Changing Seasons

Slowly but surely, the seasons are changing,

here in my forest home. 

Once Mother Nature makes up her

mind, there is no turning back. 

This year, in particular, dark clouds seem to be 

swirling from every direction in our troubled world. 

It is difficult to stay moored securely 

when the winds of change are howling. 

I say this metaphorically, 

but am only too aware that this is a physical 

reality for far too many. 

There are earthquakes, not only physically, 

but politically, reflecting great divisions.

I want it all to stop.

But, alas, I do not rule the world,
so I just keep praying. 

It is sometimes a helpless feeling. 

It doesn't help that I am a constant worrier. 

I worry about the 'price of beans',

as my Bostonian elders used to say. 

I try not to worry, but I am a Wife, a Mother, a Grandmother. 

It comes with the territory. 

But the best antidote is spending time with family. 

You can't worry when you are celebrating birthdays! 

Three of them are even better! 

My youngest son, Dustin (from left), Son-in-law, Eric, 

and eldest son, Gabe are another year older.

Ramblin' Man enjoys his role of 'Patriarch'. 

'The Girls'. 

From left, Daughters Heather and Jennie, and Daughters in law, Jen and Erica. 

Erica hosted and made her Mother's authentic Mexican Chile.

. It was delicious. Everyone brought the accompaniments. 

Home-made cornbread, salad, and tortilla chips with a layered 

bean dip. Yum. 

It was 'Seahawk's Sunday', as you can see by everyone's jersey. 

The Seahawk's lost :( 

But it was a good game. 

We were worried, though, about a dear loved one 

having surgery. The good news is that the patient 

is recovering nicely, and all is well. 

One less worry.......

Gabe gets help blowing out the candle on his cupcake :)

This little guy was very patient waiting for his 'blue cupcake'. 

He kept telling everyone, 'I want a blue one!'

I chose green. 

Seahawk's colors, of course! 

Grandpa has his hands full :)

It was a wonderful day. 

xoxo

All too soon it was time to make the long journey home. 

Mt. Rainier peeks over the farmland 

as we get close. 

The sun has set, turning the mountains deep blue. 

The last rays of sunlight. 

The long night begins. 

xoxo

While contemplating the state of the world, 

I have been busy redecorating for fall. 

I've been gathering, sewing, and feathering the nest

for the change of seasons - making things cozy

for the short days ahead. 

I hope you'll stop by for a visit next time. 

I'll be sure to heat up the teakettle

and bake a little treat! 

xoxo