STORY OF THE MONTH
SO MANY MOMENTS, SO MANY MEMORIES
SAVOR THE MOMENTS, TREASURE THE MEMORIES

Al Koch
August 2025

JANUARY
January believes it has squatter’s rights to the calendar because it is first in line. With a full month of thirty-one days, the first holiday of the year--New Year’s Day, and its menu of weather-related entrees, who can argue with such chronoscopic arrogance? Named after Janus, a Roman god of beginnings and endings, openings and closings; Janus is always portrayed as having two faces, one looking forward, one backward. January is his month because it is the time when the sun starts to return. He is the doorkeeper who watches over the entrance or beginning of the year.

Part of January’s prominence is due to the ritual of formulating one’s personal intentions and plans for the New Year. Amid celebrations with noisemakers, confetti, and renditions of Auld Lang Syne at midnight, people across the globe usher in the latest allotment of days by making resolutions, commitments, and hopeful toasts for laughter, love, good health and good fortune. Party hats and glasses filled with libation complete a resume worthy of January’s namesake. Such frenzy at the start of a New Year, looking both forward and backward is enough to give a Roman god whiplash.

But January is more than just a party and pretty faces. It is a time when winter displays its full strength and control of all living things. Freezing temperatures, icy roads, cold gloomy days, crystal clear dark nights and occasional visits of bright sunshine fill this initial cluster of days. Zodiac partners for the first month are Capricorn and Aquarius, depicted as goat and water bearers respectively.  January’s birthstone is regal Garnet, symbolizing trust and Loyalty.

January is both predictable and unpredictable. As the earth continues to orbit around the sun, daylight lengthens—first by a stingy few minutes, then, toward the end of the month, more generously. But January exacts a price for this additional sunlight by delivering only brightness while holding back on warmth. And just to remind us of its adventurous nature, January whips up, on a moment’s notice, icy soufflés, snow drifts, and pellets of crystalized rain that cover cars, coats, and roadways with an abundance of “freezy” skid-stuff which challenge both ambulatory and driving skills.

 January’s precocious behavior keeps insurance agents and body shops well supplied with patrons who literally meet by accident. All these fender benders make Janus smile. Rumor has it that January invented wind chill. This is one month that is forever trying to stay young, with its thermometer readings usually in the teens or twenties. At times it regresses to single digits and below zero to display a total disregard for maturity. And every now and then, just for laughs—a blizzard! For comfort, January promotes love and affection with carnations and snowdrops.

If January wants a little more respect, it should change its ways by offering an annual Tax Freeze—and forget about the ice and snow. Being the time when we receive our W-2’s doesn’t do much either. But for those of us who celebrate their birthday in January, either Capricorn or Aquarius--we wholeheartedly appreciate the antics of this month. It is difficult to explain, but January makes us smile.

To inhabitants who live forty-two degrees North Latitude, January is “add-an-extra-blanket” month, turn up the thermostat time, put on layers of flannel and get dressed before going to bed. Cuddling and snuggling is mandatory nightly behavior. January is a steaming hot cup of coffee before dawn, hot soup at lunch, and suppers served on heated plates. January is scurrying from store to warm car, and from car to warm house. January is when shoppers use extra gas searching for a landing zone closer to the mall’s entrance and avoiding shopping carts haphazardly abandoned in parking lot aisles. January is watching wildlife enjoy the bounty at feeders you keep filled. January is when school kids return to classrooms and moms regain the sanity of the daily routine. January is when everyone considers heating their garages.

 January is the time when landscapers offer discounts for mower tune-ups and lawn care service. January is finding the courage to face both darkness and cold fetching the morning paper, setting out the trash and letting Fido do his business. It’s also a time when residents battle nasty conditions taking down outdoor Christmas decorations.          

January is chapped lips, dry skin, red noses, watery eyes, cold feet and chilled bodies. January holds mystery why kids are impervious to frigid temperatures, revel in the snow, enjoy sliding on ice, and rarely have their scarf tied or jacket fully zipped; while seasoned human units hunker down, stooped shouldered shivering to keep warm. January is a geriatric obstacle course. January is wool hats, mittens, and boots. January teases and taunts one to move to lower latitudes. 

By the end of the first thirty-one days, January is pretty much spent and willingly turns things over to February. As daylight increases, January’s envious look knows there will never be a request to serve another monthly term.

FEBRUARY

February has always been the runt of the calendar. Beginning with the reign of King Numa Pompilius, (753-673 BC), the second king of Rome; and both Julius and Augustus Caesar, February has been included, demoted and promoted to fill out the required number of days in a year. Because the Roman Senate chose to honor the Caesar cousins, the months of Quintillis and Sextillis were re-named July and August respectively with an equal number of days; February’s (Februarius) allotment was “adjusted” to appease royal egos: ever after to be 28.

After additional calculations to improve the accuracy of Numa’s twelve lunar cycles--and to bring mathematical and astronomical harmony to the Roman calendar, February was compensated with one additional “Leap Year” day every four years. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar which refined the Julian calendar (Julius Caesar) in use since 46 B.C. It standardized the number of days in a year and defined the formula and calculation for both Easter Sunday and leap year.

There is unparalleled admiration for February. Forty-one days into winter, the year’s second month offers opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activities: basketball and hockey season are in full bloom, and when the weatherman gets creative, there is sledding, skating, and shoveling. One of the most welcomed attributes of February is that hours of daylight increase as the earth spins and orbits toward spring. February begins by honoring a ground hog in Pennsylvania, who prognosticates the end of winter. In Whiting, Indiana, that tribute is celebrated with the annual Ground Hog Gala.  A highlight for attendees is having their picture taken with someone dressed in a ground hog costume. (The identity of charming woodchuck is a closely guarded secret).  As alluring as this event is, the most attractive feature, right in the middle of the month, is Valentine’s Day: February’s invitation for romantics of all ages to express unabashed affection and love focused on matters of the heart.

We give and receive gifts that mark special occasions, but as one matures, we realize the most meaningful gifts are things we cannot touch. How can this be? Early on, we learn to value things and to convey appropriate thankfulness and love. Too often, we use the word love like a one-size-fits-all garment. But as we go through life, we learn that there are degrees and varieties of love. And within the nucleus of love, there is a core ingredient, an element that is often neglected: appreciation. Appreciation is the emotional catalyst that revitalizes and energizes endearment and mutual admiration. Better than chocolate, appreciation is the whipped cream topping on the cup of kindness.  And for the stargazers and Mythology patrons who follow the Zodiac signs of Aquarius and Pisces—the water bearer and paired fishes swimming in opposite direction convey survival of the spirit. Violet and Primrose reign with birthstone Amethyst.

Expressing appreciation is a symphony for the spirit. It recognizes the quality of character and personal regard we hold for one another. Appreciation can be rendered by words, touch, body language and loving eyes. It is the invisible connection we use to bond family, friendships and relationships. Regardless of age or station in life the refulgent reinforcement garnered by both giver and receiver enrich self-worth, gladden the heart, and nourish human interaction.

Ideally, every day should be Valentine Appreciation Day. Is it me, or does there seem to be a shortage of appreciation? Each day provides countless opportunities to express one’s gratitude for another’s consideration, kindness, courtesy and thoughtfulness. But for unexplained reasons, we often neglect taking advantage of these emotionally nourishing moments. Every display of human pleasantry should be welcomed, recognized and acknowledged as we go through the day. Dispensing appreciation makes hearts smile and spirits’ soar.

MARCH
For a month that used to be Number 1 and then reassigned to the third spot, March has adjusted remarkably well.  Before 150 BC, the Roman Calendar year began with March ushering in the new year.  Named for the Latin Martius—aka Mars, the Roman god of war. The primary purpose of March was to celebrate the transformation of the seasons from winter to spring.

In 45 BC, Julius Caesar introduced a solar calendar that was in use for more than 1600 years.  Although it had inaccuracies, the Julian Calendar introduced the world to the Leap Year every 4 years.  Years later because it wasn’t perfectly aligned with the Earth’s orbit the calendar was adjusted to be in harmony with the seasons. Finally, in 1582, writing a papal encyclical Inter Gravissimas, Pope Gregory XIII sanctioned a calendar that corrected previous inaccuracies, especially regarding the calculation of Easter.  Easter Sunday is the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the spring Equinox.  The Spring equinox is traditionally set as March 21.

To help compensate March for giving up the top spot of the calendar for its current rank, March was given two birthstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone. Aquamarine honors sailors who brave the high seas and believed aquamarine brought them good luck. Bloodstone is a symbol of bravery and vitality. Save for Julius Caesar and the Ides of March.

March created a reputation of being changeable, In like a lion, out like a lamb or vice versa.  March welcome spring’s sunshine and the annual display of dandelions.  Warm spring rains deliver needed moisture to re-energize buds dormant during the cold winter months.

March is intoxicated with mischief.  One day you’re wearing short sleeves enjoying the outdoors; the next day you’re bundled up and looking for ice-melt and trying to keep from slipping on sleeted walkways. Observing all these gyrations makes March giggle.

Amid the Depression, the game Monopoly was invented on March 7, 1933. As kids, we spent hours rolling the dice, traversing the Monopoly Board with our favorite token/piece: boot, top hat, Scottie dog, thimble, iron, and battleship. Along with buying properties, utilities, and railroads, players tried to keep out of jail, land on Free Parking, and hopefully choose a friendly card of CHANCE or COMMUNITY CHEST.  Monopoly was a perfect fit for the month of March.

Already, March had a monopoly on late-winter snow, and pre-spring weather, and so much more. March is the beginning of Daylight-Saving Time, and the “madness” of the annual collegiate basketball tournament.  March dares you to shop at nurseys for spring plants.   March shares the Zodiac with Aires, the Ram, and Pisces, the Fish.  March is the host of Mardi Gras. The celebration before Lent’s 40 days of self-discipline, prayer, and preparation for April’s Holy Week and Easter.  March confers the Irish spirit on everyone celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

The blustery winds of March hold the patent on “Bad Hair Days.”  March is the official beginning of “Spring Cleaning,” where homeowners across the land tidy-up both interiors and exteriors of hearth and home following the winter season.   March seems to favor pairs. In addition to two birthstones, March has two flowers: Daffodils and Jonquils.  March teases knowing that all Jonquils are Daffodils, but not all Daffodils are Jonquils.   Each one has its own meaning: Daffodils represent Rebirth and Hope; Jonquils represent Affection and Love.  Both flowers’ meaning is based on Greek Mythology named after Narcissus, son of river god Cephissus.  Star signs of Pisces and Aries symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.

 The 31 days of March offer a smorgasbord of weather, hours, and events to satisfy even the most finnicky patron. With all its variety, hectic schedules, and timely events, the third month of the year energizes and encourages all living creatures great and small to be on the move   Maybe this month should be re-named RUN instead of MARCH!

APRIL

After the first day of foolery, practical jokes, and silly pranks, April gets down to business as springtime’s major contributor to a new season of growth and abundance.  In concert with all living things, April sings its anthem: “April showers bring May flowers.”  This fourth month of the year was named “Aperire” meaning to open.  Flora and Fauna of every variety and specie echo April’s call, especially the Daisy and Sweetpea, symbol of innocence, gratitude, and purity.

Nest building of every description begins in earnest as wildlife prepares for a new generation not yet born.  Aires and Tarus partner up and add to the Zodiac family.  Days of April prepare for the closing days of Lent, Holy Week, and the Christian Holy Day of Easter that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Jewish Holy Day of Passover commemorates the Hebrew liberation from slavery.

To emphasize its pedigree to the calendar’s other months, April chose the Diamond as its birthstone. Over the years, songs and poems have been written about April’s idyllic role nourishing propinquity, romance, and love.

Mid-way through the month, April schedules Spring Break. A full week of party! party! party!  Thousands of college students travel to Florida and sunny beaches throughout the USA for fun and frolic. Sun bunnies and beachcombers set aside studies and engage in more desirable social activities.  During spring break, Guardian Angels are on duty 24/7 until everyone is back safe and secure in their campus dorm.  Ironically, April is Stress Awareness month. Most parents, however, think every month is stress awareness month. Apropos are April’s Zodiacs Aries, the Lamb, and Tarus, the Bull.

April closes out its 30-day month knowing it has fulfilled its assignment to give spring a good start.  By this time, lawn mowers, edgers, and weed whackers are up and running.  Kids are back in school until summer break, and the garden requires attention every day.  April eases   us into May.  Enjoy the generosity and consideration of April.

MAY

May, named for the Greek goddess Maia and the Roman goddess of fertility, Bona Dea, is the fifth month of the Gregorian calendar. The Zodiac signs of Tarus and Gemini empower strength.

May is also Permission, Possibility, and Wish month: May I? It may rain. “May all good…” May is emerald—emblematic of love and success.

During the thirty-one days of May, landscape vegetation receives permission to bud and bloom. Birds seek sanction to build nests on deciduous and conifer branches; soon young nestlings will add vocals to the aviary chorus. Everywhere sun-drenched blue skies partner with rain clouds to ensure all living things are nourished and sustained. Led by Lily of the Valley, bulbs, roots, and seeds eagerly germinate and send their botanical poetry sunward to show off their growing skills and individuality while fending off pesky wind-chilled temperatures.

The first breath of a May morning causes one’s spirit to soar to heights usually reserved for angels.  Senses savor addictive springtime perfume that complements the sweet nectar of newness; as heartfelt thoughts encourage memories of earlier times, treasured emotions and feelings. Playgrounds and schoolyards kept vacant by winter’s unfriendliness now resound with joyful voices of children’s frolic. A tsunami of exuberant youthful energy floods every location where children and adolescents gather, and countless pairs of sneakers eagerly dance the dance of carefree, pleasurable moments.

As May delivers radiant sunshine, senior residents welcome the soothing warmth for aches and pains earned from years of activities garnered by lifestyle, work, and responsibilities. Compared to younger people, their pace is slower, more deliberate, and limited in duration. But their appreciation and enjoyment of May's weather are unrivaled.

May is spring’s showcase. Baseball diamonds sparkle as athletes of all ages vies for success with the bat, ball, and glove. Other diamonds adorn ring fingers as the symbol of love, passion, engagement, and promise of marriage. Novice romantics nervously begin their quest for happily-ever-after as hand-holding couples enjoy one another’s company drenched with May’s pre-summer sunshine; and, after sunset, share quiet once-upon-a-time moments under a night sky quilted with stars awash in soft saffron moonlight. Seasoned sweethearts share a special togetherness of love strengthened over a lifetime of understanding, give-and-take, change, challenge, and Heaven’s blessings. Families and spouses separated by loss, find comfort and solace offered by the promise of another spring.

Parochial schools May crowning celebrates Roman Catholic devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary with prayers and pageantry. May is high school prom time, when adolescents mark another milestone toward maturity. Formalwear finery is captured in family videos and cameras. May is delivery time for class rings and preparation for Commencement. Compiled in yearbooks and hearts, these memory moments fill personal journals and will be nostalgically remembered at future class reunions. Soon-to-be brides attend to a sundry of arrangements for upcoming June nuptials: final dress fittings, invitations, and balancing emotional issues of family, relatives, and soon-to-be in-laws. May is open-minded to all suggestions: Maybe yes, maybe no.

May signal the fast-approaching end of the school year. For students, this is a time of mixed feelings. Summer school for some, but most grammar students and underclassmen know they’ll return in a few months and re-join classmates for additional lessons, activities, and coursework: some at familiar surroundings, others will transition from elementary grades to middle school; from middle school to high school. For soon-to-graduate seniors, the end of school marks a major change in their life as they are near the threshold of adulthood. Many will decide career choices: college, employment or military service. Commencement for college

Seniors will lead to graduate school or job-search interviews. Familiar routines, new pathways, and uncharted experiences await travelers of life's journey.

May is Mother’s Day: cards, corsages, and calls. A Sunday where “Mom Rules” and receives heartfelt affection and appreciation for all she is and does. May is zodiac birthdays for Taurus and Gemini. May is Memorial Day when our Nation gives pause and remembers citizen soldier heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice defending America's liberty, freedom, and ideals. May is the Indy 500-mile race: “Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines!” These words also serve as a klaxon call for everyone to gear up for summer.           

And a wish: May each day bring you laughter, love, good health and good fortune. May Heaven’s angels guide you every step of the way. May the Good Lord keep you close to Him forever. And may you always find time to share smiles, laughter and kind words with all who touch your life.

JUNE

When the other eleven months of the year get together for a visit, the refer to June as “The Gateway to Summer,” paying homage to the seasonal Solstice. They also acknowledge that during June, romance permeates each of the month’s thirty days.  And for good reason because the sixth month of the year is named after Juno, the Roman goddess of love, and celebrated by Zodiac’s Gemini and Cancer. Both of June’s flowers, Honeysuckle and Rose convey affection, love, and desire, as does June’s birthstone: Pearl.

Without much braggadocio, Gemini are the social butterflies of the Zodiac. They exude spontaneity, curiosity, adventure, and creative playfulness. To offer a bit of emotional balance, Zodiac’s Cancer is known for intuitiveness, family oriented, emotional caregiver for and stives to create cozy, safe spaces that encourage tranquility. June is a Red-Carpet month, promenading its celebrity, choreographing, and embellishing the closing days of spring in concert with the sun’s solstice.

June is anticipation month. It begins by enhancing Spring’s banquet of longer daylight hours, abundant sunshine, warm temperatures, nourishing rain, and the official beginning of summer—the calendar’s Adventureland.

June is reserved for graduations, anniversaries, commencements, weddings, and all matters of the heart. To school children everywhere, June is summer’s Santa Claus welcoming days of fun and frolic at beaches, playgrounds, and sandlots. In younger years, one would hear a crescendo of wooden screen doors applauding as youngsters tested hinges and springs as they ran outside to play. Just for the record, June isn’t all about brides, one Sunday during the month celebrates Father’s Day.  And on June 14, we commemorate the adoption of the Stars and Stripes by the Second Continental Congress in 1777.  National Flag Day was signed into law in 1949, by President Harry Truman After 249 years, the flag of the United States is one of the most recognized and respected symbols of sovereignty, valor, independence, courage, and military strength worldwide.  Seeing the star-spangled banner as it unfurls engenders the principles of freedom, unity, and patriotism

June is family vacation and get-away weekends. Millions of Americans travel camp, visit, and tour by both land and sea.  Cameras capture memorable photos of locations, locals, and tourists alike.  Upon traveler’s return home, procured souvenirs and mementos will fill curio cabinets, albums, display cases, and bookshelves. as reminders of June’s summertime abundance.

JULY

In Hometown America, July arrives with fireworks and skyrockets, parades and patriotic homemade dough-filled pillows of potato, cheese and fillings galore! Smack dab in the middle of the year, July proudly promenades as summertime’s king strutting its royalty with self-assured confidence and attitude. With extraordinary exuberance, July proclaims: “I’m here for the party!”

If your birthdate is in July, Zodiac’s Cancer and Leo are your astrological partners. Leo’s are passionate, loyal, cultivate friendships and romance. Partnering with Cancer’s affinity to find cozy, safe, tranquil, and places, these two Zodiacs become an astrological dynamic duet.

This year, July is extra playful as it presents five Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and a plethora of summertime opportunities for all who relish the season of solstice. July is bathing suit display month, a time when swimming pools and lakes entice youthful beachcombers and sun bunnies to savor the exhilarating enjoyment of splash, sun and sand.

On the Fourth of July, the United States of America celebrates the 1776 Declaration of Independence from England., by parades, festivities, and fireworks, throughout the Land. For a few brief shining hours, the Stars and Stripes are taken out of closets and attics and prominently displayed throughout the community. Whether public or private, July affords opportunity to celebrate our sovereign Independence, our Democratic Republic system of government, and the spirit of America. From border to border, shore-to-shore, Americans pay homage to all who have fallen, served, fought, sacrificed, and protected Constitutional Rights of personal liberty, freedom, independence, and sovereignty. How fitting it would be for citizens to show added respect for America by flying the flag every day!

Although June presents the solstice, July exploits and takes full control of summer; casual, comfortable fashions become the norm: flip-flops, tank tops, T-shirts, light-airy fabrics, and a variety of clothing that encourage sunburn and tans from head to toe. Sunglasses and floppy hats become part of the uniform at malls, recreation events, and everyday routine tasks. From garages and carports, convertibles, motorcycles, and sun-roofed vehicles glide down streets in celebration of summer. Lawn mowers, weed-whackers, trimmers, and edgers, join the chorus of gas-powered motors as residents cut and prune landscapes to desired standards. Insects thrive; birds gorge themselves, feeding their young with the latest supply of food on the wing. Mosquitoes fortunate enough to escape hungry feathered hunters find outdoor residents to pester at picnics, playgrounds, and parks. During July, the sale of insect repellent, bug spray and fly swatters skyrockets!

One of July’s main objectives is to make August jealous. As each sun-drenched, hot, humid day arrives, July is already planning for what follows: late hour sunsets that paint the horizon with crimson and ruby rays of the setting sun, evenings flooded with moonlight and nighttime skies quilted with stars. And, as an added attraction, July serves up an occasional shower of cleansing raindrops that wash and renew the landscape. July challenges air conditioners to keep perspiration and tempers at tolerable levels while providing ideal conditions for garage sales, car washes, baseball, and all things afforded by summer. July knows how to heat highway roadbeds, sidewalks, and driveways. Bare feet are wary of hot concrete, asphalt and beach sand. But this is the season to be outdoors, residents and creatures alike, take necessary precautions to thoroughly enjoy July’s thirty-one days.

July is a month that changes moments to memories: vacations, family, events, happenings, and the magical transformation when strangers become more than friends. Watching romantics hold hands, sharing laughter and smiles as they watch the 4th’s parade or stroll Pierogi Fest, makes those of us who are ancient, recall days of once-upon-a-time when youthful energy seems almost endless, and we seemed invincible to problems or vexations of the spirit. July was the elixir, the nectar that sweetened youthful days beyond words.

AUGUST

Already the days are noticeably shorter. Too quickly, the long daylight hours of June and July have been tucked away for another year, challenging August to cram its annual allotment of summertime into limited hours. The challenge is willingly accepted. August is the playboy of the seasons—summer’s trump card. In August, the sun turns up the heat a few more notches, broiling sidewalks, drying lawns, and toasting suntanned faces to well done. As unpredictable as the CUBS’ relief pitching, August features surprise thunderstorms that suspend picnics, halt outdoor chores, and disrupt a much-needed late-inning rally at Wrigley Field.

 Summer saves all its extra humidity for August. Generously, like an intoxicated tycoon, August dispenses soggy, saturated air at will, wilting hairdos, wrinkling suits, and eroding tolerance—fraying temperature-sensitive nerves. August is the host month for the year’s annual wheeze-and-sneeze Olympics, as plants of every persuasion gleefully release their bounty of pollen. Land-locked citizens procure copious amounts of Kleenex and hankies to stem the flood of draining sinuses. So often there are tissues and handkerchiefs in evidence, it appears that the natives are under a flag of surrender.

August is equal opportunity aggravation. Our eighth month also generates mixed reviews for it summertime efforts. While the simmering late-summer sun bakes highways, overheating cars and drivers alike, sun bunnies and bronzed beach boys celebrate sand and turf. August can be tranquil or turmoil. On any given day, one must be wary of one’s changeable personality.  August is summer’s impersonation of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Such shenanigans engender smiles from Leo and Virgo, astrological monitors of August.

If there are dog days in August—sapping strength from all who labor in its heat—then August nights are reserved for those seeking respite from those labors. When evening arrives, August puts on its best behavior. Like a Politician currying favor, August provides caressing breezes, star-filled skies and then dazzles the landscape with incandescent moonlight. August encourages lovers to share magic moments. August knows romance.

So enamored with itself, August has three birthstones: Peridot, Spinel and Sardony. Under the watchful astrological vision of Leo and Virgo, August welcomes weddings adorned with its favorite flowers: Gladiolus and bouquets of pink, red, and yellow Poppy.  Such floral elegance conveys wealth, success, and strength.

There are occasions, though, when August forgets. Several times during its 31-day engagement, August neglects to lower nighttime temperatures, causing untold discomfort to both man and beast. When that happens, citizens retreat inside where purring air-conditioners compensate for the oversight, leaving the sultry outdoors to wildlife more accustomed to such fare. Power companies love August.

August is summer’s last hurrah before the holiday finale, Labor Day. By this time, schools are back in session. August has become a conflict of interest. On one hand, kids strive to gear up for classes while August teases them with delicious late-summer weather. Moms scurry store-to-store to prepare their children for the new school year. Almost imperceptibly, changes occur. Put away for another season are beach towels, bathing suits, and suntan oils. In their place come haircuts, daily showers, clean clothes, brushed teeth, and school. And as with every passage in life, there remains a sweet sadness poignantly tugging at the heart to accept change.

Memories of this geriatric writer of August’s past fill scrapbooks pages that only the heart can see. Carefree times in hometown Whiting, at playgrounds and parks, shagging fly balls at Standard Diamonds hit so high it was like following a white dot across a cloudless blue sky. Hours spent sitting on the curb at 117th and Ohio Avenue (the absolute limit of permitted distance away from his Oliver Steet home for the second grader), waving to the engineer as the train roared along the Pennsylvania tracks, with whistle sounding, smoke billowing, and ejected cinders from the engine’s coal-fed firebox filling the sky.  Mischief-loving elementary boys often pilfered chunks of crystal-clear ice from the ice-wagon with neighborhood buddies, while the deliveryman toted the tong-held block of ice on his leather-covered shoulder to his customer’s second-floor flat.

A whole host of August forget-me-nots flood the mind from childhood, adolescence, and adulthood past, filled with beginning, endings, and all things in between. August engenders admiration, reverence, respect, melancholy, eminence and awe.  August is a month for all seasons of the human spirit. Remembering the Standard Oil Refinery fire in 1955, topping the list.

SEPTEMBER

If a year has such a thing as middle age, then September qualifies. No other month comes along with such an inventory of seasonal goodies. September is also a month with an attitude. It is both an ending and beginning. Labor Day officially closes out summer vacation and leads the way back to school. For countless students, in the 40s, 50s, and 60s, September signaled the start of a new year, a clean slate. It was the calendar’s “All is forgiven” greeting card for kids who needed another chance to learn, grow, and live.

Originally, September, or Septum, was the seventh month of the Old Roman calendar under the watchful Roman god Vulcan.  The astrological pairing of Virgo and Libra enhances the symbolism of September’s birthstones: Sapphire’s and Moonstone’s reputation of sincerity, truth, faithfulness, trust, and emotional balance.  Completing the regalness of September are the floral favorites: Aster and Morning Glory.

September is prelude to autumn, when leaves begin their annual journey from branch to lawn. Like an elegant movie star, September dawn takes longer to present her radiance, making the early bird wish he had a flashlight.

September is apron string loosening month, as teary-eyed moms send little ones off to their first day of school. September is collegians back on campus—attending classes (hopefully), adjusting to dorm food (supplemented by fast food runs) and pursuing extra-curricular activities that keep legions of guardian angels working 24/7. September is stocking up on allergy pills and tissue. It is summer’s last call for suntan lotion and beach blanket bingo.

September is when the sun previews its fall colors and shows off its new wardrobe in rainbows, leaves, and early autumn sunsets. September is a long football weekend with a few baseball games in between. It is Friday night after the game- sock hops where teenagers fill high school scrapbooks with moments to remember. September is sigh-of-relief time for moms, as kids return to classrooms. September means routine schedules, alarm clocks, and get-your-act-together.

September brings an end to summer re-runs, both on television and at home. The new season means early get-ups. September is morning traffic jams in the bathroom, chaos in the kitchen: “Where’s my lunch?” “I can’t find my books!” “Did anyone see my other shoe?” Clock radios are scolded for disrupting sleepy human units who cannot believe it’s time to wake up. September is the year’s way of telling everyone that summer camp is over! September weekdays take their sweet time moving along; its weekends seem so far away yet fly by when they arrive.

September splashes colors around like playful children finger-painting. For 30 delicious days, the calendar slips into casual clothes and settles back, putting the year on cruise control and gliding into autumn. September is contented brilliance; it wears a smile so bright it could ripen bananas. It signals mums begin their parade of blossoms, decorating landscapes. September calls yellow jackets to their annual conventions, buzzing natives at every opportunity, causing arms to flail, newspapers to swing, and sales of Raid to skyrocket!

September ushers in the waning laps of the lawn maintenance marathon; a few more mulching entrees for the mower, and then, a welcomed rest parked next to the snowblower.   September is “Wait’ll next year” for Honey-do projects not begun.  September is maybe month: “Maybe I’ll clean the garage, and maybe I won’t.”  “Maybe I’ll paint the fence, or maybe I’ll wait ‘til spring.”  Spring wins.

September is grandparents baby-sitting their grandchildren so working parents can get ahead. September is dad playing catch with his son, neighborhood kids shooting hoops, and sandlot football on Sunday with the guys. September is looking at vacation photos, summertime snapshots, iPhone pictures, videos from family get-togethers, class reunions, and sharing with friends.

September is remembering parents, classmates, and friends. September is savoring summer’s past: drive-in movies, convertibles, cruising, and submarine races as Bobby Beach.  September is birthdays, anniversaries, football homecomings, and a happily-ever-after first date. September is the lead chapter of everyone’s yearbook. September is mirth and melancholy. It is being alone in the night, gazing at stars, and awed by the vastness of the heavens. September is walking in the moonlight, holding hands with a special someone. September is peaceful easy feelings, porch swings, lawn chairs, and being with those you love. All the best to Virgo and Libra who celebrate September.

 September is more than a collection of days. September is a song. September is mischievous; it winks teasingly one last time at suntanned faces as they march to school, unable to join in September’s fun and games. September is warm rain and cool evening breezes. September is like a faithful friend; the welcome mat is always on display, fresh coffee is brewing, and if you’re late, September will leave a light on for you.

September knows beginnings, endings, and everything in between. Most of all, September understands a year is a long time and that there needs to be a respite—an oasis—along the way. Ages ago, September decided to be the calendar’s rest stop—part Disneyland, part National Park, and part meadow by a quiet stream. Enjoy September. 

OCTOBER

You’d think that any month holding title to eighth place and then unceremoniously moved down to number ten would be resentful, not October. Despite the calendar shenanigans of Julius and Augustus Caesar, October accepted its new position in the solar line-up in the tenth spot and embellished its allotment of thirty-one days with exuberance and enthusiasm.

As a full-fledged member of autumn’s sweet-sad season, October brims with delicacies left over from summer’s frivolity as well as presenting its special menu of prepared entrees. Teasing everyone and everything with occasional flashbacks of sun-drenched beach parties, October delivers hours of abundant sunshine and bright blue sky that make music for the senses.

Elevated temperatures give vegetation encouragement to feast on nutrients causing lawns to thrive and mowers to mulch. Resident wildlife scurries with an added opportunity to prepare stores for upcoming adverse weather conditions; and people display their approval by filling mall parking places, athletic fields, and partaking in activities that communicate with nature.

October is also in charge of changing seasonal scenery from full to partial sun, earlier sunsets, morning fog, cool evenings, and drenching inhabitants with light from a harvest moon. Nighttime is no longer filled with a symphony of sound. Dark hours become more muted and subdued as the nocturnal activity is redirected to more pressing tasks. Leaves begin their dance with the sun and wind. Simultaneously changing hue and tint, they twist and turn with every gust of wind displaying an artistry that dazzles the eye and engenders envy in those who view themselves as athletic.

When October’s wind imitates November, leaves are separated from their branches and sail about, floating, spinning, displaying their aerodynamics abilities as they land on neighboring turf. Millions upon millions of leaves find rest on mother earth as their function of purpose is complete. Soon landscapes are carpeted with autumn leaves from every variety of trees, bush and shrub, awaiting young-at-heart feet to shuffle through piles of dried deciduous cornflakes as they crunch their way to and from, school and play. Only oak trees stubbornly hold their leaves fast to the branches throughout autumn. In winter, the chocolate-colored vegetation from these acorn makers will afford stark contrast to snow-covered latticed branches of leaf-bare trees.

When October realized it was being reassigned placement on the monthly annual it decided to be a full-service participant. There is something for everyone: sight, sound, scent, and touch. October is a sensory extravaganza. Throughout October's thirty-one days, the moon will take time to play peek-a-boo with precocious clouds, shining full strength, then, like a bashful child, provide frosty luminous moonlight when hiding behind patches of overcast. Weather will cooperate by allowing convertibles to travel top-down celebrating good times. Sweethearts of all ages will join hands and hearts as they journey through days, forming bonds, sharing moments of melancholy remembrance of times gone by.

October’s generosity presents its end-of-the-month Trick-or-Treat extravaganza—Halloween!   Pint-sized Gremlins and Goblins of every shape and description invade front porches to display their costume and have their pumpkin buckets filled with tasty goodies.  Moms and Dads watchfully chaperone their children as they collect Halloween’s bounty.

Each of us in our own way finds time to acknowledge, treasure, and appreciate October’s moments to remember. Saturday afternoons in the fall are like precious jewels. Sundays have a tranquil, easy peaceful feeling as the season of autumn beckons at a slower pace than the preceding hectic summer. This time of year, is when nature willingly accepts October’s recycling materials. As if on cue, Marigolds, Cosmos,- garden remnants and trees return their bounty to their earthly beginning. Fringe benefits include the perfume of burning autumn leaves, the scent of early morning dampness from blankets of fog changed to gossamer droplets of dew by the early morning sun. A crystal-clear October night is delicious and crispy like fresh potato chips. Cool autumn rains baptize, cleans, and refresh mother earth.  Savor the poetry of October’s Libra and Scorpio.

Birthstones Opal and Tourmaline rival moonlight under a sky twinkling with stars, urge romantics to share hopes and dreams and the wonder of the universe. The sight of ducks and geese winging southward toward warmer climes, quacking and honking their exuberance in appreciation for the summer just past is a signal that change is coming. Early on, these fair-weather creatures decided that rock salt and snow shovels were not for them.      

Permanent wildlife residents search out nooks and crannies in which to hunker down during the frigid cold and snowy winter weather. Human residents begin their preparation for seasonal change, too. Lawnmowers are replaced by snow blowers; furnaces take over from air-conditioners and staying indoors become more attractive than being out-of-doors. Sweaters, windbreakers, blankets and hot cocoa are now more prevalent than tank tops, sandals, and iced tea.

October is the time of harvest as the bounty of one’s labor is displayed for all to see and enjoy. The glory of October provides the means for all of us to taste the sweetness of autumn. October can be an attitude or an age. It can be a time for renewal or reflection, continuation or beginning. The fall of the year brings forth memories or adventurous moments. Such is the glory of October. 

NOVEMBER

By any standard, November is not a very attractive month, In fact, there is time when November could use a press agent to punch up its image. Dispensing its allotment of days in cold, gloomy, sun-stingy wrappings does little to enhance November’s stature. If it weren’t for Thanksgiving, Veterans Day, and birthdays of loved ones, November would be hard pressed to justify membership as a favorite of the month club.

 Unlike its calendar colleagues, November is not a top choice of poets or songwriters. Like an eccentric relative, November goes its own way and does its own thing, marching to the beat of a different drum. November or Novem, used to be the ninth month of the ancient Roman calendar.  But cousins Julius and August Ceaser changed the nine to eleven, and the rest is history.  Even so, November is distinctive with it one designated flower—Chrysanthemum.  Symbolizing friendship, honesty, loyalty, joy and good luck, it is in perfect harmony with the month’s two birthstones: Topaz and Citrine.  In a word: Elegance!

November is not pretentious; what you see is what you get. Long ago it was decided to accept November’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach. November’s primary job is to prepare us for winter—in whatever fashion it sees fit.

Without exception, November comes prepared. Attired in its favorite late autumn colors of gray and brown, November sets about the task of removing remaining leaves from branches by vigorously blow-drying resident elm, maple, birch, and oak trees. A few stubborn chrysanthemums challenge November’s authority before finally packing it in for the winter.

When moisture is on the late-autumn menu, November supplies its own special recipe, believing rain is best when delivered chilled. In fact, all of the month’s main weather courses are served cold.  Occasionally, November prepares a holiday entrée of “freezing Skid stuff,” blanketing the landscape with white crystal flakes. Such events warrant immediate attention. A few extraordinary moments during an ordinary month causes work to be put on hold, while natives savor the unexpected but welcome wintry preview.

Almost bare branches form intricate latticework against leaden gray skies. Like finely crafted lace, the now leafless trees take on unaccustomed delicacy, swaying majestically in concert with November’s icy wind. Playful winter gusts momentarily change the doily-like patterns, as if an unseen kaleidoscope sweeps the horizon.

November teasingly allows brief respites from the biting cold, sometimes inviting balmy breezes and bright sunshine in for a visit. Then, right in the middle of light coats and no scarves, the sun takes a hike, the wind picks up, and temperatures plummet, creating an epidemic of head colds. One can’t help but wonder if November has stock in the aspiring and chicken soup business.

For countless turkeys, however, November is anything but a party. For them, it’s bottom-line-time, roasting-pan city. If they have a voice in the matter, they’d probably promote seafood. But November is quite gifted and knows a good meal when it sees one. The only thing I miss is a good song. Since thanksgiving tunes seem to be in short supply, perhaps the following will suffice. You supply the melody: Lyrics provided by the Zodiac duo: Scorpio and Sagittarius.

Let’s give thanks for all our blessings,
All the living years.
Let’s recall all the moments,
Every happiness and tear.

At tables brimmed with harvest bounty,
With loved ones, family, and friends,
We share the goodness of this land,
Through prayer and touching hands.

 For health and laughter, love, and all that,
Be thankful your petitions were heard,
But most of all, be most grateful
You’re not the roasted ol’ bird.

DECEMBER

After 11 months of preparation, the calendar’s annual year-end bonanza arrives full of anticipation and promise. No other month carries us along with such frenzy and excitement as dies December. For 31 glorious days, people everywhere recharge their batteries and reenergize their circuits, allowing kindness, compassion, generosity, and goodwill to have free reign of the human spirit. All around, one truly feels the exuberance of the season.

December is woolen hats and knitted mittens, decorated stores, and evergreen trees. December’s early darkness welcomes the kaleidoscope of seasonal colored lights as porches and rooftops take on unaccustomed prominence, glowing like electric rainbows, glittering, shimmering, and twinkling greetings to passers-by. December comes wrapped in blankets of gift paper, adorned with ribbon, hiding treasures and tokens of love. December forgives budgets and waistlines, knowing full well both will expand.

December is snow shovels and window scrapers, aching backs and sore muscles. December is holiday school assemblies, Christmas vacation, basketball games, and high school sock hops. December is office parties and late-hour excuses, traffic-jammed highways, and tow-away zones. December is Santa Claus with flying, sleigh-pulling reindeer—one with a bright red nose. December’s astrological partners, Sagittarius and Capricorn, add to the folklore and legend of the season

Sagittarius is optimistic, idealistic and displays a sense of humor with a curious, energetic flexibility to adapt to change.  These traits are in harmony with Capricorn’s enthusiastic welcome to change. December celebrates its position as the calendar’s last month with both inside and outside floral tributes: Narcissus and Holly. And, as a year-ending gift, December offers three choices of birthstone: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon.

December is cold: the onslaught of winter, ice-skating ponds and sled-slick hillsides. December is shopping for groceries, bargains, and gifts tagged “From Santa.” December is tinsel and ornaments and popcorn on a string. December is parades, mistletoe and merriment, carols and hymns, and songs celebrating the birth of the Christ-Child.

December has fireplaces, fresh buttered popcorn, and love-lighted eyes. December is frozen toes and frosty noses. December is a Nativity scene and midnight Mass. December is holding hands with someone special; window shopping, stargazing, and building dreams. December is hot chocolate and fruitcake. Homemade bread, and nut roll. December is grab bags and surprises, Christmas cards, and long overdue phone calls.

December is shivering in the car until the heater kicks in and icicles at rest along the roof’s eaves. December is baking cookies and roast duck, snack trays and board games. December is It’s a Wonderful Life,, Going My Way, and The Christmas Story: “You’ll shoot your eye out!”  December is a special holiday on TV. December is “White Christmas” and “The Little Drummer Boy.” December is Advent and Christmas Eve.

December is melancholy and childhood memories. December is family and love for one another. December is buying a Christmas tree and searching for toy sales. December is friends, present and past. December is eggnog and strudel. December is photographs in the family album, favorite songs on the radio, cozy comforters, and down-filled pillows. December is children bursting with excitement, bubbling, joyful laughing all the way. December is childhood with sugar plum dreams and loving hugs.

December is silver bells and sleigh rides. December is crystal-clear moonlight and bone-chilling wind. December is inventory time, New Year’s resolution time. December is memories of faces and places and times of your life. December is remembering Mom and Dad, brothers and sisters, hanging stockings, and opening gifts while dressed in pj’s.

December is a grade school choirboy, decorating the family tree, and sitting alone in the darkened parlor watching tinsel light-dance the shadows. December is prayer to the Christ Child. December is the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, and the menorah. December is “Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men.” December is the Christmas Star, the three Wise Men, Joseph, Mary, and the PRINCE OF Peace.

December is sharing, giving, belonging, listening, and helping. December is children singing “Silent Night.” December in Bethlehem, no room as the inn, a manger, and Baby Jesus. December welcomes college students’ homes for the holidays. December is an opportunity to rekindle friendships, dispel ill feelings, and let your heart shine. December is the Christmas Angel trumpeting the Good News! December is Christmas decorating evergreen trees with lights, ornaments, garland, and placing presents under the tree.  December hosts Christmas Eve’s gift exchange where romantic join hearts, promises, and diamond engagement rings.

December is quiet reflection and tranquil meditation. December is solitary, time for being along with one’s thoughts. December is crowded, hustling, bustling throngs of Santa’s helpers. December is snowfall, snowball, and drifts just right for kids to make snow angels.

December is youthful and energetic, caroling with the neighbors, brightening the spirit of shut-ins. December is Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. December is “Jingle Bells” and a snowman named Frosty. December is freshly scrubbed children peacefully asleep in their beds. December is wide-eyed kids on Christmas morning. December is family and loved ones. December is you and I, its promise bestowed upon all. December is a treasure of the heart.

EPILOGUE

What moments do you remember that became treasures of the heart? What heartfelt images do you keep in your personal scrapbook? Each month affords opportunity to remember, recall, and reminisce about steppingstones of life’s journey. Let your thoughts fill your mind, joyfully welcome their visit.

Whenever you decide to muse and meditate is the perfect time to pause. These are moments from the calendar’s twelve-time capsules. These are the gifts that await review.

Recall the adage: “Yesterday is history, Tomorrow is a mystery, Today is a gift, that’s why it’s called the Present.”  So many moments, so many memories. Savor the moments. Treasure the memories.