In 6 ½ weeks the Autumnal Equinox arrives - September 22nd. I'm so looking forward to fall this year. It's been a chaotic and difficult few months since the pandemic began, hasn't it? On top of that, Connecticut just got creamed with Tropical Storm Isaias that left more than 720K Connecticut homes and businesses in the dark. Fortunately for me this time, I did not lose power. For that I am forever grateful and thank the weather Gods for bypassing my “block”. (The thought of going through the crazy October 2011 snow storm scenario again that left me in the dark for 12 days with no heat, hot water or electricity was an over the top, insane experience I will never forget). I feel for all the New Englanders still without power from Isaias with a six day heat wave beginning tomorrow!
Alas, I am hopeful fall will bring some positivity back into our lives. Just thinking of cool nights (which has already begun) and bright sunshiny days in the 70's has my heart skipping a beat! I'm looking forward to hearing the geese honking over head, that intoxicating aroma of the earth in the early mornings and late evenings, pumpkins and gourds and cornstalks and mums, sweatshirts and jeans and my LLB boots. And those leaves, those glorious colorful leaves!
I just love that first, real fall morning where I can open my windows and breathe in Mother Nature's first introduction to autumn. That smell of the earth is something we can all relate to! Sometimes lately, I already feel the change in the air, when I am outside at 5 a.m. taking my dog for a walk. It really brings a smile to my face!I was up hiking today in the NW corner of CT today, and the usual signs of some of the trees beginning to lose their chlorophyll are noticeable. It happens every year about this time. An occasional branch teasing me with a slight reddish hint of color. And some burning bushes starting to turn. My tree guy admitted, yes, it's coming!!!! Just meandering down the dirt roads up there though, was making me pine for autumn in Vermont.
Yes, it has been a tough spring and summer, fairs and festivals and summer trips cancelled and major holidays taking on a different tone. Not to mention all the remote learning for the students and loss of jobs for so many.
Let's keep a positive attitude. It will pass. I hope all of you remain safe and healthy and we get back to a place where we can feel “normal” again in some way, shape or form.
Until then, I keep hiking away and tuck myself onto the forest trails where I find peace and tranquility. Then, I wait for the best season of all, now just around the corner. When it gets here, we'll be happy, won't we?
Hugs to all, CT
The nights are really cooling off here now and splashes of color are appearing everywhere in our higher elevation in northern CT. It's so exciting! 
CT