Indian Summer

We are in the 'heat' of 'Indian Summer' right now and I just HAD to take a moment to put down a thought or two. Life is certainly busy for all of us and it will only increase speed as we gain sight of the holidays.

For many around us, this time of year also brings uncertainty and additional stress. With this in-mind, I wanted to take, just this moment of your blog browsing to help you pause for the moment. Lets take a hot second and pause for the little things.

The seasons, the family and friends around us, our health, perhaps a newly mastered yoga position (!!), goals for the coming spring, a semester drawing to a close, a new professional opportunity on the horizon, or a new recipe that we will try on the family over the holidays.

Sometimes the little things are wrapped up in little people, too. A first visit with a new nephew, visiting with an old friend and appreciating how her little baby has grown into a full-blown awesome kid, news of a friend's child excelling in school, or the embracing arms of any little hugger in your world!

These are the things that bring a smile and should help us all cruise through winter and its seasonal challenges.

First, a quick glance at Friday. Friday was the first snow that I have seen this year. (I was thankful that I pulled the last of my green peppers from the garden the day prior). The skies of Ohio are not often gentle to those who are juggling all the challenges of life. Grey is not usually referred to as a welcoming or reassuring tone. Truthfully, I was unaware that the sun actually came out each day, until I moved to Colorado years ago. I had always assumed that the sky just offered lighter or darker shades of grey on most occasions. ha ha ha When I returned to Ohio I first appreciated what everyone else already knew-- we really are a little shy on the bright sun-shiny days around here. This fact can either be a deal breaker or an opportunity for creativity, though.

If we shoot for the stars and fall short, at least we may catch some clouds on the way down. Each winter/fall is an opportunity to shoot for the stars in Akron!

Embrace the chance to visit all of the craft shows in the area over the next two weekends. Go for a hike in the valley and see how many ruby red trees you can 'stumble across'. Call an old friend that you haven't seen in a long time. Take up a new hobby. Grab a membership to a fitness club (the Cuyahoga Falls Y has a very reasonable monthly rate if you just want to join for the winter). Plan your garden or landscaping project for next spring. Visit a veteran. Stretch. Breathe deep and know that life is good.

In the weeks to come, as the flakes of glittery, ice and goodness fall from above, pause for a moment and allow one or two to land on your cheeks. The tickle of their coolness and the fresh breeze that you take in will certainly bring a smile to your face!

All the best, Rubber City-ers!

Happy Indian Summer!!