Head Start To Fall?

I woke up this morning to the sound of a neighbor getting a head start on those Fall chores. There seems to be an unwritten code of conduct in this neighborhood that states, "Thou shall not have one leaf in Thy yard and Thou shall covet Thy neighbor's leaf- free grass."

Last year, since we were new to the area, we were unaware of this code. Since then we have been ostracized by our surrounding dwellers.

We no longer get the friendly wave when driving by, but instead a disgruntled nod. Most often, they look away in disgust. For we are the neighbors who don't rake our leaves. There, I admitted it.

Perhaps, there is a support group hidden in the outskirts of town. Where other neighbors can share in their neglectful ways . I love this season, don't get me wrong. But, the minute I saw the first leave fall, I felt all those feelings of inadequacy come rushing in.

We are not good enough neighbors.

This year we vow to abide by the code and also get a head start.

We bought a leaf blower.

Cowgirls Rule

Cowgirls Rule
by One Of A Crane
This necklace measuring 18 inches of western trinkets allows you
to summon your inner cowgirl.
Yippie Kay Yay!!!
now available
at Kelly Lane
Resale Boutique
http://www.shopkellylane.com/

Chirpy

Chirpy
16 x 20
acrylic
on board

How Was Your Summer?

I have pondered your question for quite sometime (How was your Summer?)

It really made me think,weird huh?

You said that you're feeling old and slow. Don't worry, it must just be the weather.

Not since school, have I been aware of Summer as a noun.

Back then Summer was a break.

Summer was time with friends. When days spent at the pool turned into nights out too late to remember.

There were no obligations or responsibilities.

Ah, Summer, where did it go?

Summer meant an entirely different thing many years ago.

Now, one day, you wake up and realize the temperature is cooler and the leaves are starting to change.

No more sandals or tank tops.

Those Michelle Obama arms that I worked so hard to get all Summer will soon be covered under layers. A good excuse I tell myself as I skip the gym,

yet, another day.

I had coffee with a neighbor this morning. She had the day off from her very demanding job.

She said she hasn't even had time to notice that the leaves are starting to change.

Each day from my studio window I watch Summer fade as Fall takes over on a large oak tree across the street. It's a little less green each day.

You are not old and slow, but if you think so, just be glad you are aware........

Oh, by the way,

how was your Summer?

From The Barn

From The Barn
acrylic on slat board
19 x 30