Somewhere in the distance the call of autumn can be heard. It’s faint and far-off right now, but it’s noticeable in small ways. There’s a change in the slant of the sun, and the air has a different smell. Some days dawn with warmth, and others have a cool chill – a sign of the seasonal change.

Even the call of the loons is different. It seems more lonely, especially as it rises above the steam coming off the lake. There will soon be a change in the migrating birds, both those coming and those leaving. The wood ducks have been sighted as they are passing through in their journey from north to south. The Canada geese have taught their young how to fly and soon, after their wings have strengthened significantly, they too will head south. With the rapidly decreasing daylight hours, the hummingbirds are active now in preparation for their departure. And the adult loons will soon be leaving, followed later by the juveniles.

There is a “weathered” color to the leaves now. The once-vibrant greens have faded, and we are starting to see hints of color. That symphony of color will only grow and crescendo in another four to six weeks. The steam will continue to rise off the lake in the mornings until the water temperature plummets below the air temperature.

It’s all a reminder to me of the passage of time, the preparation needed for the transition to winter, and the importance of appreciating each and every day and relishing the opportunity to embrace what is offered up to us.