Into hibernation we go...

 The summer has been long and reluctant to leave, just the way I like it. But the temperatures are steadily growing cooler and the days are steadily getting shorter, so I think this will be the last of my posts for this year. Thank you for all the kind comments and responses you have sent! It means so much that you enjoy reading what I post here.

There is a little chipmunk that lives under my back porch, and I've named him Squirt. He comes out each morning and perches on the edge of the deck, scoping out the yard and nibbling on bird seed that has fallen to the ground. This morning, I was watching him through the window and realized that he was looking right at me and making quite a racket, a sort of chirping-cheeping noise that rambled on like he had a lot to say. I found myself wishing I could understand him. Maybe he's getting some things off his chest before he nestles down for a cozy hibernation?

A lot happened this summer - a lot of really good and beautiful things! Through trial and error, prayer and ingenuity, my "summer of faith experiment" is getting better - more exciting, more fulfilling, more purposeful. It's time to take a little break to rest, reflect, and recharge - to hibernate, like Squirt. Next summer I'll return to this blog with new insights, projects, and plans. Until then, I'll share my hopes...

I hope to take more walks this fall in my neighborhood, rolling over acorns and dry leaves just to hear them pop and crackle, certainly bundled in a cozy sweater and scarf, and possibly a hat too. I hope to work on the next draft of my novel by the light of a candle when the sun sets at 4pm and have it ready to present to publishers by next spring. I hope to drink many more cups of tea and bake many more cookies and scones, to share with those who come to visit. And much like Luke's Diner on Gilmore Girls, I will plug in the twinkle lights that adorn my front window, and I'll leave the porch light on, so you know you are always welcome at the Salt Life Cottage!



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