Could it be that we are in the 10th month of 2017?  The months kaleidoscope together in mosaics of sound, smell, and color.  As I waited for the train this morning, I noticed that the sun still sleeps, not a beam in sight. Yet, the beauty of the morning cannot be denied. The photo I took this morning shows a pink rumor of sunshine destined to grace my day.

First responders and communities in Puerto Rico who tirelessly work to help the people devastated by hurricane Maria. I work with about 10% Puerto Rican’s. The agony of not knowing is heart-rending. Finally, friends hear about family members. Still, electricity and communications are scarce. Yet, Aldi delivered survival packages to individuals: a week’s worth of food and water. Thank you, Aldi.

Here are a few more things I pause to ponder and give thanks.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]. Rails to Trails in Pennsylvania. CeCi and I, along with the kids, experienced great walking trails as a results of this organization. Here’s a quick look at just a portion of the Allegheny Trail.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Kimberley at Avallon’s Voice, who told me more of her story, and is a wonderful supporter of mine.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  A quiet breakfast with Coco and Loved-One.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Wildflowers in Autumn’s couture.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]. Senior discount for movie tickets and popcorn.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Loved One, savior of the cilantro-gone-to-seed, simply because, “the bees love it so much.”

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Group cell phone plans and the mathematicians and fiscal conservatives who jointly decided that the status quo is great.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Twins harmonizing in the back seat just because they like the way their voices sound together.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Wrestler #1 living close enough to help in a transportation conflict.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  The crunch of dry leaves under my feet.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  John Oliver and Last Week Tonight. He makes me laugh and educates me at the same time.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].Facebook friends who offer differing opinions without vitriol.

[icon name=”arrow-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””].  Driving toward a beautiful sunset. (Figuratively and literally.)

What makes you stop and smile as the days get shorter? Please leave a comment. Your thoughts make me stop and consider my many blessings, some of which I’ve overlooked.