My brothers and I were given a small allowances, but we were encouraged to volunteer to help grand parents and neighbors. Each season had it’s own set of chores. In winter we cleared snow from sidewalks and driveways. Spring was time to clean yards of tree branches and leaves. Summer found us mowing and trimming grass with clippers. But Fall was my favorite for working. My home town had many trees. They all dropped their leaves during October. Smaller lots made the job easier. The sound of the bamboo scraping across grass mingled with the scent of drying leaves. Autumn days were cooler to keep us from sweating.
Raking a large pile into the street, the fun would begin. Yes, jumping into a large pile of leaves was a reward for the raking. I would be allowed to burn the leaves in the road.
Leaves catch fire quickly. A piece of paper or tissue, lit with a match would be enough to start the leaves blazing.
I can still remember the scent of burning dried leaves as one of my favorite memories.
Another Fall tradition was a visit to the local cider mill. Parmenter’s, one of the longest running mills , celebrated 150 years of operation. Started by two brothers after the civil war, the first press was run by a team of horses walking in a circle. Over the years, Northville had several more cider mills spring up. Our family frequented Foremans on Seven Mile. It was also run by two brothers, with mills side by side. The brothers took turns opening. They hours of operation were extended. The cider mills sold apples and fresh donuts to go with the pressed cider.
Pumpkin carving was displayed during the month of October. The elaborate carvings were judged and prizes were given for the best.
This tradition has changed to include full size dressed skeletons around the downtown business area. Over 100 skeletons are posed outside shops and centers. A skeleton in yoga garb may be leading a class doing downward dog. Another pair of skeletons may be getting a hair cut. A third group of skeletons will be be selling newspapers.
After the trick or treating hours are done, the citizens stroll to the town’s center for prizes to be bestowed and Halloween treats to be distributed to all.
The scent of drying leaves, bonfires and the taste of sweet cider keep fall memories alive for me.
Nature’s Harvest
Like a pregnant woman,
Bursting with bounty’s gifts.
Fruits hang heavy on the vine.
Nuts and seeds fill the squirrel burrows.
Man gathers the harvest.
Mother nature completes autumn’s tasks.
Shedding her greens for the colorful fall palette.
Gathering her skirts to be scattered by a chilly wind,
She prepares for a winter’s rest.
First appeared in the 2023 Avocet
carolaspot@aol.com
copyright 10-2-2023
traveling up and down the blind highway 