Time passages

It seems time is getting short.

“What time would that be, Brian?” the less disinterested ask.

“I don’t know,” I answer pensively, “all time.”

My son, Hunter, who was practically born on these pages, will begin first grade on Monday. Although I hope summer has a few more weeks of heat, I’ve noticed the locust trees picking up some yellow leaves. The quail have begun to covey, a sure sign of colder weather to come. Burning Man, my year’s trip outside the same-old, comes next week.

I feel I could go on and on. The oldest child at my house, Amy, will begin her last year in high school in a matter of days; the second-eldest, Danny, will soon be getting his learner’s permit. Kathleen begins a new school year this week.

I notice that these endings are symbolized by beginnings, which moves them from a state of causing mild depression to having some basis in fear of the unknown. It’s odd that I wouldn’t realize that until I saw the words in print. Jeez, with all the endings and the beginnings, I sound like a sappy Byrds song.

Along happier lines, there’s only about a month until Sept. 10, the deadline for submissions for art for the cover of the Reno News & Review’s annual Best of Northern Nevada. So far, there hasn’t been a lot of response, but knowing creative types, it’s all going to come in on deadline. So, if you’re an artist who wants bragging rights to a News & Review cover and massive prize money (OK, $150), you might send your submission in early. It’ll give you the added edge of not getting lost in the last-minute deluge. For requirements and guidelines, check out the house ad on page 29. Don’t forget to fill out your Best of northern Nevada Ballot.

Anyway, if you have any qualms, complaints, improvements, rearrangements or condiments for the newspaper, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line or give me a call, 324-4440 ext. 3525.