As we say goodbye to September it’s time to say hello to October.
Yes, the tenth month of the year is here!
October glows on every cheek,
October shines in every eye,
While up the hill and down the dale
Her crimson banners fly.
~ Elaine Goodale Eastman (1863–1953) ~
The Leaves They Are a-Changin’
With the autumnal equinox in late September, many leaves begin to change, but have you ever wondered why do leaves change colours? Did you know that Autumn/Fall’s vivid colours are actually hidden underneath summer’s green? The main reason for the colour change is not autumn’s chilly weather, but light—or rather, the lack of it. The green colour of leaves disappears when photosynthesis (from sunlight) slows down and the chlorophyll breaks down. Trees with a lot of direct sunlight will produce red leaves, while other trees may turn yellow, orange, or brown.
Sitting square in between September and November, October is the tenth month of the Gregorian calendar.
October is seen by many to be a time of real seasonal change, both in the northern and southern hemispheres. For those in the north, autumn is really kicking into gear and the nights are getting cooler. The harvest festivals are almost over, and the nights are getting longer and longer by the day.
October is unsurprisingly quite different for those who live in the southern hemisphere. Spring has already bloomed in all its glory, and life is becoming more and more pleasant by the day.
The Anglo-Saxons’ name for October was Winterfylleth, with its name containing the words for winter and full moon respectively. It was named this because winter was said to begin from the first full moon of the month.
The Saxons had a name for October, too. Theirs was Wyn Monath, which translated into “wine month” because it was the time of the year for making wine.
October’s birthstone is the Opal. The opal comes in a myriad of striking colours that often seem to swirl together and is a symbol of both faithfulness, purity, and hope.
October has two strikingly different birth flowers, the pastel-hued cosmos, and the radiant marigold flowers. The cosmos flower is representative of the joy one finds in peace and love, as well as representing peace. The marigold, otherwise known as the calendula, is said to be a symbol of tranquillity, grace, and grief.
Octobers star signs – those born in October can be born under one of two very different star signs. If you are born before October 23rd, then you have the sign of Libra. Those born on October 23rd or later have the sign of Scorpio. Libras are said to value harmony and diplomacy and are said to be both intelligent and kind. Scorpios are quite different, valuing trust and honesty above other things, as well as being quite intense yet imaginative people.
~ and now for a delicious recipe suggestion ~
Autumn Frittata with Butternut Squash and Spinach
tastes great and nutrition per slice is – Fat 11g Carbs 7g Protein 15g
~ Wishing you a happy October 2024 ~
Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles, studies etc. plus recent news/views and recipe ideas within this blog, hopefully something for everyone to read and enjoy … but please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.
All the best Jan
