Fall bliss.......

Fall is super magical right? Just such a blessed time in the calendar year to soak up the colors and activities. I think it is my absolute favorite......always drawn to a fall pallet of colors in my life, and the entire season resonates deeply with me as we head into Christmas.....also my favorite;-) So yesterday was simply spectacular.....no other words really to describe it......I had been looking forward to it all week....knowing that last year it was so gorgeous there, but that this year the leaves were even better, and that we were going to have the perfect weather! I was right on all accounts! Being a part of Madeline's school community, fills my heart so......a bunch of great people with common ideas about many things and ideals for our children.....and getting to spend time with everybody is always great! So we hiked this amazing hike.....it was a little under 5 miles, and the entire thing was spectacular.....some of it not easy......definitely a challenging hike......but so worth it.....the views along the way were just amazing.....and the kids had such a good time! I had intended last year to return to Minnewaska State park and hike again before coming this year and it just never happened.....I would like to try this time to make that a reality.....Maybe during winter......I took the kids hiking last winter, but want to do even more......hiking during a crisp winter day with the ice and snow in the trees is amazing too.....Yesterday I could tell Mads is still struggling some with whatever she is going through.....she is trying to find her way.....it is hard because I see her in me for sure.....she is an old soul, no question and this world is tough when you view the world that way....especially childhood....lots of times it leaves you feeling like you are on the outside.....she thinks deeply.....is bright and deeply emotional......but I am grateful I can help her as she navigates.....equipping her with the tools she needs because I "get her" so I will keep arming her with strategies and helping to build her confidence, so she is free to be HER in this world, unapologetically and totally comfortable to do so..... yesterday was just amazing and a great way to kick off the weekend! We have a family birthday party today and are excited to savor this fall season a little bit longer:)