Aug 17 2008
How Close is the Changing of the Seasons?
Even though fall doesn’t officially begin until September 22, 2008, one can’t help but notice the changes going on around town. As we harvest our gardens and enjoy the spoils of our labor, we notice our plants growing weaker and wearier from the energy it took to redden the tomatoes, or finish the brilliant color of the corn. We know soon we’ll be laying them to rest, and preparing for another year gone.
The apples and pears are nearing completion, exquisitely showing off their reds, yellows, and greens. Grapes are getting fat on the vine, deepening in color and readiness. Sunflowers are beginning to droop, full of seed. Tomatoes are juicy and sweet.
Glancing around during an evening stroll, one notices the darkness creeping in a little earlier every night. It’s darker every morning when you start your car for work. It’s chilly at night, and the windows fog up in the morning. 
*Picture taken in Gresham, Oregon on the afternoon of 8/17/08
No matter what you do, fall is gripping the tail end of summer like a lion taking down a gazelle. We pretend it’s not happening, not yet, but then we notice something in the trees. Can it be? Yes, it is. They are changing color. Enjoy the end of the summer, because before we know it, the rain will come again.
