I look around and see so much joy. I'm currently sitting at a coffee shop and I'm trying to think of something to write about. I've been kind of behind on my blogs, but I've felt more alive than ever recently. I've been living life to the fullest and experiencing things I've been too timid to dip my toes in. Let me tell you what joy and life I see right here.

In front of me there's a smiling mother holding her new baby and sipping a cup of coffee while she watches her toddler trying to eat a particularly messy egg sandwich. I look out the window and see the most vibrant leaves taking flight and skidding across the streets of downtown Pennsylvania. They catch the air and sweep under the cars speeding by. They come out from under the car and complete a few flips before landing at the shuffling feet on the sidewalk nearby. Couples are walking by, bundled in sweaters and jackets and scarves. They smile up at each other and laugh at the way their hair is blowing in their faces. The buildings are tall and each one is unique with rustic colors and hidden stories.

Sitting at the table next to me, there is a woman who has ordered herself three cups of coffee and her fingers are hitting the keys on the laptop faster than a hummingbird can flap its wings. Her short hair is messy and her purple sweater is something I'm secretly loathing, considering it looks as though it's probably the softest thing in the room. You can hear chatter above the soft music playing of the little shop's speakers. The sound and scent of the coffee beans being ground seems to only encourage her fingers to pick up the speed. She looks as though she has lots of work, but there's something about the way she reads each email that makes me believe she kinda likes her job.

On the other side of me there is a man who keeps looking up from his iced coffee as though he is waiting for someone to enter. Not surprisingly, he is dressed like the typical hipster. His face is scruffy but defined. His eyes look tired but determined. Handsome and hopeful, waiting ever so patiently.

There are life-long friends stuffing their faces in conversation, never losing a bit of eye contact. There are business owners and mothers and artists and baristas and hopeful humans waiting on their significant other to join them for a soothing meal along with a word or two to keep each other updated on their lives.

I love the fall and the winter. People seem to get closer as they run away from the cold and try to find warmth with one another. Fluffy fleece blankets. Lights. Hot Chocolate. Soft sweaters. Cozy Cuddles. Warm fires. Family. Friends. And a little bit of extra hope in the hearts of those around you.