Down here in the coastal south.... this is a welcomed shift.
After months of hot humidity, we welcome the first signs of autumn here with verve and delight.
Our falls can be flaky, true.
But when the temps dare to wonder down into the 60's overnight - we bask in the change and relief.
Because of this...
I'm out back.
Situated in thick St. Augustine, with pines and palms as my background - I'm visiting you from the outdoors today.
My feet are propped up on the opposite lawn chair, a mower's motor is within earshot, the smell of steak is wafting over fences, and there's a breeze tussling leaves and yard weeds.
Cicadas are singing high up in the pines, the kids have gone inside to welcome Daddy after his preach, and football is on the tube screen.
Bliss.
I'm so grateful.
After reading about refugees, and watching those videos, and glancing at headlines, and hearing what's happening to friends and such... my current station in life seems like paradise.
Prospective checks are necessary.
And they usually end up ringing in thankfulness and contentment.
I do have some pressing concerns going on personally, as does everyone else. I do have things happening in my life right now that raise fear and frustration. I do have questions on certain issues, and I do need guidance in many areas, and I do have some hard things I'm handling.
But standing back, looking at the broad scheme, seeing the global picture... I feel full and thankful.
A Texas diesel just roared through the neighborhood, and another mowing machine just now began to tear through green, and my middle child just got sent to timeout.
I'm getting ready to patch this up and close this out... because it is just about time for me to slide on shoes, and pack a few kid bags, and wrangle everyone to the van for yet another first gathering of community group.
I hope the beginnings of this new season feel sweet to you. And I hope this week surprises you with some kind of relief, refreshment, and joy that abounds.
Back soon, friends. Hugs to you all.
