Eggplants and the Sparrows Return

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Voluptuous and purple brown, the last of the season’s eggplant are hardy and firm to the tooth. They soften and their bitterness retreats with a salting, which also draws out excess water. Delectable grilled, and these are truly the last. The frost is nearly upon us.

The sparrows have returned to the feeder and some birds I’m not familiar with. I love catching a glimpse of new varieties as they migrate through. Last year’s crows taught their babies that we are good for a handful of peanuts at their calling, so there we go. Shiny and black, the young pair sit at the edge of the picnic table and wait while I set out a little plate for them. They cock their heads and fluff themselves when I tell them how much beauty I find in their glossy beaks and strong pinfeathers.

How are you greeting the crisp days of early autumn? Which are your final fruits, the last of summer’s sweet memories? And what novelty migrates through your world as it seeks a resting place for winter?