Autumn Colors and Shepherd Pie

Fall. For a little someone I know, it's a sign of hot, long, lazy summer days coming to a bitter-sweet end, and the dreaded days of school exams at the Coors Event Center. For me, it's a new season of must-watch TV, and pumpkin galore and holidays around the corner. I see the signs of fall in my garden when my huge tomatoe plants finally shriveled up while still trying to hold on to a few small buds. They have given me many a good harvest this summer, but sadly they will be heading for the trash, together with all the potted annuals that gave beauty to the front pouch the last 4 months. As I replaced the summer plants with pumpkins and chrysanthemums, I took a moment to capture the wonderful colors of fall in my backyard...

Today, I wanted Shepherd's Pie. It seemed appropriate, after a day of 'fall' cleaning and kid's activities. It's a great, simple one-dish meal for cool nights and filled with wonderful mashed potatoes, left-over lamb, and vegetables. It's also kid-friendly.
As promised, this is for you Anne. I found this recipe on the web from Scott Kleinman at epicurious.com, and had tried it once before. My variation has celery and corn added to his fast and easy recipe. Enjoy!