Take Time to Enjoy and Appreciate Autumn Moments

“The pale stars were sliding into their places. The whispering of the leaves was almost hushed. All about them it was still and shadowy and sweet. It was that wonderful moment when, for lack of a visible horizon, the not yet darkened world seems infinitely greater—a moment when anything can happen, anything be believed in.”
― Olivia Howard Dunbar, The Shell of Sense

I love this quote from book The Shell of Sense because it really captures how I feel about dusk during the autumn and winter months.  I have always been mesmerized by that moment when the sun is setting, lights are on in kitchens, and there is such warmth and inviting spirit throughout neighborhoods in a city.

Dusk and dawn are by far my favorite times of day.

I just want to remind you as we enter a busy holiday season, to take time to appreciate the moments which are available this time of year.  It might be the warmth of dusk, or lights decorating a home, or a child sitting on Santa’s lap with delight, or new recipes in a cookie exchange, or a faithful Santa’s helper ringing the Salvation Army bell, or the aromas from candles or Christmas tea.  Take a moment and be present in the experience.

I think we all tend to rush through the season and then wonder where it went.  Experience it. Do not allow it to pass you by.

This dusk photo was taken as I arrived home from work. I am also taking a moment to appreciate this find… This is the blue Chico’s coat I bought for $29 during a July clearance sale and I love it!  I styled it this day with Chico’s camel So Slimming pants, an older leopard scarf and my brown Aerosole booties.  This outfit, my porch decorations, and dusk had me smiling at the end of a very long work day.

What are the moments you appreciate the most this time of year?  What will stop you in your tracks and cause you to think Do Not Let This Pass By!  Please share……………………….then……..

KEEP SMILING!

Here are some more gift ideas.  If anyone has me on their list, I love the Hallmark Channel Coffee Mug!

14 Comments

  1. First of all, I love your blue coat with the leopard scarf! That’s beautiful! That Hallmark mug – isn’t it just perfect? I love to cozy up with a blanket and watch the old Christmas moves from the 1930’s and 40’s! It seems like each season holds its own beauty. When it’s summer and warm outside, I like that it stays lighter later, but when winter comes and the days are short, I like that because it’s cozy. We are already having winter weather here in Ohio, snow and temps in the 20’s and 30’s. Since we have snow and sometimes freezing rain, what will stop me in my tracks is the snow on the trees, and also the ice and frost on the trees. It’s beautiful. I always take time to stop and appreciate the beauty we have in nature, no matter what season. God’s creation is more splendid than anything man-made!

  2. I must agree with you and Karen – God’s creation is the most splendid and I am so grateful He chooses to bless us in that way. Autumn too is my favorite season (along with winter) and the sunrises and sunsets have been magnificent this year especially. Your outfit is perfect for this time of year in the south where we really only had a few days of fall weather.

  3. Our sunrises are gorgoeus this time of year but my grandson’s giggle is what stops me in my tracks. That and a starry night reminds me to slow down and enjoy each moment.

  4. May I ask what size Chico’s So Sliming pants do you wear now? I think you have lost weight, have you not? Looking great!

  5. I love looking up at the sky on a dark clear morning when I go out to retrieve my newspaper. The stars & moon are so very bright & look magnificent.
    It will be my privilege to ring the Salvation Army bell at a local store a week from Saturday. I have long supported the work of this great organization & am looking forward to helping them.
    BTW, your outfit is great!

  6. Esther, you are my new best friend!! I have lost a very little. Sometimes I wear a Chico’s size 2 and sometimes a size 3…these are a 3! But you made me feel good!

  7. You have inspired me….I want to ring the bell some day! Good for you, Betty! Also, thank you for the compliment!

  8. Pam, I would have never thought to wear an animal print scarf with blue, but I love it! You just look so happy, comfortable and sparkly! I love that blue coat!! I would have bought it in heartbeat, especially at that price.

  9. Thanks Susan! When I found the coat this past summer, I asked the sales woman if it was a mistake!!! It was a great find. Thanks!

  10. My favorite is the sound my one year old grandson makes when he’s delighted with something…he trickles in his throat like a bird. I always look forward to getting silver dollar coins at the bank so my 7 grandchildren can put them in the Salvation Army kettle whenever we see one. They make a clang that dollar bills don’t! It’s the real start of the season and they never forget it’s love and giving we celebrate.

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