Ready or Not, Here It Comes

As I am meandering back to my office after an enjoyable lunch break

I look over to my left.

What is that?

Why are those leaves red?

What kind of plant is that?

Hmmmm.

Wait . . .

The leaves should be green like the other ones around it.

And then it hits me . . .

it's September.

Fall is coming.

Ready or not . . .it's on its way.

It's time for shorter days, cooler nights, crisper mornings.

Sweaters.

Bowls of warm soup with crusty bread.

Changing leaves.

Doesn't that sound wonderful?

OK - I tried.

I tried to make it sound wonderful and romantic and as if I am exicted for the change.

But Nope.

It's not working.

I'm sure I will get my brain wrapped around it soon enough - but the point is -

I'm not quite done with summer yet.

I still haven't eaten the perfect peach that drips down your arm when you bite into it.

I haven't gotten my fill of watermelon.

I haven't had enough naps out in my hammock listening to the windchime.

I still haven't gone to the river and jumped into the cold water - grateful for that initial burst of cold against my hot and sweaty skin.

I haven't sat in a park listening to the music at a free outdoor concert.

I haven't even had a chance to get tired of the hot temperatures or the stale air conditioned air.

I still haven't gotten a chance to drive to the mountain to visit a lake and float around on our inflatable raft.

I haven't smelled enough warm blackberries growing wild on the side of the road.

I haven't walked around the farmers market on a warm Saturday morning gathering a basketfull of fresh produce.

I haven't heard the ice cream truck drive through my neighborhood, with it's tinny speakers blasting out the sounds of childhood.

I haven't stepped into the shower, cursing myself as the water stings my sunburned shoulders because I forgot to reapply the sunscreen - but grateful at the same time because my day was spent playing outside.

So - for the time being, I am going to ignore the changing colors on the trees.

And I am going to do my best to hold on to summer just a bit longer.

How bout you?

Are you ready for the change of season?