Fall, according to the calendar, is here. The weather has been delightful, just the way I like it. And, over the weekend there was no better time to enjoy Brookfield. 

On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Brookfield Beautification Commission kicked the season into high gear with their annual duck race -- not real ducks, rubber duckies – at noon. It's a fundraiser for public art in Brookfield and was just part of a full day of community activities in and around the Brookfield Village Hall.

First there was a morning stop at the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce's Farmers Market, which has more vendors this year providing more choices. As a matter of fact, Beach Avenue BBQ, which has been serving up smoked pork throughout the summer there, is opening a business in Brookfield, so their products will be available year round. Good for them and for their future customers.

For me the highlight of the day was the chamber's Brookfield Arts Festival at Kiwanis Park, an annual event that has grown over its 10-year history an now includes more than 40 crafters and artisans. 

I tend to buy earrings that are handmade and so I did this time also, along with two necklaces. One booth displayed handmade jewelry made by Brookfield residents. The items were made from seeds that come from Guatemala, so no two pieces were alike. 

There is a retired couple from North Riverside who polish gemstones and make jewelry, which are lovely to look at and nice to own. Photography showcasing local places of interest or from places as far away as Africa gave a close-up look at some of nature's beautiful creatures. Pottery, wooden items, textiles, all handmade were available. I am always amazed at the talent of so many. In my mind, I like to think I could do some of those things, but I don't.

There was food, music, face painting and some very detailed sidewalk chalk art. All in all it made for a very good day and Mother Nature held off the rain. 

On a personal note … I could send a card, but I will save the postage and send a greeting in print for all to see. Happy Birthday to our daughter-in-law, Pam Kosey, whose birthday is Sept. 25. We will give you a call and I do have something for you. Now all your friends can read this and wish you a happy day. (Love, Your favorite mother-in-law).