Hello, Autumn.

When the leaves of the big maple in the goat pasture start to lose their vibrant green and slowly make the transition into fiery red and orange, and the wild apple trees bow to the ground with their heavy burdens of fruit, I know it is just about time to start wearing my favorite sweaters out to chores and baking apple pies. 

Yesterday, September 22nd, marks the autumn equinox - the official first day of the dearly loved season. The chill in the air and the pumpkins on our porch confirm that, fall is here! 

The animals feel it, too! Our young buck goat, Malachi, is starting to grow in his fuzzy winter coat, and the hens are slowing down their laying as they transition into their winter pause as they focus more of their energy on keeping warm. Even the bunnies are enjoying the cooler weather. And of course, it is the time of season when ALL the animals expect to get apple treats! 

Not only are the apples in season, but the raspberries we planted this spring have their first berries and blossoms on them! Our wild cranberry patch is also covered in the small, bright red and shiny cranberries. Only another month or two, and they will be ready to be harvested, just in time for some thanksgiving cranberry sauce - my favorite!

As the animals start to slow down and the sun starts to set early, I am also reminded to slow down and treasure each moment. To not be so focused on the busy and the bustle, but instead to take a deep breath, to love well, live intentionally and choose joy.