
Copyright 2008 by R.O. Robbins
“Just before the death of flowers,
And before they are buried in snow,
There comes a festival season
When nature is all aglow.” — Author Unknown

“Just before the death of flowers,
And before they are buried in snow,
There comes a festival season
When nature is all aglow.” — Author Unknown

Here in the American Midwest we say we won’t discuss politics or religion. In reality, we won’t discuss them with people who disagree. We will talk about both all day long with those considered “like minded.”
This rule is supposed to prevent conflict. What it does is cause conflict by preventing communication. The gridlock and lack of cooperation in our Federal government is also in our cities, neighborhoods and even our homes.
Nothing will get better while we choose sides and blame each other. We must start talking. Next time you are tempted to shut down a conversation with “I don’t discuss…” perhaps you really should talk about it. Listen with an open mind and both sides might just learn something

“Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.” — Elizabeth Lawrence

“Thy bounty shines in autumn unconfined. And spreads a common feast for all that live.” –– James Thomson
I write when I am inspired. That means instead of writing a new blog post each day I write as I feel led and schedule my posts ahead. But sometimes I goof and things post immediately. I re-schedule these as quickly as possible, but my subscribers may receive notification of a new blog post that isn’t actually there. I apologize for these boo-boos. I started out on Blogger and learning WordPress has been taking more time than I expected. Please hang in there with me as I keep learning.
When I discovered this music video I knew I had to share it with you. So turn on your speakers, sit back and get ready for a real day brightener. The tune is catchy and I guarantee you will find yourself humming or singing this throughout the day.

“A few days ago I walked along the edge of the lake and was treated to the crunch and rustle of leaves with each step I made. The acoustics of this season are different and all sounds, no matter how hushed, are as crisp as autumn air.” — Eric Sloane

“For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together.
For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad.” — Edwin Way Teale

What do you put on your popcorn?
Me? I like these — not all at once of course!
I also like to spray my air popped corn with a little citrus juice (lemon and lime are my favorites), spray margarine, Braggs Liquid Aminos or even water. It helps spices stick to the corn without adding lots of fat and calories.
Now it’s your turn. What do you put on your popcorn?

“To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring.” — George Santayana
As I grow older I find myself becoming more and more in tune with the changing of the seasons. When I left for the grocery store in the early morning there was a nip in the air. At the store I found myself yawning and grabbing everything I could think of to make soup. Finally I realized cool mornings, all I want to do is sleep, cook and eat… MUST BE FALL!
Yes, it is. Time to put away the summer clothes and bring out the winter, clean house, rake leaves, and winterize the car. Please don’t get so busy you forget to look around you. It’s gorgeous out there!

Grabbing the jacket from the doorknob I felt a flutter. Startled, I saw a monarch butterfly flying out of the jacket.
When it landed Bob said “get the camera.” The butterfly remained in one place as if posing, letting me take photos.
When it had flown across the room I saw the cat stomping something. Fighting the cat, I gently picked up the butterfly I was sure was dead and headed for the patio door. Wings started rustling and it fell to the floor. While I restrained a determined cat, the butterfly found it’s way to the patio. Then as quickly as it made it’s appearance it took off, landing briefly in the tree, then flying away.
Life is hard. Sometimes it seems all we do is struggle and suffer. Then we are surprised by joy.