Monday Musings

Out in my yard today... it's about 60 degrees and sunny with an expected high in the mid-70s.  PERFECT weather as far as I'm concerned.

There are still some beautiful things blooming in the yard. 

My husband and I were blessed to have a close relationship with the couple that we purchased our home from.  They lived here for several years and cared so lovingly for this place.  Barbara was quite a gardener and she planted so many wonderful things in the yard that we get to enjoy. I especially love this pink rose bush.  Barbara was a breast cancer survivor twice in her lifetime.  Whenever I see this bush bloom I am reminded of her faith, courage, and tenacity.  She died a few years ago, but I still feel close to her whenever I work in the yard.

The leaves are slowly beginning to change.  It's a new season... my favorite season!!!!

I'm grateful for... the increase in energy and focus that I have been experiencing for the past few days.  It has been a long time since I have felt this good and had this degree of clarity. Praise God!

One of my favorite things...

As I mentioned earlier, autumn is my favorite season of the year.  Hanging out this welcome sign by my front door somehow makes it feel official!

This week I'm reading... September by Rosamunde Pilcher, one of my very favorite authors.  I try to read this book every year during the month of September.  Her descriptions of the Scottish countryside are so vivid... I feel so warm and cozy each time that I read.

I'm looking forward to... a little quieter week.  Homecoming was last week and I was pretty exhausted by the time it was over.  This week I will finish decorating the house for fall, do some baking, and finish up a few long-overdue projects.

Simple life tip for the week... for a much-needed energy boost,  go spend a little time in a place that inspires you.  I like to wander through bookstores, craft stores, and garden nurseries.  Even if I don't buy anything, I always find something that makes me smile and sparks a bit of creativity.  Spending time outdoors also helps.  A little fresh air clears my head and expands my vision.  Seek some inspiration this week!