The horrific violence that has occurred in our country in the past month has been devastating.  But in addition to trying to make our country safer, kinder and more just in response, we can also take the time to treasure the good people and the simple joys in our lives.  

Among those simple joys are the little blessings of autumn that envelope us in this new season of change. Thankfully, there are several ways people can enjoy the autumn splendor while spending time with good friends, family and neighbors.   

Once again, Grafton Recreation will hold its Fall Festival on Sunday Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nelson Park in North Grafton. The free event is presented by Coral Care, Country Bank, Dance It Up, Grafton Children’s Daycare & Preschool. It’s also sponsored by Jackie Crawford-Ross, Realtor and Kid Hero Books. It will feature pumpkin painting, scarecrow building and an apple pie contest. And there will be food trucks, music and inflatables.

Another free family event will be held on Sunday Sept. 28. That’s when the Congregational Church of Grafton’s 46th Annual Harvest Fair and Apple Pie Social will be held. The event will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the church grounds, located at 30 Grafton Common. The event will include live music, a yard sale, kids’ games and raffles. And the apple pies, apple crisp, chili and chowder that the fair is known for, along with other food and beverages, will be available to buy. The funds raised through the sales and raffles will help support the charities and missions that the church supports.

On the Grafton Common, the Grafton Country Store continues to celebrate fall with elegant seasonal décor in its shop. Shoppers will find a selection of seasonal wreathes, glass pumpkins and a myriad of other items to celebrate fall with loved ones or individually.      

Just down the road, Off the Common Antiques also has a wide selection of autumn-themed décor to browse and shop. At the multi-artisan, multi-vendor shop, shoppers can find antiques, handmade items and reclaimed furniture to bring the coziness of the season into their homes.

It’s sometimes in the darkness that we realize who and what brings light to our lives. Hopefully, this fall will bring bountiful opportunities to cherish those blessings.  

Contact Christine with your business news items at [email protected].