Look up, look down, look all around in Autumn!

 

Today, we went for a walk on Hix Small Cemetery Rd. As we crossed the West Cathance Stream, we spotted a gorgeous red maple ablaze in all its autumn glory. The cloud studded sky added to the dramatic coloring of the scene.

We crossed over a log, took a right, and went uphill on a trail through Sylvan Woods. As I approached the top of the hill, I looked to my left and saw a colorful log on the ground surrounded by an assortment of fallen leaves, needles, and mosses. If you don't stop to explore something in nature like this more closely, you miss the true beauty of it.

Upon closer examination, I saw a variety of lichens, mosses, and fungi festooning the log, making it look like a Christmas tree! The brilliant red of nearby fallen maple leaves and the glossy, rich brown coloration of the beech leaves added to this colorful feast for my eyes. There is so much to see here. Do you notice that the moss on the ground is different from the moss on the tree?

Finally, I took the time to get as close a look as i could. There are so many fabulous textures and colors on just a small section of this log. It really pays to take the time to observe those parts of nature that intrigue you.