I was born in the mountains— I spent my childhood there. When I return to them, I am happy and sad, because the mountains are only mine to borrow. They are not mine to keep.

Emotions float to the top of my soul like marshmallows in cocoa— warm, bittersweet emotions.

I want to stay in the mountains— not just for a few days. I want to stay long enough to adventure; explore; rest; create; reconnect; and pray.

I am drawn to the autumn colors of the mountains and to the falling leaves. When October comes, I must journey there. The changing season is symbolic of the change I long to see within myself. It feels like instinct, but it is certainly the Spirit of God, who longs for my change even more than I do.

Thank you, God, for leaves on a porch; for crisp air; for a thick blanket next to a fireplace; for hot apple cider; for homemade meals around a table of friends who feel more like family; for quiet peace; for fog on the mountains; for the smell of lavender; for joy; and naps. Thank you, God. All of this means so much to me. You knew it would.

Dedicated to Dee and Mark Mueller, the founders and hosts of Hearth Ministries.