Fall is upon us and the cold winds have begun to whistle across the deck. The back garden is a carpet of bronze and yellow with maple leaves and the gnarled boughs that stand out against the icy blue sky. We know that it is time to brace ourselves, these sunshine children from Africa, for the Big Freeze.
A large group of migratory birds have been circling overhead for the last few days and regularly gather in our trees at the bottom of the garden and make a huge din as they squawk at each other. I presume this is to discuss the best route for the trip down south and have finally gathered up all their clan and the strength and set off on their long journey this weekend.
We rely on local knowledge to do all the necessary things around the house like draining the irrigation pipes, covering up outdoor furniture and carrying garden pots into the garage. We have acquired snow shovels, snow boots, thick coats and snow tyres for the car and have brought in books, puzzles and movies for those long, cold nights. The preparations are done and now we look forward to enjoying the last of the colours of Fall. There seems to be a definite time for everything here and nature gives us the clues. So if I cannot venture south then I need to just gather up my nuts and bed down!
You forgot to mention chopping and stacking firewood. Also, you guys can always seek refuge in Texas.
I might just take you up on that if it gets too cold here!
Looks like you are going in well prepared! Great opportunity to get cosy, read lots of books, watch movies and “nest.” It’s going to be fun!
Love your fluffy hood – at least you look warm! I remember that last day before winter caught up with us in Maine: the clothes wouldn’t dry on the washing line but became stiff and….. frozen.. Photo’s of fall in your back garden?
I remember when you told me about the clothes stuck on the washing line! Fortunately I hang mine inside over the staircase!