hanging on but not unwilling...

...to let go of summer's last days. As I sat on my beloved patio; that small outdoor space that we all adore, I couldn't help but think there will not be many more days like this one. I glanced up at my bamboo chimes and the sun was peeking through, small and weaker then a month ago but still so lovely. Almost like a good friend that you stand waving goodbye to as they walk down the road, waving and watching until they are out of sight. I've lived on the coast of California most of my life. The seasons don't show themselves here as boldly as they do in other parts of the state or country. But you learn to notice the subtle changes and over time they don't seem very subtle any more, but quite obvious! And they aren't always outside. The other day as I did my morning ritual of opening the blinds and starting the tea water, my feet were cold and really could have used a pair of socks for the first time in months. We sleep with our window open all spring and summer long, but the other night I woke up with a frozen nose! Little things like that signal the end of my favorite season.

Right now, in this house, the patio is my most poignant herald of the seasons. How excited we all get when spring comes, the sun's rays start to warm and the garden plants wake up. Still sleepy but stretching and ready to get out of bed very soon. We all do our part to tidy up our outdoor space that has seen the neglect of winter. It's not long at all before it feels like we've added onto the house, we spend so much time there. We wonder in and out all day long. Some to read, some to sit. Some to talk on the phone, or drink a cup of tea or eat a bowl of cereal. I was so happy to capture these moments of Noah drawing  (you can see more here ) That he took the time to pull all his things together and set himself up--on the patio--instead of the kitchen table where it would have been easier, tells me this space feeds his soul too.

And yet, I'm not unwilling to let go. Somehow, I'm always ready for the routine that Fall brings, for the cozy thoughts of getting to bed earlier and doing some reading that will last more then a few sentences because I've been staying up way to late. For planning hearty meals, for baking, for quiet evenings inside. For piling all together on the couch for a good movie, for adding an extra blanket to all the beds.

Fall, welcome. I'm ready for you. Excuse me a moment though while I wave goodbye to an old friend--she's almost out of sight.

Otter, basking in the patio sun.

Comments

[Junie Moon]

What a lovely posting for the change in seasons. Like you in California, fall doesn't announce itself in any big way in Tucson. I've been vicariously enjoying everyone else's posting about the changes they're enjoying.

[Hilda May]

As each day passes now I have been feeling a little dread about the Autumn coming......the sun farther away....the leaves falling off the trees...the end of the tomatoes in the poly-tunnel...the start of the new school term...but reading your post has made it a little more bearable....thankyou
Rachel x

[Chelsea]

Here in Illinois, we get very BIG changes in all four seasons. The weather is cooling back down into the 70's-80's. Soon we'll be freezing in our big coats and roasting hot dogs and having hay rides and making costumes. I do enjoy this time of year. For our winter though, I would gladly exchange a place in California.

[Molly]

I love the pic of your son at the "desk" outside! We homeschool too(well, we're unschoolers actually) and the kids do their thing in the oddest of places. Love the Otter too, he's beautiful!

Molly

[tea time and roses]

Toni what a beautiful post...just lovely. Your photos are so sweet, and Otter is movie star beautiful! I enjoy coming to your lovely site, and always look forward to my visits...

Smiles...

Beverly :o)

[Oona L]

As sad I am to see summer gone, I am a bit excited for fall too. It is my faveorite season. Up here in Eastern Canada the leaves changing and the crunching of the leaves when you walk down the sidewalk, cooler nights and the light breeze is more then welcomed to me. Although I will miss our beach days!!!
Love the post! You take such interesting pictures. I love it. You very much inspire me too look through my camera lense in a different light! Thanks again!!

[emily]

hello there friend! what a beautiful picture of the sun in the chime- i do say, your photo skills are coming right along! and what a wonderful way you put into words the changing of the seasons- my sentiments exactly(yeah, what she said). hope to see you very soon... love em

[monica]

Autumn is my favourite time of year... but you made me kind of nostalgic for the summer...

lovely post.

[Tracy]

Another lovely post, Toni...*SIGH* I've often thought that the mew year ought to start now, in fall, September--as it's so full of excitement, new beginnings, farewells, nostalgia...Happy Day ((HUGS))

[Rennagayle]

Here in the (north) eastern part of Texas, where the summer temps can hover at 100 and the percentage of humidity can nearly match that number, I welcome the coming of fall to the point that it makes me giddy.

Strangely enough, we didn't have our characteristically hot summer this year, hot yes, and humid, too, but not the torid heat we're used to each year. Still, I am embracing the change of seasons. I'm sure if our summers were lovely as yours, I'd be as reluctant to see them go as you are.

[amandajean]

oh, Toni, you have such a lovely way of writing things. I love the picture of Noah on the patio. I am ready for fall and hearty meals and piles of quilts and little socks...oh, how I love fall.

this was one lovely post. :)