The moon was full Saturday night, rising amber through the evening sky. With wheat dust filling the air from combines humming across the north country, one would hasten to label this honey hued orb rising through a sultry haze a Harvest Moon.
In fact, this is the Sturgeon Moon. Native Americans and the Farmers Almanac name each full moon largely in relation to whichever food source is abundant. In August, the foodsource is usually sturgeon in our lakes and streams. Harvest moon is technically whichever full moon should occur closest to the autumnal equinox, which this year will fall on September 23.
I suppose if Native Americans named their moons after foodsources, it is appropriate to call this most recent full moon a Harvest Moon for us. After all, wheat is a major foodsource for the world. Each single grain planted will produce many kernels, harvested to share.
I can't think of a Harvest Moon without hearing in my mind the Neil Young song of the same name. One of my favorite songs. "Just like children sleepin', we could dream this night away."
Beautiful pictures!
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