Autumn by Charity Eugair

phasesofchange

Yesterday I smelled Autumn in the early morning air. Here in Vermont that’s a whisper of arid change, a mild edge, a gentle sensory reminder of what’s next. You might miss it if you’re not from here. But it’s real, and a true, reliable harbinger for those of us who grew up in this ever changing state.
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Always, this smell reminds me that soon the days will feel notably shorter, the mornings will get crisper and the green around us will go to chartreuse, then yellow, then brown. Autumn will overtake almost everything that’s been thrumming with progressive life all Spring and Summer.
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This is when I’m reminded to appreciate the green in all its shades and shapes and textures. The surge of blossoms is mostly over, save for sunflowers and dahlias. Even the bee balm is saying a long goodbye now.
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Soon all will be asleep except the pines and Christmas ferns and a few others. Fiery shades and the dry noises of Autumn under my feet will greet me on the trails. The branches will bare themselves and the pulse of the woods will slow.
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For now, I’m content. Bouquets of mostly green still delight me, as the season wraps itself up slowly. Autumn is bittersweet, but for me always a joy. It’s a goodbye, yes, but always with a promise of return. -