Fall Forecast

On By K.L. HaleIn newsletter

Happy Fall, faithful friends.

Today I don’t need flannel, but I’m dressed in faith. The 80 degrees and higher will give way to cooler temps in the west. Without my friends, I couldn’t make this trip (for MANY reasons). ). My fall forecast calls for a season of change; cooler contentment mixed with the colors of calm. I hope to be raking ridiculous results and jumping in piles of promise (well, not that SOON :-). May faith be in your forecast; our Savior soothe your soul.

Timeless Treasure

My local writing guild provided a prompt of a piano for this month’s writing contest. Giving life to an inanimate object is difficult (thank you, Martha, for editing suggestions). Here you go, Mom. My friends, Kelley and Gary, may enjoy this, too. If you grew up around a piano, you understand.

In the shadow, you stand stoic and stately. Shining upon you, a golden light unmasks your aged beauty and warmth. You’re so grand in your upright stance. Your Ivory keys are yellowed; yet your half-steps are still pitch black for Momma to see. C to D to E. F to G, then A, B, and another C.

Your basswood bench was her throne, your pedals shifted the tone. Momma’s hands made the music, she never sang alone. Together we created a musical melody. Momma sang alto, Dad belted bass, sisters sang soprano, and I’d find a harmony place. Momma tickled the tempo tight, and grace became a key. Children’s songs to choruses, “Just as I am, without one plea.”

At age 7 I had my first song solo. With affection, I reflect on the practice times with you. Our devotions matched; I couldn’t detach. “Would the church piano be as great as Momma’s,” I wondered. Nervously, I held the microphone singing: “I saw a blind man tapping along, losing his way, as he passed through the throng. Tears filled my eyes, I said, ‘Friend you can’t see,’ but with a smile on his face, he replied to me.”

From “Hallelujah Square” to “I Want to See Jesus,” you supplied hope and a promise, a love we still share. “It is Well with My Soul” and “How Great Thou Art,” songs linger around you, they stay in my heart. At ten with the lessons, I grasped chords and notes. The yearning to play is a hope that still floats.

Our gathering has dwindled. Longsuffering and composed, you stand serene and quiet. Adorned with family photos, you’re a heavenly piece. Patiently you wait for us to gather around. No matter what life brings, we’ll sing hopeful sounds. Most times you sit alone, dependable, and respected. Our songs have changed, children have grown, Momma’s fingers ache, and some family voices are gone. Through times that were hard, unexpected, and good, you’re more than a piano made with wood. You’re a gift in our gathering and melodies in our souls. The music from you is what makes us whole.

Hearing music from you, I release any strife. You’re Momma’s piano, a timeless treasure, a marked part of my life.

Have faith💚

K.L. Hale's avatar

Embracing imperfection with faith, flannel, and fresh air

K.L. Hale

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128 thoughts on “Fall Forecast”

  1. Dear Karla, I don’t know what to say. You are gratitude and humbleness in person. I wish you did not have to go through this all when even it has shaped you. But however, I do pray that you are soon free from this disease and can enjoy life after your agenda and not the one of your body. You are a wonderful person who makes us see life, this coming season, and the little (in fact) big gifts of life with different eyes. Would you allow me to give you a healing session from the distance this week? I would love to!

    Reply

    1. Erika, you’re a beautiful soul. Your words mean so much to me. I want to be s better friend. I’ve been so overwhelmed lately that I’ve not been good to new ones~and old ones! I have a Telehealth appt tomorrow, two appts on Wednesday and I leave on Thursday~I’m being protective of what time I have, although I know what you’re offering sounds amazing. Will you join me in prayer for complete healing? Can I touch base after my vacation? I appreciate you so much, Erika. I do see my quality of life improving. I can’t wait to share the amazing news when time comes! Much love and appreciation ❤️💕🥰🙏🏻

      Reply

      1. There is so much love shining from you and wrapped around you. Your words give me goosebumps. Of course, just let me know what I can do whenever are ready. Enjoy your vacation and all that life has in store for you but I know, I don’t need to say this. Have a great time. Much love to you, dear Karla 💖

  2. This is a great post, Karla. I love your piano story. You are so blessed to have a mother who encouraged you to develop your musical skills. Music is the first we know and the last to go, I say! It stays within us all of our lives.
    When are you going to the Grand Canyon? I thought you mentioned that your were going a while back.

    Reply

    1. Hi, Dwight. ☺️ thank you so much for this thoughtful response. I remember being told, “If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.” Oh my friend, I’m not very good at it. But I love music. It was a blessing to grow up around it. I’m a fan of all many genres! Yes, in my September Newsletter I highlighted a trip for the end of the month. It’s here! We will head that way on Friday (I’ll be picked up by my tribe on Thursday)It’s hard to believe how fast time is flying. Now, to stay healthy the next 3 days! I hope you and yours are well, my friend. I appreciate you so much! 🙏🏻💚

      Reply

  4. Happy fall, Karla. What an amazing post! And the answer is, “Yes! I will join you on your workout.” It sounds awesome.

    I love your piano essay, too. Even though I don’t play, pianos have occupied an important part of my life growing up. Still do, as a matter of fact.

    You continue to be in my prayers as you move into this next stage of your cancer journey.

    Russell

    Reply

    1. Russell, you are so kind! You make me smile! I shared your post, about singing, to my mom and twin (was the concert recorded?). I know how important a piano is to you. Thank you for your support and prayers. You’ve been a faithful friend and encouragement. Thanks for working out with me! And for the prayers on the next step~here I go. 🙏🏻🦓💕

      Reply

    1. Gary, I’m so happy you’re here. I thought of you writing this~the piano! Yes! I’m singing your song along the journey. There are so tough days, rough hours, bouts of tears~they give way to hope, a smile, and the promise God has me. Just as he has you and yours (because we chose to die of ourself and give him control). I’m so thankful for your prayers. I pray for your precious family too. 🙏🏻

      Reply

      2. Gary, I love this so much! I have never heard this before. Your voice is so smooth with an incredible tone and perfect projection at just the poignant places! I want to sing with you, my friend. Russell on here is.s singer. I know there are others. We should form a blogging song experience in our future. Your faith shines through. You’re gifted, my friend. Ok, everyone here, listen to this! 🥰🙌🏻🎶🎶💕💕

  6. Mary Bellingham's avatar Mary Bellingham

    Praying you, family and medical team through, precious one. You light up our lives with your words, wisdom and especially your love. Rest in His promised
    healing and loving Presence. All will be well….

    Reply

    1. Mary, aw, how precious. My heart skipped reading your response. I can’t wait to share my faith even more with the team in Maryland. They’re wonderful, Mary. I hope to continue to be a light~even on “dim” days. At this exact moment, I’m resting. And I will continue resting in that presence and promise you so beautifully shared. It is well! ❤️🙏🏻💕

      Reply

      3. Wow! You’re coming to the Grand Canyon! Depending which rim you visit, you could be pretty close to me! That’s it, I’m changing the alarms I set to remind me to pray for you in October, and I’m going to start them today. I know God doesn’t rely on proximity to answer his prayers, but how can you be practically close enough for my outstretched arms to touch and not start praying for you now? I’ll keep it up thru October too. I pray for you now, my friend, whenever I think of it, but I can’t say it has been every day. From here on out, tho- it will be! Health, the adventure of a lifetime, and then strength and healing. All yours, in the name of Jesus! 💕

      4. Mama, I love that I’ll be close to you (my mind immediately went back to when you moved and your beautiful transitions and posts). Wow. You will have alarms to pray for me? 🥹 my heart. Any prayers are appreciated! My daily conversations with him are so amazing now. Easy, simple, and natural. You’re so busy and it means so much to me!🤗🙏🏻
        We will be visiting South Rim (staying an hour from there towards Flagstaff). Will your arms reach me there? I wonder if we had Stretch Armstrong’s arms? But I know God’s huge arms are bringing us closer together!
        An adventure (bucket list), rest, rejuvenation,….come back and align the plans, straighten up my resolve, prepare for travel to surgery. What a glorious Thanksgiving I’m foreseeing; much like the miracles in today, but even bigger! Amen to your precious prayers. I’m hugging you in love and gratitude, Mama. “See” you soon. 🥰❤️☺️🙏🏻

      5. Yes!!!! My arms will reach you. I will practically lay hands on you as I pray. I live in Flagstaff! Like I said, I know God doesn’t rely on proximity, but my finite brain finds it incredibly encouraging to get to pray for you while you are so close!!!

    1. Dora, thank you, sweet friend. I love that~”sustain, heal, and nourish”. I’ve found no other way. I hope you’re well. I hope to read your beautiful poems. 🙏🏻❤️💕

      Reply

    1. MAK, your guidance and suggestions helped me understand. You give me confidence. Thank you. I changed some things and didn’t want to bother you, lol. I couldn’t wait to read your thoughts. You help me be a better writer (and help me see things in life in different perspectives and enjoyment). Finn and I love you 3. I’m so thankful for you! ✍🏻 💕🐾 you’ve given me the best optimism in your teaching!

      Reply

  10. Karla I’m all a twitter to let the prayer warriors know the latest development – you are in our hearts and minds and prayers are on our lips! I loved the piano prose! <3 Currently son#1 has son#2's piano in his living room – It needs to be tuned and it has seen better days but the former owner loved and cared for it. I'm excited for the prospect of improved quality of life for you. My prayers will extend to your family and especially for the doctors and surgeons to have their hands guided by the Holy Spirit!! I love you! Hugs to you and to Finley (which in that last photo her expression of adoration is so obvious)!

    Reply

    1. Val, I love you too! How wonderful to read of your son’s piano~tuned and ready!
      Will you give a group hug to the warriors? I’d love a pic of this gang. When I say names out loud, or on tired days, over the journal, I think of “mumbling” of hard-to-understand words being simultaneously spoken to God. It’s a noise I TRY to imagine over the loud clanking of our typical life sounds. How precious you say my name. And they don’t know me. That’s what I love about those who believe. I love praying for others! I really believe quality will happen; I understand I’m trading pain for a while. But I feel it now, I’m ok with that. Suffering has brought me closer to our Savior. We all have our own suffering. 🙏🏻💕 yes, Finn is one to admire and adore (so much she’ll pester you until you play with her, lol). Hugs to you and Mochi!! I pray you are all well.🐾🙏🏻❤️

      Reply

      1. Karla I’ll see if I can get a group photo this coming week! I’ll email it to you as soon as I can get all of them corralled! (you’d think that these women would be easy to snap a photo but they are like herding cats!)

  12. My dear friend, your faith shines through your pain! Like the story of the piano, you continue to play beautiful music 🎶 with your words and life for all see. Love you, ❤️ and continuing to storm the gates of heaven for you! Thanks for your prayers and how you take time to read blogs even when you aren’t feeling well. I pray they bring you joy and that you will keep having the strength to get those smiles each day. Love and mucho hugs! 💗

    Reply

    1. Joy, I see you storming, with love and happiness, a book and pen in hand, toting cute animals and a blessing to share as you lift so many of us. I’m so glad you see my faith. I desire that! I love you too! You’re so kind. Reading others, like you, is such a blessing. I’m inspired so incredibly much! I’m going to have the dr prescribe smiles and laughter in addition to pain medication 🤪😂🙃🙂 singing our song,…here we go. 🎶🎶💕❤️🤗🥰 love you , joy joy ❤️💕🤗

      Reply

      1. Aww! Yes, I have the cute animals with me. 😉
        YES! A needed prescription for sure! ❤️❤️❤️❤️🧡🧡🧡🧡 I was singing today, too! Love ya Karla!

  13. I’m always holding you in sweet prayers Karla. This is also my favorite time of year. I love the crisp mornings, warm coffee, the smell of bacon! Warm sweaters, cozy blankets, old movies. Fall really does have it all! Safe travels my friend, drink in all of it with those beautiful eyes, and feel the awe inspiring creativity of God-Grand is the Canyon! I love you Karla, hugs, C

    Reply

    1. You’re my warm blanket, giggles in good times, dreams of a big life in this world, big sister. You’re reminding me of all the things I love! Including you. The crisp mornings, coffee, and bacon make me think of camping. I really see that in my future again. I’ll take pictures, and you and I know they won’t do it justice. The awe-inspiring creativity of God. Grand! That’s spectacular. Much love, C. 💕🤗🥰🙏🏻

      Reply

  14. Haha, that piano story is a love all its own Karla. Those times a centerpiece of life, a share through so many times and moments…and so remembered. Even the photo’s of those young ones wanting to create that sound they always hear. I love it. I wonder if they’ll let you bring yours into the hospital, I bet the healing rates would go through the roof 🤣
    I shall keep playing my music…no, His music to you while your on your adventure my friend, and the healing His music will give for you too. Deep breath, and feel the love go right through you Karla. I have no doubt your music shall become lighter and brighter very soon. Big hugs kind lady, I’m always here playing my music towards you and Finley 😀❤️🙏

    Reply

    1. Mark, aww, your heart. ❤️Gosh darn it. It’s so big. I love you and your kind words, always! And your wisdom! At the cancer center there is a piano in the lobby. It’s so wonderful to hear; it’s not always played when I’m there, but it sits beautifully waiting. Music IS healing! Thank you for being “here” even if you are 9,000 miles away! I’m taking a deep breath, my friend. I hear the music too! Finn is tapping all 3 paws too!🐾🐾❤️💕🎶🎶🙏🏻🙏🏻🥰🤗

      Reply

  15. I love your defiance, Karla, your determination: no, we will NOT be defined by cancer. Your optimism is inspirational. I love this sentence: ‘Today I don’t need flannel, but I’m dressed in faith’ ; stay well, Karla, stay strong 🙂

    Reply

    1. John, you’re my partner in this! Look at you. You’re so precious and kind to me. Thank you so much for saying these things. I know I do have a choice on how to handle it. Some days are better than others. One thing I’ve noticed of myself~perhaps because of everything I’ve been through~I can reframe or get out of “stinkin’ thinkin’” faster than before. Perhaps age, but also keeping my heart in shape on what matters most~my God. I pray everyday for you, John. I’m proud of you and how you’re handling things, too. Let’s stay strong together!💪🏻🙏🏻❤️

      Reply

      2. Amen, John! I am reminded at my virtual supper group meetings to say “I HAVE stage 4 cancer”, not “I’m stage 4”…our leader shared that often with all of us!

  17. Today I don’t need flannel, but I’m dressed in faith. I have seen your faith through the distant miles and it is genuine, the real deal. You encourage me with your journey as it is seasoned with God’s amazing grace. Karla, you gave the piano life and I loved your poetry. Did I tell you I had always wanted a baby grand piano and Butch bought me one for our 50th anniversary? Music is so important in our lives. I often sit for long periods of time and play the old hymns. Sorry, I digressed.

    I love you so much my friend. You are always in my prayers and on my heart. God is definitely at work in your journey. He has not left you helpless or hopeless. He is the anchor of your soul.
    Prayers, hugs, and lots of love! 🙏🏻🙏🏻♥️♥️🤗🤗

    Reply

    1. Pam, will you please give Butch a big hug from me on that gift? Oh, I just knew you all sat around and sang~I’m adding you to the piano list. I think of your sweet Daddy. My Mom would join you and what a gathering it would be (there is a song we can’t let Dad play~that’s another story tee hee). I’m so glad you can feel my faith. There was a time I just felt hopeless. Utterly confused and hopeless. A failure of sorts. I felt alone. I fell flat on my faith. I wasn’t alone! I’d rather have Jesus, my family, nature, trees, and the simple things in life, than anything that is “required” of this world. I didn’t have to worry anymore of being judged in a career, or relationship,…and now , even health. That’s why you can see it, Pam. I’m utterly dependent on it~it’s the only real and constant! And to think I could be an encouragement is heartwarming and touching. It brings tears. That’s how your homestead, your family and faith, the pictures and beauty, touch me. I really think there’s a choir among us in WP. And throw in the Eagles, soutgern gospel, southern rock, old country, folk music, Anne Murray, and a few others, we have a variety show! I love you so much, Pam. Isn’t this journey amazing? Without the anchor, I’d still be drifting. I can’t wait to share in the future! ❤️💕🙏🏻🥰🤗🎶🎶🎶💚

      Reply

      1. I gave Butch a hug from you. Oh, how fun it would be to gather round the piano and sing together! Yes, definitely a variety show. That would be amazing. I love you Karla ♥️🙏🏻💖🥰🎤🎹🎶

      2. Thank you, Pam. I hear us all now singing. It’s lovely and encouraging! I love you, Pam! 🎶💕💚🎶👏🏻👏🏻🙌🏻❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻

  18. Ginger Salvatore's avatar Ginger Salvatore

    Karla, I just love your piece about the piano. We had an upright piano in my childhood home. My mother and sister played, my sister being the star. I love listening to a piano. All instruments have their own unique sounds, but a piano has magic. Your story just brings those years alive. I felt like I was there with all of you!

    Now you’re about to start your third life. Your first life was before cancer. Your second, and current life is now, living with cancer and all its ugliness. Ahhh, but your third life will be post cancer including pain relief, or at least most of it. You’ve worked so hard and endured so much to get here. Congratulations! You have sticktoittiveness in spades my friend.

    Still a long road ahead. Hang on tight. You’re in for the long haul and we’re all there with you. Praying as hard as I can that your platelets behave themselves and get where they’re supposed to be. I hope you don’t worry about responding to our comments or pushing out blog posts. I hope you focus on YOU. Be a diva for awhile and think of yourself and what you need to get through this.

    To know you, even just through your blog, is to love you Karla. You are a bright beacon for so many. My prayers and good thoughts are with you and your family, and of course sweet Miss Finley, who will miss you while you’re away. But I have no doubt your family will smother her in love! My prayers are also with your medical team who are going to perform that miracle we’ve all been waiting for…..from my lips to God’s ears! ❤️

    Sent from my iPad

    >

    Reply

    1. Oh, Ginger. I love you. You have a way with words. This: “You have sticktoittiveness in spades my friend.” And “ Be a diva for awhile and think of yourself and what you need to get through this.”, Ginger, I can see all your family gathered around the upright. The star sister and everyone listening. A piano is magic! Your kind words always encourage me. Thank you seems so little. I’m in it for the long haul. I’m in the 3rd season! Yes! Today’s post is my last for a while, Ginger. I’ll pop in to see others, and I’ll let everyone know before I fly to Maryland (and share pics!), but otherwise, a break. For focus, calm, and intentional peaceful planning. I won’t know what to think being away from Finley for so long. She’ll be smothered in love by family and friends. Ginger, praying for the medical team means everything. God has it in his hands, but many “instruments” are in their hands. I hope you feel my love and prayers too. ❤️🙏🏻💕

      Reply

    1. Aw, Kelley. You’re such an inspiration to me. Friends, if you’re reading this, please go read Kelley and listen to her play! You’re an amazing and gifted musician! Thank you for the prayers. I’m so happy we’re prayer warriors together. 💕🥰🙏🏻🤗

      Reply

      1. Suzette, that means so much to me!! The words you wrote are some of my favorite shared by Isaiah. I really find comfort and strength through them. Thank you, dear friend. 💛🙏

    1. Mark, this means so much, my friend. I don’t take our friendship for granted; nor my relationship with our Creator! Our prayers and thoughts can work together for good. I’m so glad we our on this journey together. I wish the best to you and yours. I can imagine the fun things around the corner for the Bialczak’s . I’ll take lots of pics, Mark!

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Pete! I appreciate the blessings. I truly know where healing and power exist—I claim it and am thankful for it. I have so much gratitude, Pete. I wish and pray the same for you. Thank you for your kind words about the piano, too! You know well these memories and you keep singing every day!

      Reply

  24. This morning with your guidance, I pray specifically for your sons and parents, family and Finley, your platelets and back, bones and energy, healing and love, peace and joy, especially for your workouts and upcoming trips, business and pleasure. I’m saving this note for continued prayers while you take time for self-care and leaving today with this song in my heart: “It Is Well with My Soul.” Sending BIG love and hugs, Karla! ❤️🙏🏻❤️

    Reply

    1. My favorite hymn, Crystal. Your prayer is moving and beautiful. Exactly the specifics needed. I feel your love and hugs, sweet friend. I pray for you as you do for me. 🙏🏻❤️🥰💚

      Reply

  25. I LOVED “Timeless Treasure!” One of my favorite childhood memories is sitting next to my grandfather while he played the piano. He was self-taught, so what he played might not have perfectly matched the sheet music, but I loved it anyway.
    Please know I’ll be praying for you and your family during the coming weeks as your plans finalize and the time for surgery nears. May your faith continue to provide strength and hope, even on the most difficult days….

    Reply

  26. I love your statement, “I’m dressed in faith!” Yes, I see you wrapped in a resilient and imperishable robe of faith–beautiful too! You are an example to us all, Karla.

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Nancy. You’re so kind and thoughtful. Each day I need to remember to put it on~faith never goes out of style! Some days are harder~but with prayer and meditation on the Word, I can keep myself covered! Know I wish blessings and goodness for you!❤️🙏🏻

      Reply

  27. Autumn is my favorite season too, Karla and one reason is, because it is a time when I called more inside ( at least as the autumnal weeks pass by) and I am once again called to the piano to fill my time (and my soul) instead of the mountains. Oh, how the piano has witnessed and accompanied me through life – romance, breakups, new loves, death. I remember the last time I played the piano for my papa. Mom had passed away and we were sitting together in the living room. He asked me to play (I was home visiting) and oh did I! Shortly after I left to go back home, he was moved into transitional care and never heard me play again. I will remember that afternoon forever and tear up anytime I play those same songs. My brother has the family piano but I found one just like it – a 1963 Baldwin Acrosonic – on Craigslist and snatched it up when I finally had a home to house it. Currently, it sits in my living room, with chorale music piled on it as that is the season I am in now. IN the summer it looks at me and makes me feel guilty as I pass by and by and by with nary a tinkle on the keys. I miss the days, at times, when all I had to do was practice my piano!! To think what a chore that was way back when. Now it is a true delight and when I do make time, I find the time soon becomes hours before I realize it!

    May God bless you during this next stage of your journey. May music fill your soul when the din of life becomes too much. You are a treasure. Sending you strength and healing prayers and as always, much love.

    Reply

  28. Karla, I read your post the other day and have been praying since. Thought of you early this am on my jog. For some reason I thought of this oldie but goodie hymn and sang it for you just now:

    A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,
    a wonderful Savior to me.
    He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,
    where rivers of pleasure I see.

    Refrain:
    He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock
    that shadows a dry, thirsty land.
    He hideth my life in the depths of his love,
    and covers me there with his hand,
    and covers me there with his hand.

    2 A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord;
    he taketh my burden away.
    He holdeth me up, and I shall not be moved;
    he giveth me strength as my day. [Refrain]

    3 With numberless blessings each moment he crowns,
    and filled with his fullness divine,
    I sing in my rapture,“Oh, glory to God
    for such a Redeemer as mine!” [Refrain]

    4 When clothed in his brightness, transported I rise
    to meet him in clouds of the sky,
    his perfect salvation, his wonderful love,
    I’ll shout with the millions on high. [Refrain]

    Reply

    1. Jane, I sang along. You’re a precious soul. To remember me is heartwarming. I’ve been thinking of you and the recent trip you took. I’m off right now, headed west. Old hymns speak to me. They always will have a special place in my heart. I keep you in my heart too (and my prayers). ❤️🙏🏻

      Reply

  29. “I know I will still have cancer, but cancer will not have me.” If that isn’t the most inspiring thing you wrote! Then there’s Mama’s piano. You know this well. Yes, the sunlight shows the warm, aged wood and yellowed ivory keys. Oh, how that made me smile. Do you know how lucky you were to grow up around a piano and music? Children today rely on music videos. Nothing is better than the real deal, a piano or live instrument bringing music to children, and everyone. I am a champion of music with instruments in the classroom….but I fight the video music with younger teachers, and also with parents. Karla, I won’t quit on this one, just like you won’t quit on your cancer. Thank you for inspiring me!

    Reply

    1. Jennie, I can’t thank you enough for this beautiful message. I’m smiling thinking of us both staying determined. To think I inspire you is humbling, my friend. I know what a champion you are of authenticity and real! You are the real deal too, Jennie. I’m so fortunate to have grown up around a piano. I cherish the days. Music is so healing and as you know well too, kids and music equals huge rewards and benefits in so many ways! I won’t quit, my friend. Im glad you won’t too. Many hugs and blessings. 💕🎶🎶

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      2. Music IS medicine, sweet Jennie! Please accept my apology for this LATE reply. I just returned from a trip with my hiking tribe. Jennie, I do hope and pray you are well. I hope to post one more time and get by your place before big changes in the next couple of weeks! Big hugs, Jennie. I appreciate you so much!

      3. No apologies necessary, Karla! I’m so glad you went hiking with your tribe. Having a tribe is huge. HUGE! All is well here. I look forward to your post, but if that doesn’t happen before your big changes, please know I am here with you. Mega hugs to you, Karla. You are an inspiration – never forget that!

  30. Just want to share some love and support for you, beautiful warrior Karla. 💖 Hope you are able to fully enjoy the beauty of the season. 🍂 Love and hugs to you. Lighting a candle for you. 🕯️

    Reply

    1. Michele, how precious. I think I’m going to see the best parts of this season! And it will be so beautiful. Thank you for your love and support. You’re an Angel. And for the candle ~that’s so humbling and thoughtful. I wish all of this goodness for you. I pray for good health and joy! Much love, Michelle ❤️💕🙏🏻🍂🍁🤗

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  31. My friend I am sending you so many hugs. With God we can do this. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
    We had our first autumnal storm this week. The conkers, leafs and good parts of the trees are down. But I do love this month. Something about the necessary life processes before new life can start again. Whisper it, I was so bad at singing that at school I was told to mime by the music teacher.

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    1. I feel the hugs and and I believe as you, with God it can be done. I love your wisdom on necessary life processes that begins a new life. I giggled at the singing part. But with me, sing as loud as you want whenever you want! Many hugs and prayers to you both. ❤️🙏🏻🤗 thank you for your kindness and support. Love, Karla

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  32. Hello sweet friend!! I hope you are being warmed by God’s sunshiny love today! <3 I need to let you know that I just checked my spam folder and your comments to my last several stories were in there!!!! I had missed your comments, but figured you just were too tired to post. So SORRY that I hadn't replied, but they had never showed up. Now they are there and I will be replying. All of your comments make me smile so big. Thank you for taking the time to respond and so glad that I can bring you some joy to your days. Praying and hugging you tight!!! <3

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    1. Hello sweet friend!!! Isn’t that spam folder something special? tee hee. You never havve to apologize, by the way. I understand how life goes. My life is…well, so weird right now. LOL. I just returned from a trip out West with my hiking tribe. I’m recouping today and visiting family too. I hope to visit more soon, my sister. I think I’ll try and post one more time before I head East for my surgery the end of the month. I need my “head” and spirit to be in a good place–emotionally, spiritually, and physically! What a fall it’s going to be. I feel your prayers and hugs! I appreciate you so much, sweet Joy! I hope you feel mine too! 💚🤗🙏🎶

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      1. Yes, I do feel your prayers, dear friend! 🥰
        I’m so glad you got to be with your hiking tribe before this huge surgery the end of the month. Hope you can enjoy visiting with family too. Praying and singing my heart ❤️ out for a successful surgery!! And peace and strength and health for you!!
        Do you have an email address? I tried looking on your site but didn’t see it. I have something I want to email you. Feel free to email me. Joyroses13@hotmail.com. Thanks! Love ya!!

      2. I’ll email you today, Joy! Let’s sing a duet! Peace, strength,…and healing; beautiful ~I always feel that from you! ❤️💚💕

    1. Thank you, Cindy! I’ver returned home and may take a couple of days to recoup. I’m so thankful to God for my friends, the trip, and being back safely! I pray you are well. I hope to see you soon again!

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    1. I love you, Dawn. Please accept my apologies for late response. A trip and getting acclimated; preparing for future life-changing surgery! Dawn, you’re an awesome soul sister! God is good and life is getting ready to change huge! Healing comes first and your prayers mean so much!! ❤️❤️❤️ I hope you feel my hugs.

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    1. Hi John! I’m back–I just returned from a trip out west. My amazing friends in AR took me on a wonderful vacation. It may take me a few days to recoup and return to “normal” (I was never that to begin with, lol). I think I’ll write one more post before I head out East for my surgery (I’ll fly out on the 25th, admitted on 31st, surgery on Nov. 1st). I’m going to get my heart and head in the right “space” to prepare (if that makes sense?). After surgery I’ll write an update and then hopefully, within a couple of months, I’ll be ready to “rock and roll”. Tee hee. I pray for you every morning, John. I saw the Grand Canyon. I threw our cancer down in it. I thanked God for his blessings as I do daily. I pray you’re well, too. 🙏❤️

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  36. Hey Karla!

    It was so nice meeting you on Tuesday night @ Bright Angel! My wife and I really enjoyed talking to you.

    Do you have any other social media accounts we could follow you on? And look, I’m serious- if you ever want to do a rim to rim hike, you just let me know and I’ll be right there with you. It truly was a life changing experience for me, and hands down the absolute most amazing experience of my life, and meeting you at the end was the cherry on top! ❤️

    Also thanks so much for the sticker! We replaced the wooden door inserts on our camper 2 years ago with white board material and have been covering them with stickers from National Parks. Yours will always remind me of my first time hiking rim to rim, and you’ll never know how grateful I am for it!

    Now… I’m literally begging the wife to stay here and do a hike from South Kaibab to North Kaibab in the next week!! I just can’t get enough of the beauty in this big hole in the ground

    ❤️❤️❤️
    -Charlie Coleman

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    1. Charlie, what a pleasure to meet both of you! To open up my blog and find your precious comment just made my day! I just returned home. I have to give credit to my hiking “Tribe” for the beautiful stickers (they even had shirts made!) of my logo. For now, this is my only social media account. One day I hope and pray to hike the rim. You and Jessica for such inspirations to me! What a great life you are both creating! Some have told me they thought the Grand Canyon a big hole in the ground. It mesmerized me! We were able to visit very beautiful places in the west. I’m forever grateful. It was time to come home and rest up. Recoup and prepare for lifechanging events! What you did with the RV doors is SO COOL. Great idea! And to think that my sticker will bring gratitude for your first hike? ….that’s humbling, Charlie! SO,…did you two stay around for another hike? Tee hee! Sending you prayers, high fives, and lots of great wishes as you adventure on, my new friends! I can’t wait to write soon after I get caught up here! My best to you both! Thank you for your kind words and YOUR inspiration! ❤️❤️☀️🏔️🙏

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  38. Blessings Karla. As my prayers reach out to the Lord, He shares a welcoming glimpse of your journey through this post. Just as autumn is a time of patient gratitude for the annual miracle of colors, God’s plan for you is unchanging. His faithfulness leads with autumn’s brilliant and bold scrapbook of colors.

    Thank you for sharing about the gift of piano music. Each of my three daughters is an accomplished pianist, and I can vividly see them practicing at home and later performing at recitals.

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    1. Richard, what a beautiful response. I can SEE your daughters playing now. What a beautiful sight and sounds to hear! How wonderful! It warms my soul to read about the glimpse you saw in this post. I feel it too, Richard. I just returned from a trip in AZ with my hiking “tribe”. I saw so much of God’s beautiful creation. The canyons, the GRAND one, the parks and monuments…there’s so much to love. I can’t imagine what heaven will be when I think that it’s even MORE beautiful than here! I pray you and your family continue being blessed. I appreciate you!

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  39. Hi, Please feel free to say, “no thank you, not right now” but I am ready to publish my giant tome of poems and I thank you in the forward for your support. I would love to send you a copy if you want one and will give me your mailing address. You can email me at janetawel@gmail.com if you think you would like one. And again, it’ll be on kindle if you don’t want a copy and no worries for saying no. I do thank you for support across the miles here on good ole WP. Have a great day! Jane (Praying for you!)

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  40. oh so tender hearted, Karla. I’ve been thinking of you a lot. I do love this and was a great picture shared. “Today I don’t need flannel, but I’m dressed in faith. ” ; Love this and love you ❤️❤️

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    1. Cindy, it’s so good to see you. I’ve thought of you often~how’s your precious family? I’ve missed reading your Fabulous lift-me-ups! Thank you for hanging in there with me. I love you. Merry Christmas to you and your entire family! 💚♥️💚🎄🙏🏻

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