Homage to Autumn

I’m one of those strange people who loves winter. Australia is on the cusp of a season change this Sunday, June 1, going from autumn (fall) to winter. Most of you reading this – those of you in the northern hemisphere – will be embracing the change from spring to sunny summer, and I daresay would not like to even think about there being cold weather somewhere else in the world!

But, my lovelies, do not pity those of us who reside south of the equator. Well, at least not this little snow bunny.

I adore this time of year. And I’m trying to make sure that my girls appreciate – nay, love – autumn and its serene sister, winter.

For me, one of the best things about autumn is the changing color of leaves. It’s something I’ve really made a big deal of this year, pointing out breathtakingly glorious trees as we drive or walk by, noting the vibrant yellows, the deep russets, and the golden browns.

When we’re out for a walk, we spend a little while just appreciating the beauty of the trees. The girls have embraced this, making a competition of spotting the most beautiful trees, and dragging me around streets or parks to show me their finds. I just love hearing their gasps of joy and wonder as they spot yet another gorgeous, colorful tree. We also spend time appreciating the bark on the trees, running our hands over it and noticing whether it’s smooth or rough, and whether there are any little creatures living in it. And then there are those tree hugs…

In our own garden, the girls sit peacefully watching leaves tumble from enormous old trees that we’re so lucky to have (thank you so much to the people who planted them all those years ago!), and love helping Daddy rake up mounds of leaves – perfect for crunching underfoot, and for leaping into.

I really hope that this attention to detail, to noticing the beauty in each season – no matter how short-lived that beauty may be – is a habit the girls will carry with them throughout their lives.

But now, it’s time to hibernate. The leaves have dropped. (And quickly! One tree in our garden was full of gorgeous leaves only two weeks ago – see the first tree picture – and is now a mass of spindly branches – see the second tree picture.) Autumn is turning over a new leaf and floating gracefully into an icy slumber. Bring it on.

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