Hi Reader,

With every year, comes a deeper appreciation for summer's slow transition into autumn. I relish the chilly mornings with its beam of warm sun that meets my face and the early fog that quietly lifts as dawn breaks. The tall, twisty wildflowers have turned brown, their seeds like little puffs of cloud, waiting to let go with the next breeze. Leaves fall slowly from the big maple tree, one by one, spotted orange and red.

There's something inside of me that wants to join the flowers and the trees. By the time I turn my calendar over to September, I'm ready to take a deep breath and slowly let it out, releasing the old leaves in my life — the unnecessary busyness, distractions, and old routines, only in place because I thought they served me well. And perhaps they did — at some point in the past.

Now, it's as if I'm only hanging on for fear of the unknown.

But what if I let go and the wind takes me here? Or over there?

In times of uncertainty, when seasons change, it's easy to forget that I am the tree, rooted deep in the earth. I'm not the leaves, carried by the wind without any say, without any care. My roots grow deep, strengthened by the resilience I've gained from weathering life's storms, strengthened by grace, daily gratitude, a drive to show kindness, a growing faith, and a continued hope.

May this autumn be the start of a new year for you. A beautiful new chapter.

May you find the courage to let go. Discover the creativity and strength to form new patterns and connections. Practice gratitude and watch your heart be transformed. Rest in the hope that you do not need to step forward alone. Know where you are rooted and allow yourself to grow.

Gentle Reflection Questions

• What are the "old leaves" in your life right now — habits, routines, distractions — that no longer serve you? How might letting go create space for something new to grow?
• What keeps you grounded when life feels uncertain or unpredictable?
• Are there any new patterns or connections you feel called to nurture this season? What small step can you take today?
• What's something you're looking forward to this autumn?

Lastly, I invite you to join me in my latest blog post, as I venture out to my small town library's "Silent Reading Party."

I, myself, didn't know what to expect, but I'm so grateful I went...

​How a "Silent Reading Party" Inspired More Than Just Books​

Thank you for being here, Reader.

May you find peace and renewal as you step through these early days of autumn.

With gratitude and love,

P.S. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me directly — I'd love to hear from you. Introduce yourself and share any of your own reflections on this transition from summer to autumn. Simply reply to this email, and your message will go directly to my inbox.

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