Summer to Fall

Growing older, the seasons turn faster. Summer comes and goes in a warm breeze, falling leaves left in her wake. Amid the bustling and busy weeks of summer, there are moments of laughter, sunshine, joy, dancing, and meaningful time spent with friends, family, and loved ones. These days blow away, lost in time, like a tear-off paper calendar giving into the wind.

There's no fighting summer’s passing, especially in the Great Lakes state, regardless of how hard I’ve tried. As a true summer lover, I haven’t always welcomed a chill in the air. So much so, there have been times I’ve felt sour resentment at the sheer thought of winter's arrival.

Recently, however, I’ve changed my tune. This current summer has been an exhausting one. Fun, exciting, and full of great memories, but also overwhelmingly taxing on my well-being.

(I feel the need to quickly note: current events surely haven’t helped this, especially mentally. On the flip side, climate change has, considering September seems to be the new August).

Today, I come to you as someone who currently craves the months of solitude ahead. Would I love another beach day in my system? Absolutely. Would I, dare I say: rather have three weekends in a row cozied up with my partner and pup? I just might dare say so.

Perhaps it's just part of getting older, but each year, I'm gradually feeling more positive about the hibernation months ahead. Slower days allow us to pause for reflection, self-care, and connection. It’s definitely time for a breather, even if it comes with chilly temps and some grey skies. After all, the purpose of winter months is to recharge in preparation for the growth and light that warmer weather eventually brings.

As the seasons fly by and grow into years, I’m learning to embrace the essence of each one. For the first time, cozy sweaters, quiet weekends, and ever-so-slightly chilly breezes seem to call my name.