The Days are Getting Shorter – Pack Them in With Joy

The days are getting shorter, and the weather is growing cooler. The leaves are starting to change colors, and some are already falling to the ground. Add to that the back-to-school rush, new schedules, and sports practices and games, and moms can easily become overwhelmed.

Social media is full of articles on how to make schedule boards or how to organize your home into a well-run machine, but have you noticed how much energy those “helpful hints” require of moms? What if mom is already so exhausted and overwhelmed that she doesn’t have anything more to give?

I’m offering a whole new kind of Fall List for mothers, the kind that refreshes her and allows her to face Fall with renewed vigor and joy. See how many of these you can mark off your to-do list!

Reconnect with an old friend. Meet at a coffee shop while the kids are in school (the housework can wait).
Buy yourself a new lipstick in a deep autumn color.
Head to the library and check out one of those cozy mysteries, one that is set in a small town in Fall.
When you’re out doing errands, grab a pot of mums. They’re gorgeous this time of year and come in lots of colors. It’s amazing what flowers can do for your mood.
Buy yourself a funky pair of rain boots (mine have dogs on them). Splash in a few puddles.
Pop some popcorn and serve it with apple cider. Watch a corny Fall rom-com.
Do some back-to-school shopping for YOU! Buy new underwear and some colored pencils for Bible journaling.
Have your hubby grill dinner, sides too, so you don’t have to cook. Eat outside.
Buy a new candle in a Fall scent. Light it whenever the sun sets.
Did you know that there are Autumn devotionals? Buy one with pretty Fall pictures.
Grab a pumpkin or apple pie from the store. Serve it with whipped cream or ice cream.
Take an autumn “saunter”. Stop every few feet to look at leaves and other signs of Fall.
Make a simmer pot. To water or cider add: cloves, cinnamon sticks, orange and apples slices. Let it simmer on low at the back of your stove.
Try a Fall coffee drink you’ve never had before. Sip it slowly and take in the tastes of Autumn.
By all means, fill your home with cuddly throws and pillows. Buy yourself a snuggly sweater and socks. This season was meant for amping up the coziness factor.

However you are feeling this season, I think we can all agree that moms deserve a little spoiling and if no one else is going to do it for you, do it for yourself! Even if Autumn is not your favorite season, I think you’ll find things on this list that are sure to bring you joy. Fill your senses with the beauty that God has put in place for you to enjoy even in the darkest months.

This translation of Psalm 126:5-6 fits perfectly: “Know that though your soul may feel parched and barren, you can enter into this harvest season with the promise of showers of blessings and armloads of joy.”