here's to

 morning coffee dates with the beautiful Rachel

who listened to my worries

and gushed over my little bean's photo

who made me laugh

and let me be real

who reassured me over and over

and then sent me on my way with a big warm hug.

Here's to phone calls with my nan

who reminds me to pack warm pajama's 

and exclaims over and over how excited she is.

Here's to long walks in crisp autumn air

with my four legged buddies trotting along on either side.

Falling leaves

and late afternoon sunshine

chilly fingers that should be in gloves

and that wonderful smell of fall.

Here's to suitcases coming out of the garage today

and little toys and clothes being carefully stowed inside.

Here's to a weekend of rest

so that I can face this week with a smile on my face

and let the excitement, not the worry, show through.

Here's to apple crisp baking in the oven

a tidy house

 freshly folded laundry

and hand knitted sweaters.

Here's to life

with all its ups and downs

big stresses and little ones

and the anticipation of "this time next week..."