THE AUTUMNAL EQUINOX

AUTUMNAL EQUINOX - One of two times a year when the Sun crosses the equator, and the day and night are of approximately equal length.
At the autumnal equinox (Sept 22, 2009; 5:18 P.M. EDT), the Sun appears to cross the celestial equator, from north to south; this marks the beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. (from Wikipedia)

Yes, it has been slightly cooler here in coastal Delaware, but we still have beach days into the autumn.  Actually, this is the best time of year to visit this area or for locals to hang out without the summer crowds.

It always amazes me that Fall seems to arrive on September 1.  Oh, the weather is still warm and sunny, but it is something that is just felt in the air.  The colors are suddenly more golden, the sky is a clearer blue, sometimes there is already a faint smell of woodsmoke.  Everybody comments on it.  I have had my homegrown pumpkin on the front step for a month or so.  It is the first time I have grown a pumpkin from last year's Halloween pumpkin.  He was early, but he survived.

The Fall is a busy time here in this resort area.  October brings our annual Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival.  There are main events at the local convention center (sometimes big names like Chris Botti!) and the restaurants and bars offer their own jazz groups.  The following week is the Seawitch Festival which is the Halloween celebration in Rehoboth Beach.  There are lots and lots of things for kids of all ages to do on the beach and in the town.  November brings our annual Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival .  Some people stay throughout an entire day watching movie after movie and leave bleary-eyed and tired.

Autumn is my favorite season for many reasons, but primarily because it is the season of my birthday.  I was born on Thanksgiving!

AUTUMN...AGAIN

FOR A FEW DAYS there I thought that summer had returned. Yesterday was around 80 degrees. Yes, it was beautiful, but geez, I thought this was autumn. Today should be in the 60's which is fine by me.


I just read the most inspiring post by Barbara at The Clark Homestead. Stop by if you can. It really expresses what so many people are doing these days and for some, what they have always done. Making do. Being frugal. Doing what our grandparents might have done. I can't say that I am one of these people, but I never did have wealth so some of it comes naturally. But - the idea is there. The seed that germinates into something. If I could I would put a windmill up or install solar panels. I would have a goat to cut the grass and a few chickens for eggs. What I can do is plant a better garden next year. I can refrain from buying that handbag that I don't really need. I can be more aware of where my money is being spent. These are tough times for a lot of people and we can learn from this. I have been reading a lot of blogs written by smart, strong women who are tightening their belts and getting on with life and doing their parts (big and small) to make their lives and those of their families good. There is a lot of doom and gloom out there right now, but I don't read it in those blogs. They are truly uplifting.

On a lighter note, here are a few pictures of some decorating I have been doing. I love my Fall "tablescape." We never use the dining room table, but this Thanksgiving we will do it proud because my daughter and son-in-law and grandsons are coming to Grammy's house - driving all the way from Massachusetts. With the dog.



Those glass domes and soup tureens were all bought at thrift stores for a few dollars each. The vintage suitcases the same. Really. See how frugal I can be?









There's a picture of Chloe strolling by. And of course, the king of the palace - Beau the poodle with some of his treasures - a sock and two stuffed animals that are now stuffing-less.


Have a wonderful day, dear bloggers. I love you all.