Autumn

We sat out back the other night and had our first fire of the season.  Autumn is here, it arrives differently in the desert than most other places. We’re not dealing with the cold, or snow and, unfortunately leaves changing colors isn’t one of the changes we get to see.

Our change of season is more subtle. A temperature drop from the highs of 115 to 85 may not seem like much of a change to some, but it is a 30 degree difference, that isn’t really subtle, it’s noticeable. Our lows are dipping into the 40’s as well, not quite time to turn on the heat, but an extra blanket on the bed feels good, as does the dog.

 One of the more noticeable changes is the play of light all day. With the sun moving south the light is gentler and more diffused. In the morning and evening there is a definite golden hue to the light that is lacking the rest of the year. Finally the harsh brilliance is gone.

Mostly it’s a feeling though, and that seems to be the same no matter what part of the country we are in. Even here we are breaking out the warmer clothes, making dinners that are a little heartier, loving and bemoaning the shortness of day and length of night at the same time.

Now if you put on Nat King Cole, or Yves Montand in the background performing “Autumn Leaves,” light a fire, pour a glass of cider, it won’t matter where you are. Autumn is here full force.