These bring me joy.

• Awakening to the poplar tree, framed by my window, glowing as if from within, as its newly yellow leaves catch the sunshine.
• Coming downstairs to the scent of pumpkin spice candles burning... and the awareness that Rusty lit them to bring me pleasure.
• The first fire of the season, and sharing it with Cassidy as she enjoys her autumn snack of warm apple cider and popcorn.
• The smile on Cailin's face when she skips to the car after play rehearsal, and the exuberance she returns to our home with her arrival.
• The silence of home after the girls are off to school, and the sweetness of several hours devoted to accomplishing some overdue tasks.
• The racket of giggles and chatter, and even bickering, when my sweet girls return home.
• Laughing hysterically with Cassidy as our hamsters race around our bathtub while their cage is being cleaned.
• Decorating the front porch with fall decorations, and Cassidy saying coming to our house makes people feel welcome.
• Feeling guilty for making grilled cheese and soup from a can for dinner, and then being told by each of the girls that my grilled cheese sandwiches are the best ever.
• Notes of encouragement from my Dad.
• Calls of encouragement from my Mom.
• A stack of books in every room, and Cailin asking me to awaken her early so she can read before school.

Home. Family. Faith.

Life is good.