3 on Thursday | 11.8.2018…

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Today was meet up with my Thursday stitching friends. We met at our friend who, three weeks ago, had major foot surgery. Tho’ confined to her apartment – a 3rd floor walkup – she gets around with a scooter that has a seat. It works well for the space and keeps her mobile. We brought potluck: soup, salads, and desserts. We had a good time: catching up, sharing, reviewing the week’s elections and other political news. The drive was especially beautiful. The trees have nearly reached their peak; on the way home, sunlight streamed so one could get a deeper look into the interior. I wished I could stop and take a few dozen photos; of course, that wasn’t possible. I am grateful, though, for the visuals inscribed in my memory.

As I drove, taking in the rich deep colors of the changing trees, I kept thinking, out loud:  I am thankful that I live in an area that has four seasons! I love seeing Mother Nature’s wonders: trees, flowers, birds, butterflies, the sky –  and sometimes, the temperature is just right!  Autumn is my favorite season. Despite the cold, I do like Winter, especially on days after a fresh snowfall, generally few in these parts. Then Spring…and again, the trees don their gently colored frocks. Lastly, Summer; it’s the humidity that gets me. Were it not, I’d probably not mind as much.

I use the Apple Watch Breathe app to start my mornings…as my tea steeps. I am finding that this simple 4-6 minutes activity helps  me set a calmer, more positive tone for my thoughts and  the day. And when I’m frazzled, which is often <smile>, I turn to the breath. I am grateful that I have incorporated this simple and generally available technique in my lifeApple Watch or app not needed!

Joining Carole and others for another Thursday 3!

Cheers~

@sunrise …

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6:30 am:  On this first day of the return to “normal” time, I stand on the deck, inhale the crisp autumn morning air – it’s only 37°F!  I had the presence of mind to put on a jacket and hat…and I’m glad I did! I look upward to the sky, ribbons of pink-tinged clouds and jet contrails, planes headed to National Airport, greet me. Birds swiftly fly toward the morning sun, so fast I can’t/don’t capture with my iPhone.

The tree, “this tree,” that I observe through every season, is fast loosing its leaves. Everyday, I can see more of its magnificent structure. Still, at the very top, are bright yellow leaves…causing me to remember the symphony of color that greets us these days as we walk, ride, drive, are out and about – on errands, on the way to work, play or home. The season is ending; leaves gather on sidewalks, lawns. Mother Nature prepares for the next.

On this thought, I turn to go inside to fix my first cuppa tea and listen to Sunday Baroque…and I think how grateful I am for the life I’ve had… and to welcome another day.