As I stepped outside this mid-August morning to let my dog Cooper, my favorite being on the planet out for his morning relief, I caught the first feel of crisp and invigorating morning air. While I suspect that we haven’t heard the last of the buzz of the cicadas—famously known as “heat bugs” due to their habit of sounding off during the hottest hours of summer days—autumn is drawing closer. Lifelong New Englanders adapt as we go, welcoming each season with arms flung wide open.

This month’s theme of Creative Expression has sparked anew my appreciation for the awesome creative power of nature in its seemingly infinite forms. The purest work of the Universe, natural miracles of invention surround us throughout our lives and contribute to all we can ever potentially create for ourselves, though we dare to call it our own.

Although I always appreciate autumn’s splendors, this year I look forward to embracing more of the season’s endless palette of flawless colors, starting with those dressing the trees. They make a lush backdrop for the countless amateurs and professionals framing photographs, painting landscapes and sketching the wonders as an expressed hint of what’s stirred within. 

Cooler days and nights also bring out cozy sweaters, the scent of fireplaces burning bright and harvest festivals replete with corn mazes, pumpkin carving and apple picking. Nature’s bounty in New England supplies materials perfect for acts of creation. We invite you to dream and “Explore Your Creative Side” with artful activities that make the most of our community. Friends and neighbors are ready to help you dream of fresh possibilities and have fun doing it.

Here are links to a few ideas that may stir something in you:

September 9: 20^th Annual Cambridge Carnival International lights up Kendall Square. CambridgeCarnival.org

September 15: Providence Waterfire embroiders three rivers with food, music and street performances. WaterFire.org

September 15: The 4^th Annual Open Lighthouse Day illuminates maritime history and local art. Tinyurl.com/MaineLighthouseDay

September 22 & 23: Life is Good Festival music fundraiser for family fun at Prowse Farm, in Canton, benefits kids in need.

LifeIsGood.com/festival

Here’s to enjoying autumn to its fullest,

Maisie Raftery, Publisher