Well. It's officially been fall for a week. I feel...happier, freer, lighter. As I've mentioned to anyone that will listen my whole life - autumn is my favorite season. Hands down. I had a lovely summer this year; I really, truly did. Several trips, more than enough concerts, precious memories made with cherished friends, but now it's time for all things pumpkin - dusk, scented candles, hot cider, sweet potato pie, and everything scary and beautiful.

As always, self-reflection is on my mind. In this season of harvest, what is my personal harvest? What have I brought into manifestation this year? How can I celebrate myself for hard work completed this year? My personal emotional harvest has been bountiful this year. I've really invested in the relationships that are important to me; I've taken time to discern which relationships feed me and what relationships allow me to feed into them. I am so emotionally fulfilled and nourished. Last fall I ended regular therapy with my therapist - we both agreed I was ready to move on. I have taken special care to make sure that my mental health is still a priority, since I'm "on my own" now. I feel better than I ever have as an adult. I've spent this last year nurturing myself; and I can see the results - not just in my relationships or my outlook, but in little things; like how often I'm able to do the things I enjoy, the size of my waistline, how rarely I feel the need to vent, the way others respond to me and my energy. I've manifested many things this year; work I love, more opportunities professionally and socially, my "ideal" body - my life is the closest it's ever been to what I imagined my life would be like as a child. How will I celebrate? I practice gratitude every day for at least five minutes morning and night; I never want to lose sight of the things I have. I will spend this season reveling in my bounty.

This fall I'm really focusing on just enjoying life - it's been a really weird year, I think we can all agree, and I'd rather end this year on a high note with optimism for what's ahead than go all Game of Thrones "Winter is Coming". I'm thinking a lot about texture - chunky sweaters, smooth faux leathers, soft velvets - and translating those textures into actions and emotions. Giving warmth and softness to those I love. Lots of writing. Warm drinks and pastries. Tricks and treats. Sad new wave songs. Old movies. Really focusing on what I love and letting everything else fall away like an old crunchy orange leaf. Settling in for the winter ahead.