30. Right Now...

I'm...
:: thinking about fun celebrations the past two days to celebrate entering my next decade.

:: feeling the significance of this birthday, not because of the number, but because of all the next year will hold - new home, new job, no school... not that I know what this will look like.

:: longing for our own rhythm and space.  Wanting to nest and make us a home.

:: watching the joy with which my oldest lad plays soccer.  It makes a soccer loving mama glad!

:: seeing the daily growth of my littlest man and savoring these sweet, sweet days.
:: enjoying the remnants of my traditional harvest cake, made by my sister (thanks!)
:: reading some new young-adult literature and feeling grateful for stories and worlds that pull us beyond ourselves. (On my birthday I finished Inside Out and Back Again - so good!)
:: enjoying the two puppies left on the farm.

:: finding new friends on the farm (oh goodness!)

:: remembering with fondness a weekend of camping, exploration and another L'abri experience.

:: rejoicing in sweet friendships renewed surrounding a wedding in Nashville last weekend.
:: feeling tired and wishing a baby, who is currently getting five new teeth (yes 5!) was sleeping more soundly.

:: being most fully alive when outside exploring with my boys.
:: putting aside some of my expectations for school this year and excepting the gifts of unplanned learning that surround us.
:: snatching moments at the sewing machine whenever I can (project sharing to come).
:: realizing how much Jim's friendship keeps me grounded in a time of uncomfortable transience.
:: indulging in treats from the Oakmont bakery and some birthday chocolate from my favorite local candy shop.

:: talking construction with my 'constructioner' who wants to be a farmer when he grows up.
:: beginning to plan a three-year-old birthday with a nod to both of his chosen professions.
:: delighting in fun outings with family.

:: feeling grateful for the clarity of purpose this time is allowing us to pursue.
:: praying for continued patience and guidance.

:: loving the farm and the beauty of fall bursting all around us.

:: planning a trip to Wheaton this coming week.
:: dreading another long car trip... that's three trips in three weeks!
:: also feeling glad for another adventure.
:: missing the scottish sea and the alpine mountains.

:: loving the pennsylvania hills.

:: rejoicing in the wonder of acorns, walks in the fairy woods and autumn wildflowers.

:: wondering what adventures this next year will bring!

Yep, this is 30!  It is good.