Tree ablaze with autumn colours, Qualicum Beach

October here is like a painting. Days still warm and sunny, the palette ranges from the rich rippling blues of the Salish Sea to spicy notes of saffron, cinnamon, and hot chili-coloured leaves. The juncos chitter as they gather seeds in their frenetic way.

Qualcum Beach, framing autumn up
Downtown Qualicum Beach, autumn

Walking through town taking photographs, there is a feeling of peace as people saunter about completing errands. The rush of summer has faded. Smiles remain.

At the marina, headed to one of the boats for a visit

At the marina, only a few fishers and the lone security man go about their business. As I pass one boat, the fragrance of soup (it must be) releases itself, hovering over the pier. Later a man emerges from the boat, steaming bowl in hand, to sit on the bow soaking up sunshine and soup. My eye continues to find reflections, shadows, and marine life as I saunter the wharf, reluctant to leave. The fresh, briny air settles as comfortably as the rock-bathing seal.

The Royal Spirit
Late afternoon, French Creek marina in October

While preparing dinner, looking out my kitchen window, the last rays of sun painted the heart-shaped leaves of the Katsura a blazing turmeric. I switch the radio from news to music to better suit the mood mother nature generates. After dinner the sky melts into colours of ripe stone fruit.

how the sky melts

Later, wood smoke whispers from someone’s fireplace on this chilly evening. Stars and planets seem to have been polished against the midnight blue.

Windows still open at night allow me to overhear the Barred Owl’s evening call. Could it be he was simply putting the final flourish on the day’s painting?

I must give credit to author and friend Deborah Carr who wrote a far more beautiful passage on her Facebook page today — I’ve completely stolen her idea to share my own autumn day with you.

2 thoughts on “One Day in October”

  1. Beautiful potpourri of autumnal colors! I love that melting sky with gorgeous color and silhouettes. And what a tranquil marina with those mirror-like reflections.

  2. “After dinner the sky melts into colours of ripe stone fruit.”
    Beautiful post in every way, Diane.

Comments are closed.