dear jet lag, why do you hate me? or, because i have absolutely nothing else to do at 4am.

dear jet lag,

it is 4:37am and i am awake. i have been since 3:53am. this is not ok. why won't you let me sleep, jet lag? why do you insist on keeping my brain whirring with countless thoughts of all the things i need to be doing now that i am in california? are you trying to be helpful, jet lag? make sure i get everything done that needs to get done and don't forget the slightest little task?

and if you are trying to be helpful, oh jet lag, why do you make me so unproductive? why must i spend all day stumbling about in a hazy blur? don't you want me to spend time with my family and catch up with friends? or are you entertained when i say silly things and answer questions with ridiculous and nonsensical replies?

have you grown since you were last with me, jet lag? did you have a growth spurt? you seemed so much smaller last year, slightly annoying and inconvenient, but manageable. this year you are a force to be reckoned with. why are you trying to incapacitate me, jet lag?

i know you will be gone soon. i wish i could say i'll miss you.

dear fall, you have been lovely. or, why my blog has been silent for months.

i'm more than just a little embarrassed that my last post is dated august. i can't believe it's already december. the fall rushed by in a blur...

it's been a blur of laughter. of new friendships. of discovering old friends in new ways. of meals shared. of reunions. of goodbyes. of tiny cups of coffee and big mugs of tea. of countless hours spent digging into the Word with sweet friends. of cozy kitchens crammed with people. of screaming vikings. of runs in the park. of big events and tiny gatherings. of making music. of worship. of heated debates over glasses of wine. of tears. of new life. of honest conversation. of growth. of life shared in community.

i'm thankful.