Autumn

 I smelled the wood shop on a cold winter's day. Just off in the distance, I heard the tap-tap-tap of a blacksmith's hammer as he forged new life into a piece of steel. Life in the country was all I ever wanted, even though the days were filled with work that stretched into darkness.

 I never grew tired of sitting on the porch as stories were told and the sounds of laughter filled the air. The smell of a Sunday dinner, a gift given to say thank you for all we have, a grandkid sitting on my knee, another playing marbles in the dirt, biding his time before the screen door opened and Grandma yelled at him to get cleaned up for dinner.

Every season had meaning and gave me reasons to love each one. My favorite was Autumn, when the colors were at their peak, and the smell of pumpkin pies cooling on the window ledge filled me with a sense of happiness I couldn't describe.

Apple cider, roasted chestnuts, Pecan pie, and a rocking chair were all I needed to be happy. Family and friends gathered to share a meal; little ones chased a chicken, the smell of burning leaves, and a chill in the air. All the things I love are alive in my memories of Autumn.

Mike 2024