Talkin' about Upstate New York

I was born in Wisconsin, but I love New York. Been living here for 52 years. I love the four seasons, although the fourth one isn't always my favorite. You guessed it! Winter. I can say I love the First snowfall, and I know this might sound strange, I love shoveling snow too. And when there's a lot of snow on the ground and I see the kids coming down the long hills on their sleds and saucers, I recall my own childhood times. There is never a year that goes by that I don't hear complaints from people I don't even know like "it's too windy out." My family members have tried to pry me out of this area for way too long, but there is something that keeps me here.

I love Springtime, when the first robin shows up. I'm like a little kid at Christmas when I get to see that first one. Then all the different colored blossoms on the trees, reminding me of a summer/fall harvest taking place in a few months. I love the Lilac Festivals every year - never get sick of the smells nor the purple and pink flowers. And watching the "dead looking" trees come alive again with varieties of green leaves.

Summer can go past too fast. Some days too hot, others not enough. The children popping out of their houses and yelling, like they have not seen grass or trees all year long. School can locate them in their bedrooms and kitchens with homework for way too long during the rest of the year. Most small towns have a farmers' market, where they sell their own organic veggies and fruits. The people that come to buy are such a great variety. Charming. And swimming: in pools and at the beach. Watching sail boats and water skiers. Horseback riding. And the best - an Abbot's Chocolate Almond ice cream cone, while sitting with a friend.

Then there is fall. I always enjoy this time of the year, unless....my mind sneaks in that thought of winter coming soon. Nuts! Fall can sure be spoiled by that little thought. Okay, let's get back to all the vibrant colors, the pumpkins, squashes, apple picking, hay rides, and long walks. Changing our clothes to sweaters and light jackets. Maybe a hat or scarf. Hurry, let's get the painting done, the hose rolled up, the garage straightened up, so the car has room to pull in for snowy days again.

Yes, Upstate New York is an interesting place and I doubt I'll ever leave it, but maybe....