Fall Into Winter

Changing leaves embellish mountain ranges, cooler air dances across my skin. Both alert me autumn is approaching, prior to being mentally prepared. I cherish final seasonal rows as leaves surf puddles created by my oars. Feelings emerge as if the trees and I mutually mourn summers finality. Canadian goslings have grown and explore more independently, while fewer turtles sun themselves on the usual log. Fall is special here. I live in an area that attracts tourists known as “leaf peepers.” A mountain range of shimmering leaves in early evening sun, can seem as magical as Christmas morning as a kid. Fallen leaves create natures colorful blanket resting on the ground, rustling underfoot. Pumpkin spice coffee, Macintosh scented candles and ski sales fill my senses and calendar. Snow tires get dusted off as the dreaded seasonal closet dive occurs. I hold winter gear in hand, visualizing and feeling winters excitement grow. The first day cool air tingles my nose reminds me winters wrath and beauty is just around the bend.

Each beautiful season brings its own energy, peace and hope.

Winter creates magical moments on skis, après belly laughs reliving the days blunders, as fireplaces crackle and cocoa warms hands. Sledding and skating often result in tail bone injuries, followed by chili dinners and movie nights. Snow falls in numerous densities. Sparkly snow enhances evening night walks, catching their flakes rejuvenate my soul.

Spring is also known as mud season. Weeks pass until you can legibly read vehicle models beneath layers of dirt. Motorist attempt to keep their ride in tact through pot holes. Only city trips remind me of car washes and shiny lights. Sap lines connect Maple trees, like a vein delivering liquid gold. Logs keep flames ignited as golden syrup boils in sugar houses. Baby buds on plants say hi, reminding you life blossoms, following the dark.

Summer is filled to the brim of treasured daylight hours, sandy swim suits, sunscreen, and hikes awarding picturesque views. Spring peeper melodies parade into earlobes, as lightning bugs alternate a visual morse code.

All of these treasures remind me of natures uniqueness. I am lucky I can breathe, touch and experience what all four seasons have to offer. I hope with enough knowledge, my footprint on nature is only as big as a size 7.