Fall Has Fallen
   Here in the Pacific Northwest, the change of seasons is in full swing.  The furnace is coming on early every morning, and darkness arrives earlier and earlier each week.  Leaves began turning color not long ago, and now are drifting off the trees as they dry out.
                                                 

   This photograph was taken on a Vancouver, BC street in 2012, not far from the waterfront.  Amid the glass-fronted buildings, this maple tree in full fall hue was a great example of what inspires the main design feature on Canada's national flag. 
   I'd like to head back north of the border again, but that will be another year.  I've got dozens of fleece blankets to sew for the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, and a baby grandson [born this past June] to watch over for several months when his mom returns to her teaching post at the end of October. 
   South Dakota has transitioned from screaming heat and flooding to nearly-freezing temperatures at night.  Folks without adequate sources of heat are in need of blankets and other warm clothing.  I am warm and clothed and in a position to help.  Time to create more blankets!