The Three Trees

We have three trees in a mulch filled island in our backyard. They have grown tremendously over the past seven years. Our backyard went from half shade to full shade this year. These trees are my seasonal gauge.

I can tell you which tree will get its leaves first and the one that hangs on to its leaves the longest. The tree on the far left, sheds its leaves first. Come mid-August it gives me a sign, one leaf turns bright red. It's not two or three leaves, it's just one deep red leaf. The leaf is not located on the backside or nestled somewhere deep inside the branches. It is right out in front, glaring at me, reminding me that fall is just around the corner. I grit my teeth. My first impulse is to quickly remove that leaf and pretend I didn't see it appear. 
 

The tree on the far right hangs on to its leaves way past fall. I relate to this tree. While everyone else is applauding the arrival of fall, I'm kicking and screaming as the morning temperatures begin to drop. I'm not normal, I thrive in summer. Maybe it has something to do with growing up in Florida. I cherish those warm nights, when the humidity is so thick, you can cut it with a knife. I love wearing my skirts, tank tops, and my fish flops. I like greeting the morning on my porch, in shorts and a t-shirt. If I could hug the Equator during the cold months, I would. The Equator, so I've read, has a permanent summer.

The official arrival of Autumn was Wednesday, according to the calendar. Because I  live in what I call paradise, the cold weather will only last approximately three months. Therefore, I hang on to that thought, and set my sights on Spring.