A Few Things: Different This October
Fall arrives before we see much evidence of it in the Southern California inland valleys. It is hot, the air conditioner is running and eating outside is nice, mosquitoes aside. This year feels different too.
Apparently Apples Have Their Own Schedule
We went apple picking in Julian, a family tradition. The first orchard was out of apples. So was the second. We finally found one open, only to learn its apples would not be ready until mid-October. My granddaughter had little interest in agricultural timing, so we picked flowers instead.
The Pumpkin Patch Without Reese
Last year, the week before Reese passed away, we went to the pumpkin patch. It was a favorite outing. She ran the corn maze until she had to stop in the straw to catch her breath. She loved the tractor ride, the air in her face and her ears looking like bat ears. By the ride home, she was exhausted from her adventures.
Fall was her season. At home, she paced in front of the oven waiting for pumpkin custard. We will return this year without her. I know it will not be the same. We will carry her with us and remember her there, in her place and in her season. We miss her so much.
Getting Dressed for My Changing Body
I have lost 60 pounds over the last two and a half years. Last fall, many of my clothes still fit. This year, very little does. Apparently my feet lost weight too, which I was not expecting. I am passing along what no longer works and enjoying getting dressed more.
Getting Stronger
In Julian, I looked at a steep hill and realized I did not think twice about whether I could make it. I just started walking. Pilates, walking, lunges and squats are making a difference. I want to keep getting stronger so I can enjoy my life as I get older.
Fall at Home
After seven years, our pomegranate tree finally produced more than one pomegranate. The living room is getting a complete overhaul, and Halloween is returning for the little princess ghoul in my life. There will be a decorated porch and a fall bar for little ghouls, goblins and big ones too.
October may arrive with air conditioning, sunshine and flowers blooming. This year feels different.