FROM THE EDITORS
There’s a quote by one Gregory F. Lenz that states: “Welcome sweet November, the season of senses and my favorite month of all.”
Now, that got us thinking about November, and has inspired us to take a new look at a time that traditionally conjures up images of grey days, cold winds, bare earth and denuded trees. So often, this month seems betwixt and between: Halloween and Thanksgiving have passed for another year, and it’s still (for some) a bit too soon to embrace December’s imminent holiday extravaganzas. But Lenz’s words “the season of senses” led us to reconsider what is, normally, 30 days we don’t always pay attention to; instead, we find ourselves rushing right through them, focused on “the good stuff” we’ve just celebrated, or that’s only a few weeks away.
To that end, we propose indulging in an item or two on our list of sensory experiences November brings and we hope that, like us, you’ll discover a new appreciation for this overlooked month.
SIGHT The glow of diya lamps during Diwali, the Hindu festival of light triumphing over darkness.
This year it takes place on November 14.
sound The sound of silence. One minute, at 11 a.m., on November 11, lest we forget to honour the men and women who have fought for our country.
touch Get your fingers dirty. A warmish day is your last chance to plant bulbs for flowering next spring.
taste Pies, soups, stews, hot chocolate, peppermint and pumpkin spice everything. Take your pick of the delicious flavours of the season. (Hint: Try our Red Velvet Beet Cupcakes, recipe on page 79.)
scent There’s no better time than when days are short to light a scented candle and revel in the aroma.