The smell of Autumn

As winter approaches, the temperatures here in Greece are still quite high for this time of year. Over the last few years, seasons have changed, and we have seen it go from winter to summer, summer to winter within just a few days. However, the last few days have shown us that summer is over. At night it rains, with thunder and lightning doing their best to disturb our sleep, and in the morning we witness a sweet sunny, autumn morning with only the wet roads as evidence that the night was anything more than peaceful. Nature fools us again...

As you walk through the village streets, the morning air is filled with the smell of bread, wafting from the bakery. The sound of various tools can be heard in the distance, as most villagers prepare their olive groves so that they can start to gather this years harvest. As I walk past the houses, the sound of water running, and women scrubbing can be heard, as housewives prepare their homes. You see, here in Greece, our homes also adapt to the changing season. Carpets and rugs are laid down, sheets and curtains change colour to match the season. Thin summer clothing and linen is put away- to the top of wadrobes or to the back of storerooms. Warm quilts and clothing is brought back out to be aired and cleaned once more. Here in Greece, we change and adapt according to the seasons.

As I go for my morning walks - I have taken up pace walking to help clear my mind and keep my body fit- I notice the changing colors, the changing day, the changing world. The cars have lessened as have the tourists. The small yachts which filled the waters have disappeared once more. The buses have stopped running. There is a peace which is hard to find anywhere in the world...

This is the smell of Autumn...