October in the Ozarks

The garden has basically stopped producing, but there's been no frost, so the plants are still beautiful and green.  Some of the trees are beginning to change color and there is a crisp nip in the morning air.  Autumn was never my favorite season until I moved to the Ozarks.  October in the Ozarks is just beautiful!

Today finds me looking out the window like a grounded child.  I want to go out and play, but there is work to be done.  Some days I smile to myself and realize this whole "grown up" thing wasn't exactly what I was expecting as a kid.  So, I'm going to take a few minutes here and get my priorities in order and establish an attitude of gratitude, instead of staring out the window, longingly.

I have a wonderful life.  I am truly blessed in ways far beyond what I could ask or imagine.  A friend of mine who is a pastor at a local church told me he'd like to ask me several questions about my lifestyle.  He and his wife are planning to visit later this week and we'll go from there.  Although many think this lifestyle appears to be "roughing" it, I assure you, it's pretty posh.  I have electricity, running water, and indoor plumbing.  Many around the world do not.  I also have a fantastic schedule, except on days with beautiful weather and I have work indoors, but . . .  Actually, the week of Sukkot just ended and I guess I just wasn't ready to come back indoors yet!  Back to being thankful.

Whether I work indoors or outdoors, the dress code is pretty casual.  I do have several skirts that have now been relegated to chore clothes, and tops that are too worn out for town, or stained from a canning splash are just fine for working in the garden, tending the herd, or typing at the computer.  Working at home is truly all it's cracked up to be!   Laundry can be going and dinner can be started long before my work day ends.  I'm terribly thankful to not have to fight traffic to and from work, only to get home and have housework waiting for me.  Driving isn't my favorite thing either, and I certainly don't have to do it often.

Abba knew His plan for me when He formed me.  My work is so varied, which is perfect for me.  Now that I've come to a fuller understanding of the seasons and living off the land, not only is autumn in the Ozarks absolutely beautiful, but it's also the reminder that the laid back time of winter is at hand.  It's only a matter of weeks til it will be time for a pot o' somethin' simmering on the stove and a fire crackling in the fireplace.  With winter coming, October in the Ozarks really should be enjoyed outdoors.