Within the rhythm of nature, October is the symphony of autumn. Not wanting to toss away the gift of these autumn days, I decided to work in my yard this week, cleaning up my small flower gardens. A furry squirrel carrying acorns to store for winter scampered right across my feet ”“ they don’t usually come that close.

We don’t need to go far, just beyond our doorstep, to explore the many wonders of Mother Nature’s playground. Look up at the trees and see the changing colors of the lush greenery. As the leaves fall, the landscape changes. It is amazing how leaves produce many different colors: bright yellows, russet, real red, maroon and even brown.

We marvel at nature’s flamboyant dress. We like catching a falling leaf. Can you hear the birds singing and whispering together?

Nature has its timing. Astrology explores your relationship with nature, and with the Earth and its seasons. If you are interested in astrology, it is a great exploration of the sun, moon and planets. One can easily spend a lifetime exploring the unaccountable facets of this ever-loving, ever-new topic. It demands that we keep an open mind, greeting the unknown with respect, awareness and sensitivity.

Fran Halaman-daris is teaching a class in this fascinating, vast and complicated arena of knowledge. The group meets once a month on a Wednesday at the Dyer Library. For fun, since it is October, let’s interpret a basic reading of a natal chart of a Libra born between Sept. 23 and Oct. 23. People with a Libra sign generally are: active, alert, affectionate, artistic, appealing, balanced, beguiling, charming, creative, diplomatic, easygoing, generous, gentle, honorable, just, painstaking, peaceable, petty, polished and sympathetic. This description was taken from the book, “Zodiac Athena’s Sunsigns,” by the late Athena Starwoman, who was one of the top mystics and astrologers in the world.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Biddeford & Saco Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours will be hosted by the Saco & Biddeford Saving Institution, located at 252 Main St., Saco, on Oct. 23 from 5-9 p.m. All are invited to come meet with old friends, make new acquaintances and enjoy some food. There will be appetizers, refreshments, door prizes and 50/50 raffle.

Estella Papassavas, member services coordinator at the chamber, would also like to remind folks about the 28th annual Holiday Auction, set for Nov. 7 at the Ramada at Saco Plaza at 6 p.m. Seating is limited. RSVP to Estella by calling 282-1567 or emailing [email protected].

— Zaffie Hadiaris of Saco is the host of “Zaffie,” a weekly television talk show on Channel 3 Biddeford public access. It can also be seen at biddefordmaine.org. Contact Hadiaris at [email protected].