Once again today we’ve had to endure the rustling cornstalks in a cool breeze, an absolutely cloudless blue sky, a vast and distinctly perceptible horizon, diminished commercial traffic, barely traveled roadways, accommodating drivers, honking geese upon the rippled river, and the soothing burden of fresh, dry air. By all accounts this immeasurable weather is forecast to continue for the next week. This is truly the most favourable recollection I have of a so-called “Indian Summer”, a pleasantness which I particularly recall from my youth.

An Indian summer is a period of unseasonably warm, dry weather that sometimes occurs in autumn in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Several sources describe a true Indian summer as not occurring until after the first frost, or more specifically the first “killing frost”.

Whatever the name for this period of manifest beauty, it clearly marks an evanescent summer. Soon – perhaps on the heels of that frost – layers of white snow shall cover the once colourful ground and the erstwhile paint box shall fade away, carrying with it on its whistling wind the memories of a great summer (which this year I pleased to note we punctuated with a jaunt to Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia along the North Atlantic Ocean).

Late this morning as we retreated along the highway from the uncommonly approachable urban source following conclusion of the planned meeting, we mused about where we might lunch. Initially we contemplated the golf club; but then – when reckoning that the golfers would be fully engaged on such a splendid day – opted instead for a roadside food truck on the edge of town.

On a sunny day such as today it is hard to resist the temptation of a broiled burger and fries. We sat outside at one of several picnic tables. The weather was ideal. Mild temperature and no bugs!

Upon completion of our meal, like the two old fogeys we are – that is, learned in the ways of life – we unhesitatingly proffered to one another the choice of donuts from Timmy’s or HFT (Healthy Food Technology). Then followed the heinous crime of indulgence at home. From which we both soon succumbed to an afternoon snooze.

We are now fit to address whatever it is that Nature chooses to render or impose. Today’s business outing together with its whimsical luncheon similarly identify a fugacious pleasure.