I needed a break. She needed a break.

First pumpkin spice latte of the season was almost a spiritual experience, though I’m embarrassed to admit it meant that much to me.

Homework sits, undone, on the kitchen table while she plays in the rain for HOURS.

I’m thankful for the rain, for the clouds, for the stream overflowing behind our house, for the little neighbors so happily playing together, for the hummingbird moths fascinating my daughter, for pumpkin spice lattes, for friends that call and text, for a husband who sent me to Starbucks even though we’re trying to save money, for a clean countertop, and last-but-not-least chocolate chip cookie dough.

I have not forgotten the date—no, I woke up with it on my mind. 9/11. Somehow it seems fitting that it’s a rainy day.