Subtle signs of fall surrounded us on our hike today. Leaves beginning to change color, dropping from trees. While still warm and humid, fall is right around the corner here in north-central Wisconsin.
But we didn't let that get us down. It was a beautiful, slow and deliberate hike today. We didn't rush through the trail to get to the river. We walked with purpose, looking all around, taking time to sniff the scents along the trail and listen to the forest sounds.
There was severe weather forecast for later in the afternoon, so we arrived at the trail head just after noon to have time to enjoy the calm before the storm. I love being in the woods at this time when the atmosphere is churning and changing. There's a charge, an electricity in the air. It's so invigorating.
VIDEO 1 - PLAYING IN THE WATER:
VIDEO 2 - PLAYING IN THE WATER
The strong breeze would alternate with eerie calm. Light was muted and dim. Everything glowed green around us. In the brief openings of sky in the canopy above, clouds swirled and danced.
We spent a good deal of time along the riverbank, the dogs looking for sticks to chew while I absorbed the sound of the water trickling over rocks and through mossy islands. It was divine.
Instead of being sad about the changing seasons, I'm actually excited for fall. There is still so much exploring to do before the snow arrives and I can't wait to get out as much as possible!
