Okay, Autumn has actually fallen...and I love it.

The cooler weather brings out the better part of my nature. Not that I am not good natured....most of the time, but the oppressive heat of summer takes the better part of that good nature and hides it away a good deal. Having been born and raised in the Florida sunshine, one would think I fared well in the heat.  I have never, even as a young'un runnin' barefoot in the hot sand, tolerated the heat well. Likewise, one would think having been born on a glorious July morning...I would like the summers...but, alas, I do not.

I think also, the cooler weather signals the onset of holiday time...and, that makes me a little nostalgic and eager to experience the special times.  From Halloween through the first of the new year, I am a little more sentimental and sometimes even a little bit giddy as the little girl in me, on some level, still awaits the wonder and magic of Christmas.  Thanksgiving...I have much for which to be grateful...but mostly, I believe, I am grateful that Christmas is nearly here. 

Gratitude encompasses much of my world all of the time. My children and grandchildren top the list. My family in general--I suppose make the two top spaces...at least. God has given me much, and I am not unaware that He is my benefactor. When I watch the news, take a peek at many of the world situations, and see how many people must live due to oppressive governments, poverty, the economy in our own country, I know I have much for which to be thankful. When I see the want...of sustenance, shelter, companionship...I know I have an abundance of such commodies, and I am acutely aware of how very blessed I am.

The cooler autumn nights are perfect for turning off the air conditioner and saving money...but mostly for sleeping with the windows open and breathing in nature's wonderful breezes. There is much to be said for snuggling down in warm linens with a quilt on top of you.  The rest is deeper, the sleep much more gratifying, and mere act is so nurturing to our spirits and our bodies...of course it is....try it.

Even the sunshine is nicer. Feeling the warmth of the sun on my face when buffered by the cooler surface temperatures is another way to know that God is in His heaven and smiles down upon His children.

Have you ever wondered what God does all day?  Well, neither have I.  I do think, though, He sometimes wears an Izod shirt with a big "G" embroidered on the upper left chest....Well, you know for "God."  Well, if I were God, I would be glad to let everyone know....Now, I can actually claim to be a domestic "Goddess," but somehow the paths are very different....God's "G" would be green...Why?  I don't know....I am sure my "G" would be lavender or blue...Why?  Because it can be. Now that we have that out of the way.....

I know I told you in a previous blog what I plan to do for Christmas this year...and I am looking forward to it. A few days away from work in a mountain hideaway...far from the maddening crowd, will work wonders for my attitude, my physical body, and, I am sure, my creativity...I'll get back to you on that.

I would tell you I would be comfortable "roughing it " in that mountain cabin...but I would be lying...My idea of  "roughing it"  would be no microwave and a black and white T.V.  I like to camp out...but I would like to camp out in Maui....Marriott........yep, that would be a real shame, wouldn't it?  Well, someone has to keep Marriott in the black...why not me?!  No chopping wood, no outdoor bathroom facilities, no sleeping in a sleeping bag or tent...I want a cabin...yes...but, I was thinking of a nice split level with large decks and open rooms, glass front to take in the view, large screen T.V., fireplace supplied with split wood, stocked refrigerator...etc..located not too far from a really nice restaurant. Hey, don't laugh...we all have our crosses to bear....

I have been awake and working since about 3:30 A.M. it is now after seven...time to get started for the day. But then I did go to bed early....But it will be another day in paradise....trying to make a living...and breathing in the wonderful Autumn air!