Autumn 2009

Autumn colour in Southern Ontario doesn't get much better than this and this tree is located right outside my front door. We have, in my opinion, the loveliest tree on the block. The fall colours have been a bit muted this year but little rivals the Canadian maple tree for spectacular hues of orange, red, yellow and brown.

The pumpkin producers have been complaining that there might not be enough pumpkins to go around for Hallowe'en. Apparently our cool, wet summer made for a poor harvest. You couldn't prove it by us though. I took this picture this morning at our local grocery store and the display was easily twice as big when I walked by on Friday. Somehow I don't think we are going to run out.

The big controversy this month has been about the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 (also known as the swine ) flu shot. The strain of both is supposed to be mild this year and I guess that's why some people are not getting either. I would ask you to think again about this if you have decided not to get either.

My husband and I managed to pick up a flu bug when we were away for the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. We probably had the 24 hour variety but we were sick enough and the lack of energy lasted for over a week after the flu symptoms went away. I am not so much concerned about me, although I don't want to get sick, but I am concerned about the people I come in contact with. I might escape with a mild does of the flu but it might be fatal for someone else.

I believe that the more people get both flu shots, the less people will end up in the hospital or just miserably sick at home. If you're afraid of needles, take a deep breath and close your eyes. The prick is hardly worth worrying about. And, an added bonus is that they're FREE!

Food for thought . . . 

Autumn

I call this the last rose of summer although it really is an aster and and I took this picture in October. It is unusual because most autumn flowers tend to be purple or orange or yellow. We've had this in our front yard for several years now. It is very hardy and has green leaves all summer and these lovely red flowers in the fall. A nice splash of colour.

The leaves in S. Ontario have started to change although around here only about 30 % of the leaves are turning from green on any given tree.

We are going to take a short holiday and drive to eastern Ontario for a few days. We are hoping to take some pictures of the lovely fall colours although the weather doesn't look too promising at the moment. There is a lot of rain in the forecast. Ah well . . . there are always malls to explore.  

It is going to be very cool so I have decided to give in and take my winter coat although I really resent wearing it before November. Needs must, I suppose!