In Minnesota, our harvest is in and flannels and blankets are handy. It was 29 F. here this morning, so frost painted everything white until sunshine turned up the heat. We’re scheduled for several more daytime highs in the 70’s but night’s are cold. It’s time to curl up in front of a blazing fire with a good book.
October is the birthday anniversary of my fun Christmas Tree Wars book being published. I received that inspiration as a single complete download one morning while driving along a Minnesota farm road. I haven’t had that happen before or since and would love to experience that again. Read (or reread) how a feud between neighboring Christmas tree farmers turns to love when they compete to supply the Whitehouse Christmas Tree—but only one can win! 
Autumn has its own beauty. Here’s the Milaca Library near our farm where I teaching writing monthly to some talented people I’m proud of. Helpful guidelines and encouragement have taken them a long ways. Genuine encouragement does that for all of us. 
Some bright spots in my day here are when neighboring Amish children smile and wave going to and from school. I miss them when I’m away. They have some of the prettiest, best-cared for horses I’ve seen anywhere. Here’s one of their nicer buggies.
Good news from far afar is this photo of my dear Irish friend, Joan, reading my A Traveling Grandma’s Guide to Israel: Adventures, Wit, and Wisdom. She gently chided me about one unwise risk I took in the book, and she’s right. I never made that particular mistake again. Besides helpful hints and hilarious true stories, it shows travelers (and armchair adventurers) things NOT to do. I’m grateful to have wonderful friends in many other nations. Besides visiting them, I love welcoming them to my home.
November’s right around the corner with Thanksgiving following with Christmas and New Year preparation and splendor. Remember, books are great gifts to give or receive. I’m making my list. It’s time to start yours.
Have a wonderful remaining October full of joys and fall colors,
Until next time, Delores
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