This past summer appears to have flown by. Is it simply that we’re getting older? Or that the special events that mark our time have been omitted: Z’s annual college reunion, the local courgette festival, etc.. Whatever the cause, our days seem to have sped by in a stream of sameness. The equinox has just passed and we’re definitely moving into autumn, despite our temperatures being unseasonably high and still hovering just below 30oC midday.
Recently we have been beset with water problems. We had our septic tank emptied but found our waste water was not dispersing readily. So Z found himself digging to locate pipes then - literally up to the elbows L - trying to break up and extract the solidified silt that was causing pipe blockage. To mark his success, I made our live-in plumber his favourite tarte tatin as a treat.
Then there as water problem no. 2: an erratic water supply from our tank. On that score we will rely on professionals as we have ascertained the problem lies with the pump extracting the water from the water table. That needs repairing or renewal, and we fear the latter!
And here’s a sad scene: our pool emptying and filling with falling leaves. Ordinarily I would immediately switch to the spa venue to use the indoor pool. Unfortunately, they have not yet been given permission to open because of the covid-19 restrictions. So I am really missing it. Especially after a gardening session, that cooling dip was just the thing.
Our swallows have flitted off south and our
crickets keep us a quieter company, till they too will wind down into
silence. But let’s not dwell on the
negative aspects solely. For each season comes with its very own beauty.
- Our magnolia pods are swelling and will finally explode with bright berry-red seeds.
- The pampas grass is beginning to issue its fronds which will sway elegantly in the winter winds.
- Our olive trees have produced an abundance of green berries. Fingers crossed they will mature nicely into a good, healthy harvest.
This being our ‘season of mists’ I think this beautiful pixabay.com shot is quite atmospheric.
There are, however, for me some negative connotations right now. Unfortunately, a close friend, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s well over a year ago, has now dipped irretrievably into the mental mists produced by this hellish disease. Since she no longer recognised me on recent calls, I find it devastating to know we can no longer communicate meaningfully. Frustratingly I can do nothing to help her, but I do know she has been admitted to hospital for tests to help ascertain what medication and care best fit her needs. Unfortunately in both Britain and Greece some care homes seem not to have been managed competently, especially in terms of coronavirus protective measures. I pray all will turn out for her in the best possible way.
I’ve left with the ‘mellow fruitfulness part till the end. This is a sample of the fruit produced by our garden. Oh! I think I feel a wee still-life coming on!
May autumn tones and tastes enrich your days as they gradually draw in!
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