May We Always Keep Learning

It feels like I was just riding in triple digit temps with the heat index, and now I'm excited because I see days on the radar that say 67 degrees.  Base layer weather is quickly approaching!  I love the changing leaves in the fall.  I love the smells.  I love that the bugs disappear.  I could do without the cold!

I'm still trying to fit in a ride as much as I can, as I know once the trails get wet in the colder temps they won't dry out quickly for riding. There are more paved trail and road rides in my near future....
I wanted to take my daughter to see a movie this last weekend.  I told her I couldn't afford to get any snacks or soda to go with the flick.  She informed me that she didn't have an interest in going if she couldn't have popcorn and soda.  I was so pissed. I really wanted to see this movie.  And it seemed such an ungrateful move.  My mind raced back to my own childhood and how grateful I would have been for an opportunity like this at her age.

Then rational thought came back and I decided if she wouldn't go I would go alone or with someone.  I invited the neighbor, and told my daughter I was taking someone who appreciated the offer for a movie without snacks.  Then I told her she would be watching the neighbors son for free while I took her to the show.  Talk about being elated!  I got to see the show after all, with a friend and a bag of our own snacks. And my daughter learned a valuable lesson.

I guess I'm still learning those lessons as well....

Learning to be content with what I have.  Seeing the beauty in what's around me.  Choosing to live in the moment.  Being grateful for what I've been given.

Smiling about 60 degree weather.  Taking time to look around and truly notice the beauty of Fall sweeping across the hills, the woods, and the suburbs.  Finding and creating moments of laughter and smiles with my kids.  Working with purpose.  Holding on to it all.  And recounting all that I am grateful for.  That's a long list when I really think about it; one that pondered always leaves my heart feeling lighter.