Lovely end of August day–sunny and in the low 70’s. The mornings and evenings are cooler as we prepare for the Harvest/Autumn season to arrive.

The maples are starting to change from: green to yellows, oranges and reds. When my dog and I walk in the village of Croghan, there are places where we step through the fallen leaves. The sounds of the leaves bring me back to my childhood and I smile.

Everything is early this summer–the leaves, flowers, apples, pumpkins, fruits, corn, vegetables and cuttings of hay. There has been massive flooding in Lewis County and neighboring counties. People have worked hard to repair bridges, roads, homes, restaurants, stores and farms. I love living here because individuals take care of one another.

I am grateful my father’s health is improving each day. We talk more and listen to one another’s stories. Together we lend a helping hand. There is a good balance of time together, alone with friends and family. Next week I am looking forward to returning to substitute teaching at Beaver River Central School District.

As I grow older, the days pass by more quickly. I cherish my friends, family and talking with most strangers.

Time and distance with honest and compassionate words from me are healing a friendship that was broken over a month ago. My close girlfriends and I stay close. My sister and brother-in-law are visiting from Colorado next weekend and for the week. My son will be coming home on the weekends from college in Syracuse. His girlfriend will share a meal with us. My heart is singing knowing our home will be full again.