Yesterday dawned gloomy and grey. I awoke to the sound of heavy rainfall and, for a moment, gave thanks for the new roof and gutters finally completed this summer.

A mist rose over the muted green and brown trees on a hillside that should be more colorful this first week of October.

Where are all the pretty colors? We ask the question without expecting a response. They likely won’t come this year thanks to a long, dry summer.

The day was cooler and quiet save for the rain or perhaps because of it.

Fall began on the calendar last month. In my corner of the world, it began yesterday when I awoke to cooler air and a distant mist that was both spooky and reassuring.

Fall has arrived, the day said. Relax and understand that summer’s incessant heat isn’t your burden to carry.

Stop, take a breath and enjoy this day.