I’m never quite sure the exact moment things hang in perfect equilibrium here at the 45th Parallel North, but I do know fall is certainly in the air this morning.  Summers here are the best in the world and we have had an especially lovely one this year.  Up until today, we’ve had warm, sunshiny days  and not a drop of rain since mid-June.  But today, I carried a cup of coffee with me to The Minto and the happy dogs came home damp with mist.  Still, we may get some Indian Summer days, so the kayak will be at the ready.

Looking out my upstairs window, I see what I think may be the last magnolia blossom for 2012:

And perhaps the first red leaves high in the liquid amber (known as “sweet gum” here in Oregon):

And just look on the lawn underneath — fallen leaves!:

That poor grass could sure use some rain.  I’m sure it will get its wish soon.