It's Fall

Yesterday at this time I was standing in the middle of a pumpkin patch with Ben's kindergarten class, the freezing wind cutting through my jacket. Today, I just got back from a walk and the air was actually balmy. I didn't even need to wear a jacket. I love fall days like this! I remember fall days in Palatine, IL--one day would be 75 degrees, the next 35. The swings aren't quite so drastic here, but we still have them. It's like Mother Nature is putting up a fight, trying to extend the warmth a little longer until she'll let winter take over. Brad and Jillian are going on a father/daughter campout tonight, so I hope it stays warm for them!

Ben's class listening to the "farmer" talk about different types of pumpkins and squash. They were so funny, every time she told them one of the names, they all laughed like a comedy laugh track. They thought "banana squash" and "spaghetti squash" were especially hilarious for some reason! Ben and his buddies with the pumpkins they chose. Yes, Ben is wearing shorts even though it was freezing outside. For some reason, he insists on wearing shorts every day. When I ask him if he ever gets cold, he says "I was made for cold!" He didn't get that from me!
This is the pumpkin Ben chose. He likes little things.

My favorite tree in our yard right now. I love the bright yellow leaves, especially when it's a grey day.

My big yellow dahlia finally decided to bloom! This is only about 1/3 of the size it will be when if is fully open. I love the way the hydrangeas change color in the fall from their brilliant blues to more subdued purples and pinkish browns. They age very gracefully.

Here's a vase of hydrangeas I picked to dry. I hope they keep their gorgeous colors. The green ones used to be white. I love the way fall colors things.