Yes, it’s true. There is a chill in the air here in Vermont. That can only mean one thing. It’s time to pack up my projects, throw my clothes into the suitcase and climb into the car for the trip back to Florida. Always a sad time for me, but one with happy anticipation of seeing friends and neighbors when we arrive back “home” next week. 

The signs of Fall have been developing over the last month. The leaves have a subtle shift in color from summer green to pale yellows, oranges and reds. Sometimes bright reds, but not yet-maybe on the trip down. The rain is still coming on a regular basis and the temperature has begun to sink to lower levels. I hope that the same is happening in Florida.  

Usually at this time of the year, we have hordes of Canadian Geese gathered in front of our cottage, foraging for food in the shallow water. Not this year, the water is high, and the food source is low. I do miss their excited conversations as they plan their trip south, but I do not miss it at 4:00 AM which is often their way. 

I think about the wondrous design set in motion by the Creator God. I try to see the world the way ancient people would as they grasped at the clues of coming change, like the cooler temperatures, the presence of the geese, and the frantic activities of the small creatures as they prepare for the winter months. All these nudges to warn His people that change is coming. Prepare! 

Am I as sensitive to the coming changes in my everyday life? I like being in a steady state-the predictable keeps me happy, safe and secure. Perhaps I am feeling this warning because I age with each day. I do know that this state will bring change that I cannot control.  

How do I face this uncontrollable change? I can trust in the protection of the Lord who loves me unconditionally, who loves you unconditionally. You can, too. 

Terri