The geese have flown over..‪.‬ The Debra Kouda Podcast

Fall holds a special place in my heart, even though I enjoy both of the transition seasons we experience here in the Northwest. About 2 weeks ago, the first flock of Canadian geese flew over - signaling the changing of the tide from summer to fall.
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At least this sign does for me - as I’m writing this, I realize many people have never seen geese migrate from the north to the south. It is quite a sight to behold, especially when you see flocks of over 100 birds all “v’d” up to make the long journey. And they do not go quietly, they certainly are a loud bunch when they fly over rooftops - I often wonder what all of that chatter is about. I’m sure some Canadian geese researchers could tell me more about it.
It has been a busy time since the last newsletter came out…
The annual fair took place less than a block away from where we live. So there were 11 days of concerts, rodeos, and the demolition derby. And much more traffic on our somewhat already busy street.
Aden and Ben set up and ran their second annual lemonade stand, taking advantage of the masses of people going to and from the fair. They even concocted a new product this year, which was called the “Purple Shake” - and was a take-off of “the Grimace” shake that McDonald’s had for about a month last June. It was a success and a delicious combination of vanilla ice cream, milk, raspberries, and blueberries that hit the spot on the hot August days. I honestly wasn’t sure how this idea was going to pan out, but we figured out a system, and on the first day they sold more shakes than I thought they could have! Just goes to show that as adults we do not always know the outcomes of what we may think are crazy ideas.
After the fair was over I had about a week left before the fall semester started for my doctorate program. Hard to believe, but I will be defending my dissertation proposal this November and starting up research in the spring. This is somewhat of a daunting task for me as I almost completely changed my dissertation topic last June. Am I worried? Nah. After talking with a couple of my professors this past week, I have realized this is just part of the doctoral process. I have learned and grown so much during these last two years. It is incredible when I look back at what I thought I wanted to do during my first semester and where I am now. Fantastic really if I allow myself time for reflection.
Then the boys and I took a road trip down to Oregon to visit some college friends that I hadn’t seen in years. It was a great drive, and I always enjoy visiting the state where I spent four years after high school. We stayed in my friend’s tiny house that they have in their backyard and it was a truly wonderful experience. I have always been intrigued by the tiny living spaces and this did not disappoint! We visited a carousel museum, ate some delicious cupcakes, and even saw a production of Pinocchio. Plus there was plenty of time to play and just catch up with old friends. On the way home, we drove up the Oregon coast and put our feet in the Pacific, which was freezing!
Oh, and how could I forget? My parents celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary! They have reached the golden years :)
These seasonal transitions also trigger something in me to re-organize and move around furniture. This year was no exception and the boys worked tirelessly with me as we made some major furniture changes. Does anyone else go through this? I’m sure that it can’t just be me!
I am looking forward to enjoying the rest of the fall and all that it has to offer, including some apple picking 🍎!
And for all of you, I hope that you enjoy “fall” wherever you may be.
Stay well and smile often…
Debra
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