It never fails. I grab Casey and leave the house one way — tense, frowning down at the ground, mind racing with worries about kids and schedules and to do lists. 45 minutes and 3 miles later I return a different person — calm, face relaxed, looking up at my surroundings and, above all, grateful.
And because I’m still pleasantly warm and enjoying the slightly intoxicating after effects of a bit of exercise, I’d like to share my favorite things about an October walk.
– Crisp, fragrant air.
– Casey kicking up her heels, ears flopping as she chases busy squirrels.
– The sound of dry leaves crunching underfoot.
– The brilliant color of reds, rusts, and golds against a backdrop of gray-brown earth and tree trunks.
– No bugs! If you’ve ever walked in a New England forest in the summer, you’ll appreciate this one.
– Casey smiling up at me, wearing a silly orange vest that makes her look like a canine superhero.
– The bright, airy quality of the forest without its leaves.
– The feel of a cool breeze on my face.
– The smell of wood smoke on the air.
– Knowing that our home will be warm and cozy when I return.
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” — L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
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In 1990 I discovered New England in the fall and have made it back every October since then. This is only the second time since then that I haven't been able to come back and your list makes me miss it a little less as it almost feels like I'm there. Unless you have been there in the fall it's hard to understand the effect it has on your soul. Thanks so much for the post.
As a quilter myself,I love the designs of your quilts.
Thanks for sharing.
Jan
janbarr122@gmail.com