This is one of those transitory months that can begin with some lovely days, and then turn viciously cold and cruel. It’s still early enough not to mind it much – and a frigid snap with a stunning sun is actually a welcome jolt. A reminder that winter is indeed coming; I’ve made my peace with it long ago, and I would suggest you do the same. It’s much easier to enjoy a season that will arrive regardless of your wishes than to fight against it every step of the way.
As for the roads that lead through November – be wary and watchful. November begins with seductive beauty – this season especially finds many of our trees in glorious splendor. I’m looking outside our window now and seeing a tall mound of golden fountain grass and its sky-high seed plumes, as well as a fiery red coat for the Chinese dogwood. A climbing hydrangea has turned bright yellow, resplendent against a blue sky, and a pair of mighty oaks is all amber glory in the late afternoon light. I will make a memory of this moment for when the limbs are bare and the snow has come.
