Ach-oo!

Here we go! Well, I knew those warm, outdoorsy kinds of days were soon to be a thing of the past, and so it is. The startling drop in temperature coupled with the first rain of the season is Mother Nature's way of telling me to trade the sleeveless dresses and comfy shorts for long pants and woolly sweaters. Done!

Arriving along with the expected rain and b-r-r-r factor is the onset of my first cold of the season. It seems to go with the chilly, soggy territory. With my tissue box nearby, I am all cozied up in my flannels and about to slurp piping hot black bean soup into my mouth. After that will come a major decision: whether to read my book or watch a DVD. Or maybe just nap. I do love nodding off with the pitter-patter of rain gently ringing in my ears.

The drenched picnic table, no longer the center of joy and celebration, pines forlornly on the deck, remembering summer's margaritas, chips, guacamole, and the sounds of laughter.  Those happy days will return eventually, but in the meanwhile quiet is the name of the game.

Winnie and Cleo

The lady pugs, lovers of sunshine and deck merriment, have abandoned this now saturated summer scene for the comfort of their snug wicker basket, reluctantly going outdoors and getting their dainty paws wet only when their bladders are about to pop.

So I welcome the raindrops, the grey skies, and the chill in the air. My sneezing and sniffling? Well, that I really could do without. Now, for that black bean soup...