This past week, I picked the last of my tomatoes and peppers. The last zucchini was a few weeks ago. Soon I’ll be tearing down the plants and covering the planting beds for winter. Each year, this gardening ritual serves as a reminder of how short the seasons seem, how quickly they pass.
I don’t fully enjoy fall in spite of crisp sunny days with low humidity. Despite gorgeous fall colors. Autumn is the precursor to dreaded winter. I hate being cold and driving in snow. I miss walking my dog each day and sitting on my front porch visiting with neighbors. I spend winter counting the days until spring.
A coworker at my university once shared a warning from his mom who told him, “Don’t wish your life away.” It does, indeed pass quickly.
Alex celebrated her tenth birthday day this summer exclaiming, “Finally double digits!” A couple months ago, I celebrated one year publication anniversary for Neighborhood Girl. Last month, I gratefully acknowledged being one year cancer free. There are milestones to celebrate.
After I carried the tomatoes inside and spread them out on the kitchen counter, I picked some basil. I plan to make and freeze pasta sauce to enjoy this winter. A reminder of summer days passed.
Linda Schifino 