How is it that October is here already? Despite a very odd 2020, time has continued to move forward at a rapid pace. At least, that is how I feel. The weather today has been odd, almost as odd as the year has been itself. It’s rained, hailed, been overcast, had dark storm clouds, bright sunshine, and even a partial rainbow.
Actually, I like all kinds of weather but having many different types of precipitation and clouds all in one day feels like mother nature, herself, is confused.
On a trip to Kauai in 2013, we travelled to a hike in only beach. When we got there by traversing narrow trails perched high above the water with pods of dolphins standing guard, many signs informed us of the danger of the surf hitting the shores of that beach. It was a place where a dangerous rip-tide could easily pull you under so swimming was prohibited. A wide stream of fresh mountain water also drained on to the lava rocks at the intersection of the beach and the ocean. The locals called this place, “where the water is confused.” Just one look at the infighting amongst the currents would tell you why. Still, it was cool to be able to see the place fresh water mixed with the salty ocean water. Although it was July, hot, and humid on the wild-jungle side of the island, known as the Napili coast, we did not swim. It even looked dangerous.
Although the sky did not look dangerous today, it certainly looked mixed up. Despite this, October is a month I am very fond of. It is usually very beautiful and festive. One of my children and I share birthdays during this month. But, it is definitely a time of transition. It can be 40 degrees as easily as it can be 80, but is usually in between. Darkness invades our dinner hour during this month. Tractors can be seen in the fields during the late afternoon and early evening hours hours of dusk and darkness, turning their lights on to illuminate their paths through the rows of corn and soybean. Corn shocks and pumpkins and mums line the entrances to both stores and homes.
Being confused as become a symbol of 2020. We are receiving mixed messages from normally trusted sources, our government, our health care providers, and our educational systems. It is in a word, disheartening. So, why shouldn’t our October skies appear confused? It just fits with life as we are experiencing it now.
The Apples in My Orchard 
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