Season's Change

Well here we are again. Summer flew by and fall has tiptoed in quietly this time around. The trees are just slowly as of today starting to turn the different brown, yellow, orange, red hews that bring the autumn season into full view.

Sadly fall and winter are not my favorite seasons. I know it is God's plan to let things happen and plants, trees and other living things must close the door to life and bring new life in but sometimes you stop and think it is just too soon.

This morning I opened the local newspaper to two wonderful pictures of butterflies. The migration of monarch butterflies has started its voyage to Mexico for the winter. One such nectar stop was the Highway Gardens at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The aster flower, native to Missouri helps make the trip a little easier. Although the deforestation in Mexico has caused the monarch to decline, steps are being made to protect and restore these beautiful flying wonders.

 I was glad I stopped by the highway gardens this morning and saw a few stragglers who wanted to stick around a little while longer.The window of opportunity is small to view them so I was glad the day was nice enough to catch a few.

As I was taking the pictures my thoughts went to a school friend who passed away this past weekend. We went all through school K-12. Although after graduation we saw each other at a reunion and more recently connected on Facebook occasionally, it was sad for me to think that someone I played on the playground growing up was gone too soon.   When I read the news on Facebook my first memory that came to mind was that she was the first person I remember in school that had food allergies. I am sure there were others but today everyone seems to be allergic to everything.

Like seasons changing, butterflies migrating, friendships come and go. Take time today to say hi, e-mail or message a friend or family member.