More Pumpkin ... Less Sun

'Tis the season ...

Or so craft stores would have us believe. Rows and rows of pumpkins, leaves, scarecrows, and fall decorations line the aisles and make us wish for sweaters, boots, and a chai latte. Or is that just me?
But, you guys, it's August. Back in Texas, there would be no signs of fall anywhere. It's still in the 100s with no break in sight down there. Here in Tennessee, things are milder, but our heat index was still up there today. And yet, I pulled up my wilted green bean plants the other day because they weren't really producing anymore. Out of about ten plants, I got five pints, so not too bad for a first year. I might get two or three more squash. My sunflowers are pretty much picked over by the birds. I have two orange pumpkins, two more turning, and another big green one. We are still getting some tomatoes, and I definitely can't complain about that -- my favorite. But I'm not sure about that one carrot that just keeps hanging on but not really getting any bigger.
Yes. Summer is winding down. It's almost time for my birthday. School is back in session here. I've caught a glimpse of just a few colored leaves on some of the trees on our street and can hardly believe it. How can summer already be gone?
Are you ready? Are you like me, chomping at the bit, ready to do all things pumpkin? Or are you holding on tight to those last sunshine-filled days, looking for one more swim or one more baseball game or one more family trip? Each season has its own blessings. Are you treasuring the ones you're in, or longing (like a craft store for the next two holidays) for what comes next?