The time of year when Nana reminds us to share what she’s given us over the summer.

Nana’s seasons wash in with a rhythmic beat that is the pulse of our planet.

Several autumns ago I was out wandering the aspen groves of western Colorado – just camping out, photographing the changing colors and soaking in the last bits of the season.

One of those evenings I was standing in the midst of a golden grove taking photos of the sun setting behind the mountains.

All was silent – not even a breeze… when I noticed a slight rustle in the dry grasses at my feet.

It was a field mouse gathering up seeds (and crumbs from my supper sandwich).

Although we had very different paths ahead in the coming winter – his in hunkering down under the snow and ice, and mine hunkered in an office cubicle – at that moment I felt a deep kinship with this small being.

We were both taking advantage of the moment we were offered, and collecting our small treasures to enjoy in the coming dark of winter.

Just a reminder to use these days as an opportunity to gather up what you need to keep warm, cozy and creative this winter.