It seems like I’m constantly posting on social media, so I can’t explain why it’s been so long since my last update. My out-of-state friends did fly here so we could drive together to Ontario to visit mutual friends. That was wonderful. Time in northwestern Ontario also blessed me since that’s where part of the true history of my Wilderness Wife book takes place, and now I’m writing its sequel. A boat ride on this pristine lake was a joy along with seeing waterlilies, eagles, loons, and a bear. There are two loons in the photo. The weather and scenery were perfect. I also loved this relaxed waterfall on Minnesota’s Beaver River.
I’m walking better since my unscheduled flight down the stairs, but my right foot swells too much to wear a shoe. That’s fine now, but it needs to heal before snowfall. With recent high temperatures everywhere, it’s hard to imagine snow, but the days are shorter. Canadian geese are gathering to fly south, and my garden pumpkins are turning orange.
On our return, the neighbor to my left welcomed me with a prizewinning bouquet. Tomorrow, the sweet young Amish wife and mom to my right asked me to introduce her to the flower-growing wife and mom. That will be fun, plus they can be in touch during the months I’m away.
The few gift shops I stopped at bought quite a few of my various signed books to offer to the public. Contact me directly if you wish to order any signed and mailed to yourself or friends. Check my delorestopliff.com website for titles.
School has started in many places and it’s about to in the northern and northwestern parts of our country. I’m now keeping up with fifty university students in two online classes. I say, “Old teachers never die, they just lose their class.” I enjoy teaching so am glad I haven’t lost mine yet. Years ago a friend gifted me this appropriate necklace. 
This week, I found a monarch caterpillar on a fallen grocery flyer below my mailbox. I put choice leaves in a jar and gave him a chance. I saw no activity but a day later he had transformed into a chrysalis. Google says it takes 10-14 days. I’ll be watching. 
What are your end-of-summer blessings? May they overflow and lead you into your best autumn ever.
Until next time, Delores
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