Hanging on to Autumn. . .

As I was out and about this weekend it became quite evident that the holidays are fast approaching.  From the looks of things in some locations, they are already upon us. So when I was looking back through my pictures at all the things I have neglected to blog about, I couldn't resist this one perfect fall day at Manna's house back in October.  Seems like yesterday rather than a month ago.

Idyllic Idaho

There is something about going home that always makes you revert a little to the state of your childhood.  For me that means country living and simple pleasures.

The country is full of things that capture the emotions of a way of life I dream of for my girls.

And they make great pictures too.

My sister's barn makes me want to go hunting barn cats and sit in a hay loft on a sunny day watching a mother and her kittens. . .

and the older the barn the more homey it feels.

The countryside spread out behind it makes life seem simpler. . . even though I know farming is a lot a work, it is an honest lifestyle that connects you to the earth in a way that I love.

It brings you outside and invites you to smell the lilacs,

or pick a daisy.

Where a walk in the countryside, or a hard day's work, is done with a loyal and constant companion.

It's the kind of place where children's laughter fills the yard,

where my niece can be heard whispering, "I love you so bad!"  in a kitten's ear. . .

as she cuddles it up next to her face,

and laughs with pure joy when it purs for her.

Where wishes can be made on dandelion fluff. . .

and sisters love each other every day.

I love going home.