It is the first day of September and it is beautiful in Massachusetts. The sun is out and the day is comfortable in the high 70s. One of the things I like to accomplish at this time of year is to make a large batch of chili and to ladle it into small containers to freeze for use throughout the winter.
When I started this practice I made quite a mess of the kitchen. A number of years ago I decided to do it all outside. So the slicing and dicing of tomatoes, onions and peppers, the opening of cans of tomato and beef and chicken, etc., all occurs on the patio. The sauces simmer on the grill and the meats cook on a cast iron skillet on the grill.
The dogs watch me with anticipation, always waiting for something to drop to the ground. It has become a custom, a habit, and something to which I look forward. It also marks the beginning of the work year and the opening of school.
When the snow flies and the fire blazes in the fireplace, and I am sitting there eating a bowl of the chili I prepared on September 1st, I will be glad that I continued the tradition.
I cannot help but think of the squirrels, gathering and storing their nuts for the coming winter. It is time to put out all my bird feeders so I can enjoy watching them feast during the lean months. It is uplifting to see a blue bird or a cardinal getting sustenance from my bird feeders while the snow flies.
The seasons bring wonderful changes into our lives. I am ever so grateful to live somewhere that the four distinct seasons can be enjoyed.
Summer is over. Fall has arrived. Winter will soon be upon us.
No comments:
Post a Comment