I was fortunate to move into a place that has a row of tall trees and a little creek running behind it.

When I feel overwhelmed or contemplative, I need only sit outside on my balcony.

In these moments, I feel welcomed by the little leaves waving a greeting with the slight breeze and understood by the soft trickling of water reminding me to breathe.

And I can't help but smile as the black squirrel runs down the tree to grab the small apple I threw out there, before the deer can get it.