The pumpkins are out, the leaves are changing, and the temps have dropped a bit. Summer now seems like a distant, though blazing hot, memory.

In July, I felt the need to take a break from Glimsen with a vague plan to come back in August. I felt depleted and dull.

But the break lengthened and stretched and somehow became more of a sabbatical—one I didn’t know I needed.

antique books at the Mackintosh house in Glasgow

First, let me say that I am grateful that I can take a break. I’m also grateful to all of you who checked on me and told me you’d been missing my Glimsen posts. That means so much to me.

During these last three months, I have “filled the well” in ways that will, hopefully, make me even better at sharing beauty through words and images.

Here are a few things I did:

· read a tall, tumbling stack of books, both fiction and nonfiction

· listened to fascinating podcasts on CS Lewis, the classics, and the imagination

· drank endless cups of tea (Harney’s English Breakfast is my favorite)

tea and goodies in a perfect little niche in Edinburgh

· enjoyed time with family members and friends

· took a few trips (more on that soon)

· celebrated birthdays

· gathered ideas

· and worked on some creative, hands-on projects.

I also said goodbye to a long-time friend and mentor and loyal Glimsen reader. Like me, she loved beauty. She’d often comment on my blog posts, forward articles about beauty she thought I would like, and even sent me her own photos of beauty she’d seen.

Like this one, that she took while on a trip in Colorado with her husband.

Stunning, isn’t it?

I miss her, but I’m thrilled for her, too: I know she’s in heaven, filled with awe and wonder at the Beauty she’s experiencing with Jesus, her Savior.

After her passing, I spent time rereading her comments, and she encouraged me all over again. In one she wrote, “I'm so proud of all you have accomplished--& that we are the recipients of your lovely efforts. You inspire us to ‘find Beauty’---everywhere!!” That was just what I needed to hear the first time she sent it and every time I’ve read it since.

Many of you have also encouraged me through the years. Again, thank you. It’s a joy to share Glimsen with you all.

So, what’s coming up next? Blog posts on Scotland and Utah, seasonal sights and sounds, and some things I’ve learned.

I also have a couple of exciting projects in the planning stages. More on that next year!

And last, can I direct your attention to the Shop?

1. If you haven’t already picked up my book, Glimmers of Hope, it’s on sale in the Shop for $12 for a limited time only. Stock up now for Christmas and birthday gifts!

2. Be sure to grab some packs of Joy notecards to send or give friends for Christmas. They’re a great way to celebrate the season! They’ve sold out before, so don’t wait.

Remember that every purchase you make through the Shop helps support Glimsen. Thank you!

I'm honored that you've taken time out of your day to stop by my blog, Glimsen. If you like what you see, click the green button below to receive my posts and updates by email, and you'll also get a free gift of beauty in your inbox. I look forward to connecting with you!