carried by mountain memories...and missing you all bunches

It’s cold outside, barely above freezing temperatures, and I am loving the unseasonable chill in the air. Memories of cold mountain air and dancing autumn leaves are carrying me through the days. After a delicious weekend in the Blue Ridge mountains, I returned to the “real world” with a newfound sense of aliveness. Even ten hour work days followed by long nights of studying cannot ruin the vitality I experienced hiking through hills covered in falling leaves. Standing on the path, the leaves pirouetting about my head, the rush of colors overtaking my senses, I was filled with life. Moments when the black and white and gray of daily life was overwhelmed by blood red and punchy melon and yellow, gold, ember leaves swirling and leaping and tumbling in ecstasy. Moments when the icy air was awakening rather than biting, the view of blue mountain tops gracing my horizon bringing solace to a withered spirit.
And this afternoon, sitting fireside, feeling the warmth of the flames heat my skin, I cannot help but think of the goodness in this life. The simple things that bring such pleasure. Once again, I am reminded that I must allow myself these tiny pleasures. I must stop getting lost in the maze of obligations and revel in these days when I find myself surrounded by beauty and in awe of the moments. So while I should be studying now, I am taking a break to rest, to rejuvenate, to remind myself that life’s little beauties are all around me.

(Another reminder…I wish I had more time these days to come here and let the words flow, to release the feelings, to bring my presence to this wonderful circle of beautiful women whom I cherish so deeply…please know that despite my absence, you are all in my heart every day and I am sending lots of love to you all:)