Autumn in the air

Autumn is in the air. It’s still unbearably hot in the sun during the day, the ceiling fans are still whirring over head, but the seasons are undeniably changing.

There’s the constant smell of smoke that pervades the countryside at this time of year, as the contadini prepare the olive groves for the upcoming harvest. The grapes are dark and heavy on the vines and getting sweeter and more concentrated each day to ensure the primitivo wine will be dark red and alcoholic. All around leaves are beginning to turn brown and fall - fig trees that were so recently lush and green and laden with fruit will soon become barren.

Growing up in England, I never really liked autumn. It was the sad season, which although could be quite pleasant in itself was always overshadowed by the endless winter months ahead.

Yet here in southern Italy, autumn brings a relief from another hot, dry summer. Not a drop of rain has fallen on our house since the middle of May. This afternoon a large, rumbling rain cloud loomed in the background and seemed to be coming our way but while they enjoyed the first heavy rain for months only 2km away, we were left parched as ever.

At this time of year, while I look forward to snuggling up under warm covers at night, and tucking into warming broths and stews, it’s easy to forget how lovely summer is. Sunshine and swimming are so good for the body and soul and the long, lazy days allow for late, lively nights.

I guess it all goes to show that I am happiest living somewhere with seasons, too much of any type of weather gets boring after a while. And right now we are all praying for rain to officially mark the coming of autumn.