David J Stitt

In central New York the lawns have just gotten to the point that they need to be mowed for the first time this year. The fresh pine cones have dropped to the ground from the trees in the back yard. It was near sunset and I wanted to quickly mow the lawn before it rained again, so I was rushing to beat the setting sun. As I pushed the mower over the pine cones the mower mulched them along with the grass and produced a pine scent that was magnificent. There is no store-bought air freshener that remotely smells as wonderful. As I continued to push the mower I thought that this is one of those times when I need to slow down and enjoy the experience (“stop and smell the ‘pine cones’”). It was peaceful and I am so glad that I made that decision - I still beat the fleeting sun.