This 2010 Vermont foliage vacation, my longest yet in duration, was totally satisfying. Much to my amazement, I drove home on 89 and then 91 with nary a tear in my eye. Instead, that glow of contentment that normally accompanies my journey “into” Vermont surfaced and won out. (Come on, you know that smile that is supposed to unfold when you cross the border, not leave it?
).This musing comes to you not as one of melancholy but as an affirmation of personal fulfillment. The proverbial “big picture”came into fruition for me this year. Let me explain. I’ve often returned from Vermont fall vacations feeling slightly lost for a period of time. Like I haven’t finished a job to it’s entirety. But this year my soul feels nourished, something has changed. You may ask, “So, what happened?”
The answer is in the culmination of some incredible road trips, exciting new adventures and activities, beautiful foliage and scenery, and last but not least, the very, very special bonding with SOV friends, old and new. My heart flutters thinking of the dear friends with whom I have met on this forum. It’s all about the total Vermont experience.
At this stage in my life, I want to finally embrace each season that Mother Nature has to offer. There is no sense in rushing the days ahead just to lie in wait for autumn to appear. Every day, no matter what time of year, is to be held sacred and precious. Embrace each and every one of them. And don’t forget to count your blessings.
Yes, winter is long, cold, dark and snowy. No doubt about that. It’s often hard to get through it here in New England. But think of that first snowfall, the cozy fireplace by the inn, the clear, crisp nights with those sparkling highlights on the snow from the moon and the stars, the exhilarating ice skate on a frozen pond.
Soon spring will renew us. Summer will warm us. And fall is not far behind. Once again, Mother Nature will open the flood gates for her finest hour. In my opinion, it is the most sensual season of them all.
And once again, I, will succumb to fall foliage fever in Vermont. See you next Autumn.
I drove through Granville on Wednesday and the farmer had the piggies in the barn for the winter.