October brings serious tasks and gentle fun: Sun Messages

By Maria Shine Stewart, Sun NewsSOUTH EUCLID, Ohio – It’s autumn, time for reflection and constructive action.And perhaps some wordplay, too.Few words precisely rhyme with October, as you might guess. But do read on for some new words apropos for the season with tips to keep you well and involved in the weeks ahead.“Clocktober”: An annual ritual of determining if we are leaping ahead or falling back. Typically, this is followed by forgetting or remembering (or both) to change the clocks. Tip: There is no quick ritual to safely adjust our own bodies’ clocks. Be gentle with yourself and double-check appointments. And a heads-up: Fall Back (End of DST): is at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026. “Doctober”: Yes, if you need a flu shot, now might be the time. Double check with your health practitioner. And other health needs might be addressed prior to the first snow. Tip: Lend a helping hand, a favor that might be gladly returned, if a loved one, friend, or neighbor needs support. It might be a ride to get that needed medical care – or a seasonal task (leaf raking?). A caring act helps our own sense of connection as well as helping others.“Frocktober”: The process of replacing summer dresses and suits with the warmer variety. Welcome back, sweater dresses, long vests, layers. And as the process proceeds, have some lighter clothes – or other household essentials – served their purpose? Tip: Fall can be a time to decide what can stay and what can go – or be transferred to those in need. For clothes, there are many drop-off points throughout our area. And Lyndhurst’s Community Shred Event & Food Drive from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 10 in the parking lot of Lyndhurst Municipal Center. Free for Lyndhurst residents eager to purge paper responsibly – and keep goodwill flowing..“Locktober”: Whether it’s the back-to-school trim or letting the roots return, don’t worry: to your friends, neighbors and family: it’s you that matters. Whereas you are constant, hair comes and goes, like the sun this time of year. Tip: Drop perfectionism, please. And keep your sense of humor plus a cap or hat for blustery days. Go incognito, even before Halloween.And speaking of Halloween in Hillcrest, spirited fun includes Lyndhurst Police Foundation’s Faith & Blue Weekend from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon on Friday, October 9 in Lyndhurst Park. Savor S’mores and the alliterative “painting pumpkins with police.” Especially suited for youngsters. “Rocktober”: That car radio may help if you are sluggish in the morning. The “oldie” you heard yesterday may be on “repeat” in your head. An earnest newcomer may be practicing “Yesterday” on the tuba or the theme from “Rocky” on the xylophone. Tip: Use rockin’ rhythm to move more. Utilize sounds you like for relaxation, motivation and socializing. And don’t forget the subtle sounds – birds, rustling leaves, gentle raindrops. And the Hillcrest Y at 5000 Mayfield Road in Lyndhurst is one option for fitness all year round.“Stocktober”: Stop at any of our Hillcrest-area grocery stores with an eye toward stocking up. My husband arrived home with an array of canned soups that he dutifully arranged on the counter so I could see the variety. I was touched. Tip: Even if the contents don’t exactly match the enhanced picture label, on a chilly day soup hits the spot.And not all are so fortunate. There are natural disasters daily, and the Tzu Chi’s Highland Heights Service Center offers service opportunities plus classes for those interested in learning about Buddhism. Every Tuesday from 10:30 to 11:30 AM; Saturdays; and Sundays. The Service Center is at 1076 Ford Road in Highland Heights. Phone: 440-646-9292.“Woktober” (even “Crocktober”?): The urge to combine seasonal vegetables with a protein source over high heat. Or curling up with a book while a hearty chili bubbles leisurely. (Neither is to be confused with “Walktober,” a frantic effort to burn calories from a carbohydrate binge.) Tip: Strive for balance. A fall feast for the senses. In all seriousness, it can be a beautiful month even with the challenge of chilly nights, shorter days and hip-deep piles of leaves. Go online for your city’s leaf pick-up. Note the ever-changing palette starting at the top of trees. Stop at least once during the day to see – as in the moving visual poem by E.E. Cummings – the movement of a single leaf swaying to the ground. Listen for the geese, in perfect formation, forming their aerodynamic “v” (for vitality) across the sky, honkin in unison. Notice as scarves and cable knit sweaters make their reappearance from the bottom drawer, the zipped-up bag, the cedar chest – even the clever outfits that some dogs sport on their daily jaunts. And you know the early snow will be here and seeing the kids’ excitement will be fuel to overcome the inconvenience. Take a look at your neighbors’ decorations, preparations, and more. The temperature, inside and out, seems to go up a notch with a smile, a helping hand, a kind word. Though pumpkin flavored beverages and treats are not everyone’s top choice, there is also corn, squash, cider – other delights. Savor some as the cycle of the seasons continues.Have you heard the adage: “Every ending is a beginning”? As you approach this column’s end, what new task beckons to you?Write on! I am eager to hear from readers who know about events, accolades, accomplishments and more. Our seven-city Hillcrest area encompasses South Euclid, Lyndhurst, Mayfield Village, Mayfield Heights, Gates Mills, Highland Heights, and Richmond Heights. Send an email to mariashinestewart@gmail.com Two weeks’ notice is requested for time-sensitive events.