I Can

With the change of seasons, both figurative and literal, I feel my focus shifting. The nest is empty once again and summer is waning. Autumn can't get here fast enough for me. The potager garden is the thing keeping me out there watering when I'm tempted to let the garden die a slow, parched death while I sit inside under a fan. The idea of falling leaves and brisk days feels a little bit like a lie right now, so I remind myself that there is something to love about every season. Even if that something is just tomatoes and margaritas. This heat could make me cranky if I let it. 

But then I remember...there is still a lot to love about this season of life right now. In between the frustration, heartache, sorrow and blazing summer heat.

I can still wake up in the morning grateful to be alive, grateful for another day. Instead of going through my days and life on autopilot I can cherish the chance to make homemade beer bread one day and ricotta cheese the next. I can roast some garlic and spread it on a thick BLT sandwich with garden fresh tomatoes, remoulade and ripe avocado and serve it to my girls for an unexpected family lunch.

I can spend some time in my studio, losing myself in creative pursuits either alone or with a friend, the hours passing without any awareness, while I work in an inspired stupor.

 I can pour myself a cup of tea, shut the door and have some quiet time planning and  journaling.

I can go on a spontaneous brunch date with my best guy, have dinner with friends and make homemade lobster rolls that remind me of being on vacation. 

I can cuddle up and read a book, watch a movie or find a new tv show. 

Life is easier if we focus on the cans instead of the can'ts. 

I can choose to have a life full of days well lived, moments cherished and small joys observed while appreciating the things that are right in front of me.