One week into autumn, this image (captured four years ago on September 29, 2020) riffles into focus. And with it a 2012 snippet from our *other* shoulder season. The common denominator? The Stars and Stripes. So allow me a moment to riff on fall fanfare and old glory…
What might colorful fall foliage have in common with this April 30, 2012 excerpt?
A concerned passerby had stopped to complain about the tattered American flag flapping over Rosslyn boathouse. He… referenced his years of military service and departed. By all accounts, the passerby was courteous and respectful, and his concern was justified. Old Glory was in a sorry state of neglect.
Doug promptly replaced the tattered flag and assumed that the case was closed.
It wasn’t.
A few days later the same gentleman returned and expressed his gratitude. And then he departed. No name. No way to thank him for his attention. A mysterious stranger with a patriotic soul and a neighborly spirit.
Good flags make good neighbors. (Source: Old Glory & Mud Season)
I’m embarrassed to admit that this isn’t the only time or the last 18 years that we have relied upon the generosity of neighbors to remind us to replace the Stars and Stripes. A couple of weeks ago, while wrapping up an otherwise unmemorable windsurfing session with Susan I noticed that the wind had damaged the flag. 
Tony resolved the problem ASAP with a crisp new flag. Once again, like that moment memorialized above four years ago today, autumn has begun coloring tree leaves, even loosing a few scarlet leaves onto the stair landing. This vibrant blushing is the perfect accompaniment to the flapping flag!
What do you think?