Since soft autumn rains have fallen, the earth
has taken on a new sheen of green, a restful,
soft quietness. Yellows, bronzes, and russets begin to
color the woods, and woodbine torches the treetops
with brilliant reds and corals.
Across the valley the view is broadened to reveal
blue-gray hills like elephant humps parading along
the horizon. Smoke twirls up from brush cutting,
and from a chimney or two, the first show of smoke
from evening fires appears.
Fruit stands along side roads offer pumpkins in
all sizes, a few melons, and squashes in countless
colors and shapes. Harvest time, the season of abun-
dance, is here. The busyness of the growing season
now begins to slow. The gentle pace of autumn
quiets us and helps us walk in serenity and peace.

Can you no longer dally?
-TECUMSEH, SHAWNEE

By: Joyce Sequichie Hifler