Slow Living Through the Seasons: How to Enjoy the Changing Seasons

Embracing the Changing Seasons: Why It Matters

Well, we have now officially crossed the Rubicon of Labor Day and are approaching the official start of Autumn in less than two weeks. This seasonal change, in particular, is my favorite. There is something about the end of summer and the onset of Fall that speaks to me deeply. The way the sun hits the hillside at a different angle, the very first tentative changing of leaves, and the coolness in the air in the morning and evening

Is there anything better than this time, where we know the heat and the dog days of summer are ebbing away? As I am someone who does not like heat, this thrills me to no end. I look forward to the cooler temperatures, the leaves turning, and wearing sweaters again. Having a nice steaming cup of herbal tea in the evening as I read or watch an atmospheric English murder mystery is also something that helps to usher in the season.

But we still have a few warm days that come during September and October. I know Autumn is coming, and that is good enough for me. I can almost taste it. In fact, today I made a loaf of pumpkin bread with mini chocolate chips, and it was delightful. Although for some reason it stuck to the pan (hence, no photos of said pumpkin bread).

I am adjusting to my life change of being a full-time employee to working part-time. I am embracing the opportunity to tidy up the house, read, handle projects, and sort through things. With Mom's recent passing, this time is proving to be a balm to my soul and allowing me to catch my breath. I am not certain what the future brings, but I did get a part-time job that I do enjoy. So, it gives me a much-needed escape from being alone and with my thoughts.

As autumn is fast approaching, I wanted to share a couple of my recent reads. None of these could really be called autumnal, but they were great for the time leading up to the end of summer.

The Last Devil to Die- Richard Osman

With the recent release of The Thursday Murder Club on Netflix, there has been even more talk about this series. I did read the first book aptly called The Thursday Murder Club, and to be honest, it did not bowl me over. So much so that I skimmed through the last third of the book. But I have spoken to many people who enjoyed the first book. Perhaps I was just not feeling it.

However, this was an entirely different experience. I thoroughly enjoyed The Last Devil to Die, which I believe was the fourth installment of the series. Honestly, I chuckled out loud several times and even wept as well. We are again joined with Elizabeth (former MI6), Ibrahim (former psychologist), Ron (former labor organizer), and, of course, the charming Joyce (former nurse). The book also included the usual cast of supporting characters, including Bogdan, who is a favorite of mine and Elizabeth's husband, Stephen.

This outing finds the group trying to solve the murder of Kuldesh, an antiques dealer. They end up getting embroiled with the illegal drug smuggling players in the southeast corner of England. There is the usual banter with the detectives who are 'working' this case, but not officially. Hilarity ensues as the pensioners handle the investigation with their usual audacity and cunning. Also, be prepared for an emotional component to this particular book, which brought up some recent emotions.

The Lido- A Novel by Libby Page

The other book I read recently, which I picked up at our local Friends of the Library bookstore, is called The Lido - A Novel by Libby Page.

What is a Lido, as I had no idea? But is an open-air swimming pool or beach. Here in the States, this was a name that I was unfamiliar with.

This gem of a book is told from two perspectives: Rosemary Peterson, an octogenarian who grew up in Brixton, London, and Kate Matthews, a twenty-something reporter for the local paper. Roosemary spent her whole life in the Brixton area of London, and in particular, the Lido. The Lido is where she met George, her husband, fell in love, and was married. This place holds the memories of Rosemary's life.

The nemesis of the book is a developer who is trying to gentrify the corner of Brixton. They are working with the local council to buy the Lido and convert it to a private exercise facility. Rosemary and Kate team up to fight to save the Lido. We realize what a significant part of the community the Lido is and how integrally it is tied to Rosemary's life.

Kate, before meeting Rosemary, suffered from anxiety issues, and during the course of the book, they form a wonderful friendship that allows both women to heal

If I had to pick a feel-good favorite this year, I think it may very well be the Lido. It left me feeling uplifted, and I enjoyed the developing friendship with Rosemary and Kate. To watch the two women navigate their own personal hurdles and come out stronger in the end.

I hope Autumn is showing its face to you, wherever you may be. I will be coming up with another post about Autumn and the changes in life and the seasons.

Happy Reading!

Sharon