Serene Fall Decor & September Tranquility will hopefully bring soothing calm. It is what I need right now. I am not ready to share what is happening personally, but you can likely imagine if you have read recent posts.
We are living a nightmare, and our home has become a house of suffering. Our courtyard garden has become Gethsemane, and we are trying to survive. I’ll tell you more later, and please keep praying. My heart has no fear, yet I’m struggling with uncertainty just the same. Since I can hardly keep my eyes open, these calming reflections from last year will have to do.
Serene Fall Decor & Whispers of Timeless Tranquility
***Although this post is from last year, the timeless reflections continue to resonate…maybe they will resonate for you also.
No mind blowing blog-worthy designs from me; just an accidental 5-minute photo shoot during a peaceful breakfast last fall.
Reflections from Last October
After I unplugged from media and moved through the day at a luxuriously slow, elegant pace, I was rewarded with simple pleasures. A flickering dance of flames upon European pink Cinderella pumpkin flesh.
Time to savor the beauty of vintage china. Quiet communing with lovely images in a new design book.
Blogging demands more work than you might imagine (thank you for your tolerance of the deluge of ads which make this free content possible), and I treasure unplugged time more than ever.
I’m a little under the weather as a result of a flu shot + tetanus shot on same day, but grateful that symptoms of my GI illness have eased.
Life Has Been Less Than Calm
Since my system is not able to effectively digest fats and certain proteins, I have been treated for pancreatic insufficiency.
Because I can tolerate just small amounts of yummy fats, the goal is always to choose good fats, and I must also limit portions of everything.
Whenever I can actually ABSORB nutrients, it’s a huge blessing.
Every over-40 woman I know struggles to maintain a healthy weight, and when I’m in remission for gastrointestinal disease, I understand the challenge too.
I am grateful to have survived another nightmarish chapter and looking forward to the opportunity to hopefully regain weight. 🙂 While my remission may not stretch too many months, oh the joy to enjoy comfort food while it does!
Calm Autumn Color is My Happy Place
The quiet fall color you see here feels like home even though I adore visiting color away from these walls.
I scored the pale European pink pumpkins at the grocery store only to discover they closely match my pointe shoe collection.
For a few minutes before I snapped any photos, I watched the winds stir the trees in our backyard. Then I checked out the front:
After pulling on my boots and heading out to collect a few leaves from the ground, raindrops began to baptize me as I knelt in pajamas and wellies.
The sudden rain shower was so consistent with the experience of living here in Northern Illinois with fall weather as moody as me.
Fall Weather & Life Are Always in Flux
Folks who live here are crazy about autumn, but the truth is, it breezes by in a flash, morphing into frigid wintry grey days quicker than grass through a goose.
So if we don’t get out in it or slow down enough to savor walnut and oak leaves letting go, hot apple cider sipping, and little pumpkin altars in the world, it’s bound to breeze on by. (Do I sound strangely reminiscent of another Chicagoan in a high school movie whose name rhymes with Paris Jeweler?)
I’m so thankful for what I’ve got, friends.
To be this rich in love, wonder, and imagination is to be bathed in the gentle, candle-lit colors you see here.
For me, these hues are never dull or uninteresting. I mean it is all about the light.
While the palette is lightweight and ethereal, I find faded chalky hues as comforting as smooth silk, nubby linen, or sumptuous velvet.
Pale Pink Glass Prayer Beads
Did you notice my pale pink prayer beads in the mix?
For a season, I created these necklaces with tumbled glass beads from Africa and collected vintage religious amulets.
If such textural beads encourage and remind us to pray…well then, what could be more lovely than that?
Just a small word about prayer since it often takes a beating in social media spheres (when folks too quickly equate prayer as the opposite of action).
Autumn’s Reminders to Let Go
Prayer is not passivity for me.
It is indeed energetic, powerful, mysterious, and rhythmic in my daily life. While many may pray when they reach the end of their resources and require help, it is possible (though perhaps challenging) to live in prayer as Jesus and saints before us did.
Paul talks about it in Philippians as an emptying, which makes so much sense to me. As I grow older and wiser, I find that emptying myself (in meditation for example or prayer) is a powerful surrender.
Oh these humble little leaves drifting from noble oaks have much to teach.
And even if you live in a land absent of seasons, surely nature is leading you by the hand to deeper truth too.
Learning to Recognize the Sacred
Because in my experience (as Paula D’Arcy has wisely said), God comes disguised as your own life.
And not simply the shiny happy parts. All of it. The messy, complex, heartbreaking, painful bits too.
What do we do with God as He comes?
I don’t want to run away. And I find I must consistently get out of my own way to allow reality to be reality.
Secrets from a Seeker of Timeless Tranquility
Can I tell you a secret about an extraordinary moment experienced two months ago after a not-so-good doctor appointment when at 80-something pounds, I couldn’t see an end to the intense irritability from malnutrition?
On my long drive home alone from the appointment, my heart filled with warmth and light, in a fresh way I had never known.
What angel souls were praying? I tried to reconcile what was happening. Why was I so calm and devoid of fear?
It only took a minute to recognize it.
JOY. Pure and tender effervescent joy without hoopla, without balloons, without an explanation.
Not sure this makes any sense to you.
But gentle peace bubbled up into consciousness as the most lovely, consoling, delicious champagne for the soul.
Sometimes When You Lose, You Win
If my health improves…yay!
And if my health continues to decline…I’ll welcome it too.
I’m no masochist; but I have learned to let go of the old to make space for the new. I have already grown old with the wonderful man who loves me; with children who have become best friends.
There was this brilliant, glowing, knowing that I COULD NOT LOSE. Have you experienced such a flame?
Its intensity simply could not be denied by rational resistance.
I phoned two of my people to celebrate the bubbles.
(By now I know that if I don’t claim or rehearse these moments, the supernatural consolations fade quickly from memory. And I also know that mystics more spiritually-evolved might tell me to zip it and to ignore consolations which may be created by my very own ego.)
I don’t know much of anything at all, but I wonder if this knowing is the gift of holy indifference. Because…oh my, the freedom it bestows!
All is Calm
I am going to be just fine, whether healing stays or healing goes; come what may, cure or no cure.
Because Grace has taught my heart to sing. And Love is alive and moving through me like an invisible eternal current.
So let the strong winds blow. Let them carry me, a holy fool and architect of Cinderella pumpkin breakfast altars. Carry this seeker of the timeless and the tranquil over this present valley. Let me, a trusting little oak leaf, pirouette imperfectly through autumn air.
p.s. If you have a moment, I wrote an update on my health/spiritual journey HERE, and you can enjoy a bit more inspiring serene calm fall color in this story spotlighting talented stylists and bloggers.
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Votive Holder 
Pumpino Wreath 
Faux Bois Candleholders 
Pumpklin Clove Candle 
Grainstripe Pillow 
Birch Wreath 
Doormat 
Wheat Wreath 
Ilse Jacobsen Boots 
Sweater weave basket 
Faux Tree 
Ochre Pillow 
Hydrangea Wreath 
Corn Husk Wreath 
Hosley Pillar Candleholder 
Turkish Blanket 
Farmers Market Herb Wreath 
French Farmhouse Stool
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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Beautiful, Michele. Just beautiful.
Author
Peace to you right where you are, Kathy.
Thank you so much for pouring out your soul so beautifully!! Sweet Jesus is alive and well in your words written to us. I so needed to read this today. May God bless you and HEAL you. In the strong and mighty name of JESUS I pray this for you.
Author
Thank you for the blessing of your words and His mighty name. What a name! What a gorgeous sweet name – this Jesus who showed us what sacred wounds look like and dignified them for even me. xox
You say – “I’m inclined to think divine help and healing are near”.
I say – “I’m inclined to think divine help and healing are already there “.
Share your revelations of pure peaceful Joy – we overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony!
What beautiful images .
Author
Thanks for taking the time to respond and add beauty, Marilyn. xox
As always a most lovely post! 🙂 The softer side of Autumn speaks to me too.
And about prayer and that unexplainable sense of joy….Well, I do know what you’re talking about because my own health issues were many many many years of struggling, praying, trying both traditional and non-traditional medical options. But like you, one day I realized it was all going to be OK….. A sense of peace was just there…….
I usually never make New Year’s resolutions but during the midst of some of my worst parts of health, I did decide one year to resolve this: “I choose to be happy, I choose to be healthy”. That didn’t mean every day was seen through rose-colored glasses but that there was Light at the end of the tunnel….and yes, that Light is God, His son Jesus and the Holy Spirit…..
…..and then one day, as one of my health care providers sort of “predicted” my health issues got SO much better! I still have to mind my P’s & Q’s with what I eat, drink and manage stress levels, but there was so much healing to be thankful for! And dare I say one of the best things for me was avoiding toxic people in my life. There are so many friends that help me, why would I stay around those who cause “issues”, right? 😉
People can scoff if they want to, but I truly believe it was a healing that was all in God’s most perfect plan.
I pray the same for you too Michele………..
Author
Luxuriating in your words and all the love that fuels them. Thank you for adding to the beauty, Connie…your journey is inspiring. xox
Loved your wonderful testimony and will pray for your continued healing. You are such an example of “turning it over to the Lord”.
Author
Thank you, Sandra. It is just never a one and done thing, is it? The surrender has to keep happening daily for me to have any chance at transformation and change. There are days I’m a mess and cling like a freak. But the struggles keep coming too so there are all these opportunities and reminders to keep letting go. Peace to you.
What a simply beautiful way to start my morning, Michele. Thank you for bringing a bit of peace, tranquility, beauty and inspiration to my day. Your words are so inspirational and the lovely way you express yourself is unequaled. How wonderful to hear that you are on the mend.
Author
I’m so humbled, Celia – thank you for your encouragement. It can be awkward sharing these types of intimate details so I am grateful when I feel such loving support. Yes, I’m feeling sooooo much better, friend. (I consumed three kinds of cheese yesterday!!! woohoo!)
Thanks again for your always lovely words. As one who struggles with two forms of arthritis and an autoimmune disorder I “ get it”. Your thoughts words and prayers inspire, and also there is consolation knowing we’re all in this thing we call life together.
So glad for your improved health news🙏
Author
Thank you kindly, Mary. We are in it together, and I join you as we muddle through. Peace to you.
I. Love. This. Post! Beautiful! A brave and open accounting of your wonderful joy! These things are so often hard to put into words 💕
I’m so glad you’re feeling better!
Thank you!!!
Author
Thank you so much for reading and lifting me up, Beth!
Michele, I am happy to read that you gaining weight, although I am distressed to see that you are under the weather. Slow down my dear girl, revel in the beauty of the season, just as you did for this shoot. Your health is the most important thing in the world. I have always been drawn to your blog and your spirality and honesty are two of the reasons, the pretty photos and other stuff is icing on the cake. I am praying for you my friend.
Author
Thank you, kind friend. I feel as though I have slowed down so much, but perhaps there is more slowing before I’ll be glowing. 🙂 Thank you for reading and especially for your prayers – what a rare blessing is mine.
Michele,
You are such a sweet lady and I am glad that you are feeling better and gained your weight back. That is awesome. I hope you continue to feel good. Enjoy the fall while it lasts. I believe that God is always with us even in the difficult times. He certainly is holding you.
Hugs,
Bev
Author
Thank you so much, Bev. I am having more good days and am amazed that the weight came back quickly. Thank God He is so good. Peace to you. xox
Such a moving post, Michele. You have a true gift of communicating in such a beautiful way such lovely truth. It is a gift to us to read and be encouraged in all that you are learning and to say “AMEN” in agreement with you! You are a true testament of James 1:2-4 “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing…” as well as Phil. 4:11-13 “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am… I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Thanks for all the wisdom, inspiration, & joy you share every time I read your open, honest, & uplifting words.
Author
What a gift to have this sort of encouragement from you, Amy. Thank you. So so much. For daring to venture into thin space (can there be thin space in cyber space? i hope so.) and territory that feels holy. I know it is unusual to combine faithful stream of consciousness on an inspiration blog, and I appreciate your kindness in bringing me the Word. Endurance. Yes. I love those words in James which suggest I am moving toward wholeness…a longing that never strays far. And the Phillipians verses sing of that holy indifference. I receive all this goodness with a grateful, open heart and hope it multiplies and overflows into the world, reaching you. xox
Thank you for sharing at #ThursdayFavoriteThings. Pinned and shared. Have a lovely week. I hope to see you at next week’s party too!
Author
I love that gathering and always come away with new discoveries – see you at TFT tomorrow. xox
Wonderful home, and great ideas, Michele! Saw your feature over at TFT! We’ve missed seeing you at Tuesday Turn About! Hope to see your there again! 😉
Author
Thanks, Julie. I am having trouble keeping up but sure do appreciate the reminder to join you. 🙂
Beautiful post Michele and I’m excited to share it this week on Tuesday Turn About. I think we all need reminders and inspiration to enjoy life simply.
Author
Thanks so much, Michelle. I’m so grateful and look forward to joining you at tomorrow’s Turn About. 🙂
I stumbled here by accident or maybe divine appointment. What a beautiful post! I love joy. My Mother, was very wise, said you must choose it everyday. So I strive to rest in the joy of my sweet Saviour always.
Author
So happy you landed here and shared your joy – you and your mom are both wise. Peace to you.
Such a gorgeous post😱
Author
Thanks so much for reading, Ann. 🙂
So good to hear you feel better. …and next time better again and again…..it will take time but you will recover.
I believe you can only heal by faith, humility, love and hope . Autumn might be a triste period of the year but
also the time where we can taking the inward turn. Enjoy the falling leaves, the silent rain which brings a new
beauty into the nature. Best wishes from Spain
Author
YES. Yes – healing by those things is real and so good. I’m having a day where I feel half human, and oh what a blessing! Who can stop me now!?! Let the leaves fall, and let me fall upon holy ground where dormancy will lead to new life and new energies. xox
I’m so, so sorry you are going through these incredibly difficult times. I knew something was wrong when your posts were all repeats. My thoughts are with you and I pray for better days to come.
A big virtual hug from moi,
~Joanna
Author
Thank you, Joanna. Yes – recycling all these posts as healing continues in our house. Hoping your summer has been much better than ours and thank you for the prayers – I’m blessed. xox
Lovely as always, Michele. I’ll be featuring this tomorrow at TFT. 😊
Author
Thank you, Pam. So happy to report I’m feeling a little better today and our son is too. See you at the shindig. xox
Praying, Michele❤️
Author
Thank you. Feeling some relief today and so thankful for all good days. xox
Michelle,
I love the serene look you provide for fall. It is probably because you supply such lovely thoughts and such a heartfelt prospective. Congratulations, you are being featured at Thursday Favorite Things. I hope you stop by.
Take care my friend.
Hugs,
Bev
Author
Thank you kindly, Bev. I will join you tomorrow and appreciate your support. Hope you are safe and sound. xox
Continued prayers, Michele. So glad Bev featured you today, as I would have missed this. So glad to hear things are a bit better.
Author
I appreciate it, Julie. Each day seems to be its own thing, and the constant is that I am trusting. Peace to you.