For the beauty of the earth
For the beauty of the skies
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies
Over and around us lies
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our joyful hymn of praise – John Rutter

These past few days have been a mixture of gratitude for and celebration of family, festivity, and fall. The fall part is racing fast toward winter. However, even though its colors were muted by the long, late summer heat and October’s storms the glory of autumn is still apparent and the cool air makes it a joy to be outside.

I love to walk and this is perfect walking weather. Not just that but we live in a lovely part of North Carolina. Our neighborhood is beautiful and Wake Forest is full with accessible parks and trails.

So my gratitude of heart and my thankful spirit have much to celebrate – it is a Thanksgiving experience that says “I am so full” in response to every blessing that defines day-to-day life here. Of course, life is difficult and exasperating at times – especially when people are in the equation – but this declaration of Thanksgiving is not about ease of living but about the richness and the purpose, the beauty and the deep meaning associated with waking up and enjoying the fullness that is Real Life.

Here are a few images from some of my walks around Wake Forest over the past few days. Enjoy – and don’t forget to give thanks to The Creator for the creation – DEREK