Seasonal shift in the temperate zone

Bear Creek Park is quiet now, with a definite autumnal look that defies the dramatic foliage of a banana tree. Since I took this picture, gardeners have bound its own leaves around the plant to protect it from the coming winter.

Since the umbrella blew off the deck in last week's windstorm, our unusual California-style summer of dry heat has definitely given way to autumn. It's the time of year to exchange clothing between summer and winter closets and put new flannel sheets on the bed.

As the Wallace Stevens poetically inquired,

"Is there no change or death in paradise
Does ripe fruit never fall?"

Oh the joys of seasonal change in the temperate zone.