New beginnings...

I know that fall in upstate New York is the precursor to a very long, cold winter, but September still always represents a rebirth to me. The fresh, cold air makes me feel alive. Watching the little ones go off to their first days of school with new backpacks and new shoes makes me nostalgic for all of those firsts so many years ago. Although I generally did not love school, I was always so hopeful on those first few days that THIS would be a great year.

It's also my birth month. I have found, as I near the last year of my fourth decade, that most people my age do not enjoy acknowledging and celebrating their birthdays much, but I am that exception. I like to celebrate as much and as many times as possible for the whole month of September, and I justify every treat I allow myself during this month -- from new boots to a trunkload of pumpkins -- by saying "it's my birthday!" In fact, I have started referring to September 1 as opening day for my birthday festivities, which I gladly accept and celebrate through midnight, September 30.

This year, however, I've been in a bit of a funk during my favorite month, with worries about my current joblessness, and with that, questions about what I want to do when I grow up.

I know at least some of the answers. And they involve some big (scary) risks and some big (exciting) changes, to live the life that feeds my soul, as well as my body. I will be sharing more very soon...

Meanwhile,  a glimpse at a perfect day...  the trunk of my car, filled with the festive colors of fall...