Fall in July?

Lately I’ve noticed a baffling trend

Of fall items displayed in stores, do they intend

To make people plan ahead and buy

Pumpkins and Halloween decor in July?

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I am not good at seasonal decorating

When I host a gathering, I’m usually waiting

Until the last minute to spruce up my space

Almost invariably the dilemma I face

Is whether to add to my home a seasonal touch

Or to leave my decor unchanged- it ends up being too much

For me to decide, but maybe it’s just me

Other folks plan for the next season probably..

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Perhaps there is a different idea at play here

Summer is at its peak at this time of the year

Everyone is dreaming of cooler temperatures now

Browsing through and shopping for fall-themed items allows

People to transiently forget the intense heat

In that case, this is a brilliant strategy to compete

In the market for consumers’ money and attention

Fall decor has probably been displayed with intention..

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I look at yet another plush pumpkin on display

And imagine the crisp fall air before walking away