September Delights

MID-SEPTEMBER MARKS THE BEGINNING of my favorite time of the year. It is welcome and brings pleasure and reflections for me. The cooler mornings set the stage to enjoy the afternoon sun, and I appreciate the subtle changes that are happening all around.

Maple trees are beginning to display red and orange leaves in countryside landscapes. Pumpkins replace sweet corn for sale stacked on large wooden wagons that dot the landscape along the highways. I’m particularly impressed with the many shapes and various colors that are available in today's pumpkins.

Apples are ripening in orchards. The harvest has started on early-season apples, including Paula Red, Gala, and McIntosh. Wooden crates are stacked at the end of apple trees in anticipation of being filled with the orchard's bounty.

Old Mission and Leelanau County have seen extensive planting of wine grapes over the past twenty-five years. As of the latest count, there are more than 40 wineries scattered across the two peninsulas, serving locals and tourists who appreciate their offerings. It’s such an enjoyable experience to have a glass of wine with a cheeseboard in late summer and fall and slowly take in the afternoon sun.

Go for it!