The Leaf-Peeping Saturday

Saturday. Early October. And in a lot of places, the leaves are hitting their stride — the maples going red, the birches going gold, the whole landscape putting on a show it’s been quietly rehearsing since June.

Here’s my Simple Mission for today: go look at some trees. On purpose. Not on the way somewhere — as the destination. Drive to the road with the good ones. Walk the park loop. Sit under the one in your own yard if it’s cooperating.

Maple — the dog, not the tree, though she’s aware of the connection and considers herself honorary spokesperson — believes fall walks are the best walks. More smells, cooler air, and the leaves make a satisfying sound underfoot. She’s right about all three.

The color is brief. Two weeks, maybe three, and then the trees are bare until April. That brevity is the entire point. Go see it while it’s here.

The color is brief. That brevity is the entire point. Go see it while it’s here.

Where’s the best fall color near you — and have you gone to see it yet this year?