Fall is back

From Fall at the Chetif Moulin

The clocks have been turned back, pushing the short fall a step closer to winter. Paul and Roselyne, the friendly gardeners, have cut all the flowers right back and soon they will begin to prune the trees. Then, in late November, it will be time to plant Gabriel's tree. Things are starting to shut down for the winter here at the Chetif Moulin.

From Fall at the Chetif Moulin

Every season brings something special to the Sancerrois, and fall is certainly no exception. The vineyards fill with vendangeurs picking grapes for the new vintage, leaves turn brown, and the air starts to smell of burning leaves and branches.

From Fall at the Chetif Moulin

This has been a nice fall season. It started with Gabriel's first visit to the country pad; Mimi was still here and she played with me on the slide. Later, daddy took me out to pick apples and Clarita took them to make us a nice compote which mommy and daddy ate with Boudin Noir (yes, people eat that here).

From Fall at the Chetif Moulin

The sun has paid us a lengthy visit, as have a number of friends from around the world. We've really amortized the grill this month. Most recently, Poppy and James came by to share what might be our last barbecue of 2008. Now it's cleaned and stored awaiting the enthusiasm of spring.

But for now it's falling leaves and chestnuts. It's time for staying indoors on short days and cooking fattening treats (like the chocolate macarons that daddy made the other week). Time for blue and purple flowers. The cows will soon stop grazing and switch to a strict winter diet of hay. Gabriel is in for his first cozy winter in the Chetif Moulin.

From Fall at the Chetif Moulin

Right now, I'm running a terrible fever and am far from feeling myself. But I pick up knowing that soon the Christmas lights on the rue Lecourbe will be turned on, ushering in my third holiday season.

From Fall at the Chetif Moulin

Check out some autumnal splendor here: Time for tweed