Everyone believes leaves change color based on temperatures, but science says chlorophyll production depends on the amount of daylight and photosynthesis. With shorter days, the tree replenishes less chlorophyll, the vibrant green fades, and familiar fall pigments become visible. This weekend, my windshield captured a small yellow leaf, and I realized autumn had arrived.

Asters and chrysanthemums are beginning to bloom, and an evening chill encourages me to search for a warm sweater. According to the lunar calendar, we are in for a special treat. I always note the date of the annual Harvest Moon, the first full moon after the equinox, so I don’t miss it. This year it falls on Thursday, October 1, and sets the stage for a Halloween Blue moon on Saturday, October 31—Halloween night. Doesn’t that sound perfect for Halloween?

It is time to turn off the air conditioning and throw open the windows. My garden begs for pruning and trimming, and I will relish the last fruits I can gather before a frost ruins them. I have scheduled the chimney sweep and ordered a face cord of firewood. Marshmallows wait to be toasted, pumpkins will transform themselves into scary jack-o’-lanterns or tasty pies, and caramel apples compete for attention. Everything urges me to sit at my desk, soak in the inspiration, and write.

Do you look forward to Autumn?

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Keep on writing.

Jo Hawk The Writer