by Mark Stash, Editor
Sometimes it seems that certain seasons pass us by in a blink of an eye. I’ve heard people comment that yes, the winters can be long in the Finger Lakes, but the summer and fall make up for the long, cold dark days of other seasons.
For me, this past summer season moved way too fast, and I think a part of that reason is because I haven’t taken the time to enjoy a better balance in my life. Work sometimes can overpower everything else in my life, and time off in the form of exercise, spending time with friends and loved ones and just having quiet moments is very important.
It is my goal for the coming season of autumn to enjoy many things that living in the Finger Lakes can offer to me. The cooler days and colorful, seasonal changes of this time of year are refreshing and actually give me more energy.
One of my favorite activities is hiking and just spending time outdoors in meadows and woods. I grew up in that environment, and it always grounds me and shows me what’s really important in my life. Derek Doeffinger’s article about finding his favorite waterfall park in the autumn (page 44) is inspirational because we can check out his favorite park, and perhaps we have a different favorite park to enjoy waterfalls in autumn as well. I am curious what everyone else thinks. Please feel free to drop an email to me and I can post the results in a future publication.
Bill Banaszewski and Michele Howland wrote a sobering article about the challenges to the environment that this region is currently facing (page 52). Harmful algal blooms in lakes, invasive plants and insects, and multiple ways that productive farmland is being utilized are all challenges the region is facing. We can all play a part in helping to maintain and improve a healthy Finger Lakes area. Spending time outdoors in this environment may inspire us to find ways to contribute in a positive way to improving the region.
Let’s all explore our own way of finding balance this fall season. I am looking forward to living life to the fullest this autumn. Making every day count and having the opportunity even to do that is a real blessing.
I’ll see you out on the trails!
Send comments and letters to mark@lifeinthefingerlakes.com
