has made this gardening season a horrible thing to endure. I am looking forward to cold vs 110 and remember not so long ago I was complaining about snow coming in November and not thawing until April. Not too many "mast years" here on the prairie. Can't wait to hear about your winter's garden dreams.

mamma in columbus said...

it is so good to see you back here. enjoying every word and picture!

Janet said...

hbd ~ you know I love the winter! We'll see if this "mast year" theory pans out. So, bundle up and lay in a good stack of books. And I'll dream about the garden.

Greer ~ it's good to be back. Catch up soon???? xo

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