Sometimes you find a sweet surprise when you pause and look out the window.  Yesterday, I looked out and smiled watching my girls playing just across the street.  My youngest gracefully tip-toe leaping, flitting about, making “wings” with her arms, and imagination soaring across the expanses of the neighborhood front yards.  My oldest standing on the neighbor’s tree swing, gently swaying about while laughing with another neighbor- friend.  Yes, this is what we dreamt of for our kids, of a simple time where it is safe enough and slow enough to soak in the splendors of childhood.  These were the memories we longed for them to have.  I took in a deep breath of contentment, the white flag of surrender waving victoriously.

And then I looked at the tree and saw the tiniest hint of autumn– a leaf tipped with touches of red.  I was so excited, because I’ve been told by everyone here how breathtaking the fall is.  And there it was, I saw autumn’s whispers, and had to grab my camera and just stroll on our street.  I found more surprises, waiting for me like treasures on the trees, and I had to share them with you.  Yes, autumn is on the way.  We’ve felt it with the humidity breaking, and cool breezes briefly stopping by; but now I could see it. I’ve been told the mountain turns a few weeks earlier than the rest of the valley, and I’ll keep you posted when autumn is welcomed in full.  Until then, I’m going to remember to keep looking out my window.