FALL. UGG BOOTS. SWEATER WEATHER. HARD PASS.

In just about 20 days, many of you will joyfully welcome fall. You know the drill: the crisp air, cozy sweaters, chunky Ralph Lauren cable knits, insulated leggings, and those oh-so-tempting UGG boots. You'll sip on a sickeningly sweet latte that’s overpriced but somehow perfectly fitting for the season. I get it—at least I try.

For us in Virginia, it feels like we leaped straight from winter into summer, barely catching a whiff of spring. The heat and humidity have been relentless, the kind where a shower seems pointless, and no amount of mousse or hairspray can save us from looking like drowned rats. It’s been hot & sticky. We’ve dealt with gardens and flowers wilting, berry bushes producing scant results, and our once-vibrant landscapes turning into crunchy, brown messes. Rivers ran low, creeks dried up, and grass ceased to grow. Even farmers had to start their hay harvest far earlier than usual. I get it. The struggle has been real.

But here’s the thing…

Every day I woke up to a sunrise that felt like a promise. The sky ignited with colors, birds sang their morning songs, and the trees and flowers bloomed with a vibrancy only summer can offer. The scent of fresh-cut grass and the sound of lawn mowers became a symphony of the season. Evenings were filled with the songs of tree frogs and cicadas. Kada, my loyal shaddow, and I embraced every scorching hot walk with enthusiasm. We watered and watered our yard, determined not to let the heat win. Sure, my water bill went up, but every drop was worth it. We were living our best lives, making the most of every sweltering day.

As summer sped by, I had to face an incredibly painful goodbye. I promised Kada that her last day would be as good as it could be. We spent it together in the air-conditioned comfort of the sunroom, cuddled up and watching the green grass, flowers, and the warm promise of tomorrow. A hummingbird visited the feeder for the first time that day, and as I held Kada and said my final goodbyes, it stayed just long enough for me to take a deep breath. I saw that hummingbird as a sign from her, a gentle reminder that summers love was still there in sorrow.  That same litte hummer has been back to see me, a dear friend, and my sister.  She stays long enough to say “Just know”, two words near and dear to my heart and from my friend David Perry. 

I’m a sun chaser. My pets have always shared that love for the sun. Spring and summer are my seasons; they fill me up, make me feel like my Mom is right there beside me planting, digging and pulling weeds, and bring me a sense of accomplishment through hard work in the garden. Thunderstorms are magical, a better show than anything on TV or in books. Summer is where I thrive.  #sunchaser

As fall approaches, a significant part of me will feel like it’s dying.  Its sad. Watching flowers and plants wither, feeling the ground go cold and lifeless, and adjusting to the darkness can be tough. I'll rely on my Amazon light therapy lamp (HIGHLY SUGGESTED TO THOSE WHO KNOW THIS STRUGGLE-) to kick out seasonal depression and distract myself with crafts, friends, and football. I’ll find solace in pots of soup and the company of those who share my struggle. If you’re one of those who find fall and winter challenging, know that you’re not alone. Call me, we’ll bless out the darkness together.  With a warm fire and lots of blankets. 

So as you bundle up in your sweaters and embrace the cooler weather, remember that for those of us who live for the sun, the change of seasons can be bittersweet. Cherish the warmth while it lasts and find comfort in the little things that make the darker months bearable.

Here’s to finding light in every season and making the most of each day, no matter how the weather turns.  We’re all just chasing our own versions of sunshine.

Love & Light

P.S. I sure do miss you Kada.

Link to the light referenced above:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XXNGC19/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1