Summer begins its slow fade into autumn, and our harvest reminds me of my abundance.

My apple trees are heavy, peaches overwhelm every inch of counter space, and every meal I make.
Fat heirloom tomatoes can be eaten at the peak of ripeness with only salt and pepper.
And, my well-earned tan lines will begin to blend into the freckled skin of my shoulders.
And, my life is full of health and laughter – more bounty than I could ever dare to ask for.

Autumn nostalgia sweeps over every corner of my home …
Boys going back to school
Jackets coming off their storage hooks
Down comforters aired-out off linen closet shelves.
And, one more mark against the stairwell door,
Six inches! No wonder I can’t keep you in shoes.

This morning was chilly; that soft bite of September that still warms up by noon.
This evening will be busy: homework, football practice, back-to-school night.

Autumn becomes the metronome by which the rhythm of family life moves.
Until Christmas break, and Easter’s flirtatious Spring, and lazy summer comes again.