Indian Summer...
...After cold rains and blustery winds much of the brilliant colors of fall are scattered all over the ground turning a sad brown. Today has turned out to be warm and gloriously sunny. After a weekend of 50 to 60 degree temps we are experiencing mid-70's. Is this our Indian summer in Ohio? Last evening I looked at the night skies and realized that it was the first time in quite a while that I could clearly see all the fall constellations. Viewing the stars never fails to thrill me. Everywhere I am continually hearing, "If it could only be like this all year 'round..." But all too soon the holidays will be upon us. Already I am hearing advertising for Christmas party reservations and how we should be making our New Year's Eve plans. Too much too soon! Just give me a chance to savor the warm air and lights and colors of fall for the last brief moments of Indian summer
Recently a friend of mine asked me how Indian summer was determined. The best explanation of Indian summer I have seen was the description and lore found in Farmer's Almanac. The warm, breezy days called Indian summer usually occur after the first hard frost in late fall. This usually happens after November 1st and can be any tine between November 10th to the 20th. The air becomes warm with little current. A smoky haze gangs in the air. Part of the lore says that the haze is the smoke from ghostly Indian campfires of the past. When the weather turned cold, settlers felt safe to go outside without their firearms. As the weather turned warm again, ;it was the time when the Indians attacked the white settlers one more time before winter, thus the name of Indian summer. Vibrant fall leaves were reminders of the Indian war paint worn during the attacks.
Fortunately we no longer need to be afraid of attacks during Indian summer. This late in the fall most of the leaves are gone from the trees. But, as typical of the moody broody weather of November, there seems to be a greater appreciation of the sparse colorful leaves remaining. I have gotten some of my best fall leaf photos in November. Each day is a precious jewel to be preserved and enjoy during the gray and cold days of winter. I will be sure to share those gems as I go on "walk about" around the Magic City...
Recently a friend of mine asked me how Indian summer was determined. The best explanation of Indian summer I have seen was the description and lore found in Farmer's Almanac. The warm, breezy days called Indian summer usually occur after the first hard frost in late fall. This usually happens after November 1st and can be any tine between November 10th to the 20th. The air becomes warm with little current. A smoky haze gangs in the air. Part of the lore says that the haze is the smoke from ghostly Indian campfires of the past. When the weather turned cold, settlers felt safe to go outside without their firearms. As the weather turned warm again, ;it was the time when the Indians attacked the white settlers one more time before winter, thus the name of Indian summer. Vibrant fall leaves were reminders of the Indian war paint worn during the attacks.
Fortunately we no longer need to be afraid of attacks during Indian summer. This late in the fall most of the leaves are gone from the trees. But, as typical of the moody broody weather of November, there seems to be a greater appreciation of the sparse colorful leaves remaining. I have gotten some of my best fall leaf photos in November. Each day is a precious jewel to be preserved and enjoy during the gray and cold days of winter. I will be sure to share those gems as I go on "walk about" around the Magic City...
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