Autumn Days

Sometimes I miss the woods for the trees; that’s how I felt this morning when I took the drive along the banks of the Breë River from Worcester to Rawsonville. For me, Rawsonville has never appealed aesthetically; it’s a cliquey, conservative, one-horse town with a shady past and a bleak future.  Here they hold the record for the most brandy consumed in the world.  I know that’s presumptuous and totally uncalled for, but that’s the way it is.  I wonder if it even cracks a dot on a map.

As I drive through the yellow vineyards, some of what I say still holds, but on closer inspection there are many beautiful characteristics, farms and homesteads with gardens that take my breath away.   Labourers' waves are friendly, and the people I know who hail from here are wonderful, kind and generous. I feel grateful for these connections that make this place special.

At the right time of day and season, there are several redeeming features.  Today I noticed the trees: large, ancient English Oaks, Liquid Ambers, Japanese Maples, and poplar trees.  I love the yellow leaves which cover the earth in a carpet of gold, bronze and copper. I hope you also find joy in these seasonal changes that remind us of nature's beauty. 

Walking through a small forest of trees, I couldn’t help but wonder about the thick mulch of leaves and how many layers have fallen there.  Imagine the stories hidden amongst the discarded wine bottles, pieces of paper, chicken bones, and paper cups I noticed along the banks of the little stream.   We litter and pollute the earth in the most unlikely places, don’t we?  This place of mysteries, murders, and madness deserves our care and respect.

Today I found the leaves and trees, the bark and vineyards too beautiful to resist.   I've finally figured out why this year is such an extraordinary autumn for me, only to realise we’re often in the bush now and I usually miss our Cape autumns.  

The Herb Club ladies' spring roll workshop was lively, filled with laughter and stories, showcasing our shared love for herbs, good food, and community.

Now I can wander through the garden at peace.

http://maricha.co.za/blogs/post/hot-chick-spicing-up-the-kitchen