Aspens glowing in afternoon light

Ranger and I noticed how the golden aspens were glowing in the late afternoon light and he recently sat so sweetly for a photograph (but in reality he was staring at small pieces of bacon and banana I held up for him to see and then eat — such a doll. ).

The leaves lingered longer than usual this fall, I think, as the cheerful autumn air remained warm, mild, and welcoming for weeks.

I have truly savored this autumn season. Yet it’s profoundly difficult to articulate how much I’m grieving in the empty nest era. It’s a strange and unnatural transition with a lonely deep ache in my soul. It’s only been three months since all 3 girls moved away to college.

After 22 years of mothering, I’m still a mess of emotions. I’ve always been one to try to live fully in each moment and season — the pain or frustration, along with blessings or successes.

I am glad my daughters are pursuing incredible degrees and they love what they are studying and are having the monumentally fabulous college experiences they need in life.

Since I’m being transparent — maybe I got addicted to the busy of being there for them and supporting so many of their pursuits, that an accompanying identity was slightly misplaced (but really treasured).

So now I have more time… I have a few short stories being published soon. And I had the opportunity to volunteer for my favorite sport, soccer!

The men’s soccer season at school this fall was the best, and I truly enjoyed working the clock and scoreboard at all the home games, and cheering on the team for in-town away games and the playoffs. It kept me positively busy, supporting a great program. Especially rewarding to see the team grow over the last 3 months.

Michael Scott always found autumn to be the most contemplative of seasons, and I wholeheartedly agree.

This coming weekend, our three girls will return home for the entire Thanksgiving week, and I am thrilled!! I anticipate our time together sharing meals, conversations, and laughter — and I look forward to our home being full and cozy for the holiday.