A few years back, one fall day, when I was just beginning to write this column, I began it with the following paragraph. With fall’s arrival this year, the same sentiments fill my thoughts. So bear with me while I repeat myself.

“Are you old enough to remember the song, ‘Falling leaves drift by my window; falling leaves of red and gold’? When I see the leaves start to show off their fall colors, this melody always comes to mind. Fall is a season of color, a time when the dullest of scenes becomes a photo opportunity. A time-worn bungalow in winter sends out a chill; but in the fall, surrounded by yellow oaks, red maples and a few late blooming mums planted along the porch, this same bungalow is wrapped in a glow of warmth and invitation.”

Here in Landrum, adding to this special season, is the Landrum Area Business Association Scarecrow Contest. Have you visited shops around town to see the scarecrows on display? Have you voted for your favorite? It’s what living in a small town is all about, a sense of community, enjoying a slower pace than the hurried bustle of a city.

Longtime resident Billy Stewart recently approached me at my farmers market cookie booth.

“When I grew up, Landrum was like a town in the reader ‘Dick and Jane.’ One time in the fall, they had a potato roast over near First Baptist church. They raked big piles of leaves to burn, then nestled potatoes down in the leaves. It was really funny because there was a ‘Dick and Jane’ story in my book where they did exactly the same thing,” he said smiling as he remembered.

I must be honest. Halloween isn’t my favorite holiday. Skeletons and ghosts are a little too haunting for me. But on my recent visit to meet the scarecrows, I was cheered by their smiling faces and by the imagination and inventiveness employed in each entry.

Have you passed by the fire station and noticed the rescue scarecrow climbing the ladder? Luckily there’s no fire because I’m afraid our scarecrow would become part of the smoke! Imagination Station presents two of the popular minions along with Millstone Gallery’s ‘four and twenty blackbirds’ eating some pie.

PJ’s and Sissy’s exhibit fashionista scarecrows, reflecting the stylish theme of their shops. Southern Delights’ scarecrow is in the midst of a cartwheel, I’m sure caused by his elation from enjoying a frosty ice cream cone.

I was excited to see two new entries. A friendly lady scarecrow is perched on the steps at the former Twigs house. This stately white house, probably the oldest house in Landrum, witnessed the famous murder the day the first train came to Landrum. For the past several years it’s been sadly waiting for a new owner. Recently the house was purchased and is now, happily, being restored.

Across Trade Street, nestled in the park, is the new Local Yocal’s entry, a spotted cow with a lazy scarecrow taking a rest on the cow’s back. Local Yocal has just opened on Rutherford St. in the Prince Gas Plaza.

As you drive around town, keep your eyes open for all the scarecrows sitting in front of businesses. Most are easy to spot. Landrum Hardware’s Pipe Man Scarecrow is especially unique, and Lavender Sage’s scarecrows keep observant eyes on a busy intersection.

You will need to look in store windows for some including Organic Works, Getfitted Boutique, Carolina Antiques, and Habitat Restore. Realta School of Irish Dance has a dancing scarecrow. This new business is located in the alley behind Landrum Hardware. Landrum Eclectics says to ride by theirs at night. 

Pick up a ballot and vote for your favorite. There’s a ballot box at the kiosk next to Hare and Hound to deposit your ballot. Voting ends at 5 p.m. on Oct. 30. Prizes will be awarded during the 7 p.m. Halloween Stroll & Fall Festival, Oct. 31, after the Costume Contest to be held at the Depot. Be sure to join the fun!