October 2008 Almanac
This Month: It’s All Happening Now … How Can We Do It All?
Statistically, October ranks as one of Maine’s drier months with an average rain (or possibly snowfall) occurring in eight of its 31 days, and this period of relatively good weather offers cool but not frigid temperatures. Contrary to popular belief, November passes just as dry, but those cold rains in the 11th month make a lasting impression.
Against a backdrop of intense reds, yellows and oranges, outdoors folks find a bunch of options, including upland birding, waterfowling, bowhunting deer, bear hunting, small-game hunting, fall fishing, trapping, cooning with hounds, gray-squirrel shooting, chasing rabbits, wild-food gathering, capturing landscape and wildlife photos, camping, backpacking, canoe tripping, harvesting garden staples, the root veggies, or you name it.
Even retired folks don’t have enough time in the 31-day month to do it all, so we pick and choose our delights. Sometimes, we arrange cast-and-blast weekends — say grouse hunting in the morning, trout fishing in a northern river during the afternoon and vehicle camping at a secluded site. This option works when we try to crowd in as much as possible.
One scene appeals to everyone, a day afield followed by an early night in front of the woodstove, reading a good book with a faithful dog curled at our feet. An electric blanket feels sinful when it’s time to retire.