monday's mulling: the farm, the hunter's moon, and one of my dogs

Tuesday is my last day working at the farm, which closes for the season on October 31. Sigh. It’s a bittersweet time of year.

I’ll miss the camaraderie of my workmates and bosses, chatting with customers, watching the seasons change, and being surrounded by fresh vegetables and fresh air. I’ll miss picking vegetables, too, and most of all, the sense of peace I find in that place. There’s something special about working close to the earth, watching the days grow shorter, and feeling the rhythm of the seasons.

Until next year...

Speaking of the changing seasons, tonight’s full moon is known as the Hunter's Moon. The first full moon of autumn is the Harvest Moon, traditionally associated with gathering the last of the crops. The next full moon, the Hunter’s Moon, takes its name from the time of year when people prepared for the coming winter by hunting and storing meat.

Photo: Meteorologist Nick Dunn, WHIO

For me, the Hunter’s Moon also brings a happy memory. Whenever it appears, I can’t help thinking about my sweet, goofy chocolate Lab, Hunter.

Hunter came into our lives as a puppy when my daughter was attending summer school at Miami University. She and a friend thought having a dog at school would be a wonderful idea. What they hadn’t thought of was their house leases included a no-pets clause and so little puppy Hunter came to Dayton to live with us.

He quickly became a beloved member of our family and was with us for 12 wonderful years. He brought us so much love, laughter, and companionship, and this full moon that bears his name brings back memories my goofy boy.

Autumn settles in, the farm closes its doors for another season, the nights grow colder, and the Hunter’s Moon lights up the sky. This time of year holds endings, memories, and the promise of beginnings yet to come.