Sunday, September 18, 2016

Happy September?

Technically it's still summer for a few more days, but I'm already struggling with what I call my "seasonal sadness."  Autumn often finds me feeling sad that summer has ended and that the bitterly, cold winter is coming soon.

Any of you experience this type of seasonal sadness?  How do you cope with it?

Outside my window...

Baldface Hornet's Nest
This large nest is hanging in the maple tree in front of my house.  I have only seen one in pictures.  I estimate it to be at least 12 inches long and wide.  I asked my neighbor if he's ever dealt with a nest like this.  He told me to stay away from it because they can be very aggressive.  No need to worry about that - there's absolutely no way I'm climbing a ladder to get to that nest!  Then he said it was beautiful and he'd like to have it.  Apparently some people like to decorate their homes with these nests.  I told him he could have it, but he'd have to get it himself :)

 
This year, the Praying Mantis' have been everywhere.  I've rarely seen them in years past, but I've seen one almost every day for the past several weeks.


This little Tree Frog sat on the window ledge outside my office for a whole morning.  It was a great distraction!


Finally...

(I blocked out the baby's name)

...some stitching.  My niece is having a baby soon and I designed and stitched this piece for the nursery.  My son-in-law made the frame and my daughter did the staining and finishing.  I'm really pleased with how it turned out and my niece loved it.

Other news...

We had a great vacation and trip to visit our youngest daughter.  We were also able to visit Washington, DC, Virginia Beach and spend time with my cousin.  I would have loved to spend a whole month visiting DD and my cousin.

This past week brought heartache to our family and community.  A family friend that had been missing since August 22 was found in a nearby community.  Not many details have been published as there is an ongoing homicide investigation and it's all just heartbreaking.

Our oldest daughter is having medical issues that several doctors have been unable to diagnose.  I'm so worried about her and asking for prayers.

Thanks so much for spending some time with me!