Life is like a Ferris wheel.

Sometimes you’re up, sometimes you’re down. The most important thing, is to enjoy the ride. That’s exactly what I’ve been doing over the past few months. Disconnecting from social media and reconnecting with family and friends. Over the summer and into the fall we were blessed to witness four weddings and a funeral, attend several reunions and welcome new babies into our extended family. Celebrating milestones such as these, really makes you appreciate every stop along the ride of life.

As a child, I preferred the thrill of a roller coaster; the twists and turns, the faster the better. I couldn’t wait for the next phase of life; college, a career, marriage and motherhood. Then, in a blink of an eye, I found myself an empty nester, looking to get off the roller coaster and exchange my ticket for a ride on the Ferris wheel.

There’s something romantic and nostalgic about the Ferris wheel, which is another reason why I love the ride! It gives you time to pause, look around and reminisce about anything and everything. Memories from childhood to adulthood include a rainbow of colors from the wheel, which becomes almost magical, when lit up at night.

Our family tradition of attending the Minnesota State Fair is always a highlight of my summer. This year, I was thrilled to have all three of my kids join me for a day at the fair. We had a perfectly lazy summer day filled with fun and games, favorite fair foods and of course a ride on the BIG wheel! As we were all perched high above the fairgrounds, the ride stopped and time stood still, at least in my mind. What a glorious feeling, for that moment.

A brisk wind swirling golden leaves around me today is a reminder of how quickly seasons change. Although I traded my roller coaster ticket in for a ride on the Ferris wheel, it hasn’t really slowed things down. Only I can do that, by taking time to stop, look around, hold on tight to those I love dearly and enjoy the ride.

Dig Deeper & Journal It

• What does a Ferris wheel mean to you?

• Which carnival ride best represents your outlook on life?

• What steps can you take to ensure you enjoy the ride?