Counting Down The Days

There are many reasons to be excited, especially when there’s a season change. There’s no denying autumn is my favorite, with winter not too far behind.

This new season is the change I’ve been waiting for and needed for some time because this is a period when the universe appears to be on my side. If it’s as it’s always been, there will be a renewal of happiness, clarity and understanding that will fortify an existence that is overdue for an emergence.

I can’t say the past two years have been the best, but through challenge, obligation and hurdle I’ve learned more than I could ever express in words. There has been a great priority shift in my life, which came with lessons learned, and of course, with the coming of age (that’s how age sticks it to us).

What brings me the most happiness this time of year are those small, natural little treats that enrich a life, not just mine, but for those I choose to share this journey with.

The falling leaves poetically move me into deeper thought. Their metamorphosis of color really does bring calmness and peace to my world. There’s serenity, demanding I give thanks to those around me who help nurture my spirit through conversation. I truly appreciate that which is free flow mediation, and that’s what I feel when a leaf breaks from a tree and falls magically to the ground, and then catches air moving about with ease.

It makes me think of life’s interludes of stability and stillness, change and acceptance, and moving forward and beyond. It’s a vindication of the past, a celebration of the present and a promise of what will be will be.

For me, now is the time when my count down begins. Minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day I look forward to receiving some of my favorite gifts from nature.

I’m excited by beautiful fall skies and breathtaking sunsets that make me smile. I’m thrilled by crisp cool days that allow for light jackets and sweaters and chilly nights requiring a blanket or two, which ensures a perfect night’s sleep. This is the season when you can really appreciate hot cider and tea the most. My biggest treat is my fireplace where I can cozy up on the couch and read a good book; maybe drink a glass of wine or two, enjoying the best relaxation possible.

It might sound corny to some, but what I look forward to the most is the time change. I feel like I’m getting something big with that extra hour. I also love when darkness falls shortly after 5 PM.

Yes, October 1st began my countdown for many things to come, but the ultimate is the arrival of Halloween, which will be here in 28 days – 28! I love this holiday, and it’s my favorite for many reasons. You can step outside yourself and be anyone. There is laughter, love, innocent pranks and treats. Let me not forget the parties. There are many, and I try to take in one or two, if time permits. This special time of year requires I travel back, reminiscing of Halloweens past. My memories are long and include many people. My first costume ever was Casper (the friendly ghost). I was five years old, and loved that costume so much I didn’t want to take it off. I slept in it all night.

I remember those few years after when my Mom would walk with me, hand-in-hand we would travel to the Avenue (in East Baltimore) to Woolworth’s so I could choose a costume. I remember these one-piece synthetic garments that came with a plastic mask that covered the front of the face. I remember that strange smell of old plastic that always permeated the senses (I loved it!). It was probably toxic, but who cares! I was happy.  I survived it and it’s a wonderful memory that brings me great joy, for this is my ode to Woolworth’s, and I guess, my Mom, too.

I always loved haunted houses. I was always deliciously scared, and would not just walk through once, but three times, just as scared as I was the first time around. Ah, the innocence of youth or ignorance, depending how you want to look at it.

It’s Halloween as an adult that really is the best! I love creating and executing my own costumes, throwing parties, and my favorite, going to Fells Point to celebrate with people from all over the city. The costumes go from cute, to crazy, to scary, to simply outrageous. It really is awesome, and a Baltimore tradition.

I really do enjoy dressing up, sitting outside on the stoop with friends and passing out candy to the trick or treaters.  I love seeing parents out with their kids, all dressed up, laughing and smiling. The latter appears to be fizzling, but my memories are sustaining, and they are always nice to share with my yesteryear friends who took the same journey.

There is so much that takes place on a journey. Regardless of it being a day trip, a vacation or your life, we must enjoy the moment because it’s fleeting. Here’s to counting down the days, in the most positive of ways. Cheers! – paerki