ready...

the change of seasons is the current theme
of sideline, bus stop, grocery store,
and morning news chatter.

here in new england,
it quite literally blew
onto the scene this week.

i've slipped into my favorite boots,
bundled up in my gortex puffer jacket,
tucked my hair under a knitted cap,
and wrapped a chunky afghan around my shoulders.

i've climbed into the attic,
unpacked boxes from the basement,
and pushed the heated seat button in my car.

like all seasons,
the weather is the easy conversation to be had.
small talk that is often
accompanied by mild growling, disbelief, surprise and denial.

i often feel,
and think we all know deep down,
that this small talk is often the guise for the emotional shift
 that really defines the change of season.

 i think this is especially true of
autumn...
and maybe that's why it is my favorite.

some years i've found the shift to autumn sad,
longing for the warmth and long days of summer.
some years i've felt robbed,
feeling the bustle of life meant we missed the glory of fall.
some years i've felt overwhelmed,
that all the good is just too good to do...and do well.
some years i've felt anxious,
dreading the cold and darkness of winter.
some years i've felt tired,
from sleepless nights with a new born or third trimester exhaustion.
some years i've felt regretful,
realizing the year is ending and goals were note reached.
sometimes years i've felt lonely,
preparing to miss the ease of gathering in the backyard.
some years i've felt confused,
like didn't we JUST celebrate halloween, thanksgiving and christmas?

but most years,
and especially this year,
i feel ready for the shift to autumn.

ready to let go of some things,
like the leaves that were once green,
that will turn red, orange, brown and then fall.

ready to plant new things,
like the tulips and daffodil bulbs i'll plant this weekend...
but not see bloom until spring.

ready to gather and hustle,
like the very busy little squirrels in my backyard...
making preparations to thrive in winter.

ready to dwell,
like the animals that hibernate...
but remain cozy and close to the ones they love.

ready to celebrate,
like they did in plimoth and nazareth...
with the joy and promise of new life.

ready...
that's what i'll say when we small talk about the weather.
i won't growl or complain, act surprised or confused...
but i will wonder and hope we have a time to
share and contemplate the season's emotional shifts too.

are you ready?

***

if you are local
and want to spend some time reflecting and celebrating
this season you are in,
while preparing your hearts for the one to come...
you're invited to join me on
october 29 here in my barn.

i'll be leading a
workshop for women called
"stamped: made for this."
you can read more and register here,
or reach out with any questions.

i would love to spend this evening with you to...
reflect & renew,
connect & create,
dream & dance,
love & laugh!
because dear sisters...
we were made for this!