Spirits soar, young and old alike, as each gathers under the big tents filled with fall foliage. Golden leaves strewn nonchalantly among the booths mingled with colors of burgundy and golden yellow announce that fall has indeed arrived in all her glory.

Stalks from corn long since gathered, boast their presence standing tall by booths of crafts lovingly prepared months ahead.

Festive music works its magic while clog dancers share their fancy footwork with a group gathered to join in the fun. Hands clapping, toes tapping, the dancers continue their seemingly effortless dance encouraged by the crowd.

The scents of polish sausage, hamburgers, and corn on the cob, (slathered with warm butter,) linger in the air stimulating appetites and enticing all to sample a tasty morsel. Conversations between family and friends fill the tent. While dining on delectable tidbits, they catch up on the latest news.

Plaid-lined shelves of homemade jellies and jams bring back memories of laughter and stories shared in a kitchen filled with sumptuous scents of apple jelly and pumpkin pies.

Grandpas weave their tales of snakes in the blackberry bush, and the temperamental badger who refused to give up his space, while wide-eyed children listen intently.

When the early morning frost gives way to a warmer mid-day and evening draws its curtains on the day of harvest celebration, all gather round to give thanks to God for his abundant blessings of food, family and friends; and for a year of good health.

As we say goodbye to warm summer days and hello to another season of beauty, we look forward to a whisper of promise for yet another season to come…and with it, a new beginning.

Father, I give thanks for the seasons of life, which are constantly changing, as time marches ever so quickly forward. Knowing you will never leave nor forsake us, I count each day as a blessing and a time for sharing, growing, and loving. Amen.

Copyright 2003 by Marie Williams