Autumn is when New England gets to show off, and it does so in a glorious fashion. It's one of the reasons I was tempted to move here from the dreary, rainy, grey Pacific Northwest. Autumn is a celebration of colors that seem garish at any other time of the year. What other month but October could have orange everywhere and not feel self-conscious?
These lovely things are called "Cinderella Pumpkins", and if you're fanciful enough you can see how a fairy godmother could work some magic and turn them into a coach fit for a woman on her way to meet Prince Charming.
I am always amazed at the numerous varieties of pumpkins and squashes. Have there always been this many and I wasn't aware? Very possible. Or do they keep creating new ones so I'll have something else to wonder about? Mmm. . .
For instance, when did Jabba the Hutt become a pumpkin? And the person who hoisted him up onto that bale of hay--are they still collecting worker's comp, or are they resting comfortably at home now?
New England is also known for its apples, and until I moved here I thought there were only about four varieties, and two of those had the word "delicious" in them. Apple orchards are everywhere here, which makes it too easy to take them for granted. And no, that "one bad apple" wasn't there when I snapped this picture yesterday. I have no idea why it wants to try to spoil the whole bunch.
"An apple a day". . .this ought to keep you going for a few weeks. Just don't look at that one apple. What? You can't see it? I'm not gonna point it out then. You'll just have to find it yourself.
Yes, autumn is a beautiful moment in this part of the world. My only complaint is how quickly it fades into the next season, which is fast becoming my least favorite of the four choices each year. Winter is way too eager to shove autumn out of the way, as if it's greedy to dispel the spicy scents of apples and the poetry-inspiring foliage of oak and maple trees. Knowing that the bitter cold of winter is hovering nearby is what gives autumn a bit of a melancholy air, so it's a good reminder to savor all its beauty.
After all, in a very short while, this is what will be here. . .
(Don't worry -- that crazy chair actually prefers winter.)
Autumn is taking its time this year, veering between too-hot summer weather and too-cold winter temperatures. Until it brings along the beautiful colors and scents of the fall season, these pics from last year can remind us of its splendor.
Autumn is definitely my favorite season. It's been awesome here in Northern MN with a late Autumn so I hope that will make the winter feel shorter! Beautiful pictures!
Posted by: Melissa | October 14, 2011 at 09:16 AM
Melissa, it's definitely my favorite season too. But this one is getting a slow start. If it's gonna be cool enough that I'm wearing sweatshirts, I want some fall colors on the leaves! LOL But hopefully you're right and this means a shorter winter. *fingers crossed*
Posted by: Donna Cummings | October 14, 2011 at 08:13 PM
Lovely pictures Donna.
I often visit the Vale of Evesham in 'Old England' where I can buy apples from roadside stalls.
Another favourite location is an arboretum close to Prince Charles's home in the Cotswolds. The autumn colours are just stunning. Its like wandering through a fairy land with lots of opportunities for the young uns to frolic and play hide and seek.
I imagine that 'New England' will be on a much grander scale though.
What species is that gorgeous tree with the golden leaves?
I think that one of the most beautiful places in the entire universe is John Ruskin's house on the shore of lake Coniston in the English Lake District. I was there a few weeks ago and particularly remember the Ruskin quote:
“Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty if only we have the eyes to see them.”
I can see exactly what he meant from your snaps!
Thanks for sharing. *smile*
Posted by: Quantum | October 15, 2011 at 03:55 AM
Q, I wish I could visit "Old England" again. It's been way too long since my first (and only!) visit, and it was this time of year, come to think of it. I've got to find my pics from then, because I remember being at Windsor Castle and seeing the beautiful fall colors and wanting to look at it forever. :)
I didn't make it to the Lake District, but it's definitely on my list for the next visit (whenever that is!)
I love the farmstands here, and all the orchards. In fact, I plan to get some apples today so I can make this cake I always associate with this time of year. I'll be sharing it with you virtually!
And the tree -- I'm pretty sure it's an oak tree, since they're the ones that typically turn that yellow color. My favorites are the maples, with their sassy red leaves. It makes me catch my breath every time I see one. I'll have to find a pic of that somewhere.
Thanks for sharing the quote. It's beautiful. And a good reminder. :)
Posted by: Donna Cummings | October 15, 2011 at 09:19 AM