First Real Frost

Last night we had the first real frost here along the Connecticut River in Western Massachusetts. And while so many of us lament the end of summer, warm weather, long sunny days, our beloved gardens, and wonderfully fresh local produce, every season has its finer points. The Fall brings with it brilliant colors, refreshing cool air, pumpkins and, this morning, the magic of tiny ice crystals.

Plants that just yesterday looked spindly and sparse, looked like sparking filigree in the sunlight this morning.

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First Frost

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Others, like tiny wild asters that were in full bloom yesterday, looked like they were caught by surprise and were frozen while still in motion.

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Frozen Wild Aster

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While others, like tree  leaves and corn stalks that had already succomed gracefully to the shorter days and cooling temperatures, were covered with a frosting that gave them a new life.

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Frosted Fall Leaf

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And, so, with this first frost, Fall has truly arrived. But, like so many things, worrying about its cold weather and shorter days ahead of time makes it seem worse that it really is. It’s just the next step in the cycle, and one that ensures we will  more fully appreciate the Spring.

Remind me please, in late January, that I said all of this!

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