While out for a ramble I heard a very distinctive sound: that unmistakable rattle of dry leaves in a gust of wind; there they were, swirling on the ground in a sure demonstration of the unstoppable arrival of autumn.

We’re still very green, but even those leaves seem to make that particular rattling sound once September arrives. It’s understandable. By turns it has been hot, dry, smoky, and windy. They’re tired.

But among all that greenery the autumnal colours are slowly creeping in. Everything in life starts small.

Although autumnal yellows are often the first colours to show, I’ve already noticed some reds, too.

The Oregon grape is changing its dress …

… while the matador roses that bloom so beautifully and unceasingly from June through August, are beginning to slump.

Summer officially ends in less than two weeks and while it’s a bit sad to see it go, autumn is a wonderful season with its graceful and stunningly beautiful characteristics. I’m looking forward to it.

Happy Wednesday.