The long days of summer are still upon us here in Appalachia. August is usually the hottest month in my little area of the Smokies. And unfortunately, it is just beginning. Like still so many parts of the country, we are facing some higher than normal temperatures. Sensitive to heat, I do not venture out much during summer in the afternoons and evenings which means I miss part of the day in experience. What I have found is inspiration and peace underneath a blanket of stars. While living in Virginia Beach, the view of the stars were obscured. Being home...underneath so many brilliant stars is a wonderful experience.
What I have been able to do is stop and take in the sights and sounds of the darkness every single night. It has been amazingly inspiring. It is difficult to explain the action of sitting and absorbing everything around you. Your senses heighten. You hear rustles. Everything is clearer. Perhaps it is the fact that I have returned to my roots. Perhaps it is being surrounded by the country side, but I am constantly in awe with what I can experience even after all these years.
Given that the year is already half over, I am excited. My absolute favorite time of year is autumn. Not only does my birthday fall in line with my favorite time of year, but the temperature cools down, the air feels wonderful, and the brilliant colors that showcase around me are out of this world.
I cannot tell you how much I am looking forward to the chilly weather of October and November. It is the down cycle of life. Everything is preparing for the arrival of Old Man Winter. Plants begin to wither away. The ground becomes barren. And the rush of life seems to slow down.
Today, I am sharing with you an exercise. As a writer (or even a reader), step outside and absorb the environment around you. What it feels like. What you hear. What you smell. What you can taste. What you see. Capture it. Don't try to describe it. Just feel it.
What I have been able to do is stop and take in the sights and sounds of the darkness every single night. It has been amazingly inspiring. It is difficult to explain the action of sitting and absorbing everything around you. Your senses heighten. You hear rustles. Everything is clearer. Perhaps it is the fact that I have returned to my roots. Perhaps it is being surrounded by the country side, but I am constantly in awe with what I can experience even after all these years.
Given that the year is already half over, I am excited. My absolute favorite time of year is autumn. Not only does my birthday fall in line with my favorite time of year, but the temperature cools down, the air feels wonderful, and the brilliant colors that showcase around me are out of this world.I cannot tell you how much I am looking forward to the chilly weather of October and November. It is the down cycle of life. Everything is preparing for the arrival of Old Man Winter. Plants begin to wither away. The ground becomes barren. And the rush of life seems to slow down.
Today, I am sharing with you an exercise. As a writer (or even a reader), step outside and absorb the environment around you. What it feels like. What you hear. What you smell. What you can taste. What you see. Capture it. Don't try to describe it. Just feel it.
It makes all the difference!
Sarah
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