The autumn season is a time when change and transformation fill the air, and the best season to find new perspectives. As we watch the leaves change colors, flutter to the ground, decay, and fertilize the soil that will feed new growth next year, we too can let go of our own burdens and begin again. Autumn reminds us that nature’s cycles, are mirrored in our own lives.

Accepting transitions and finding new inspiration require us to keep in the present moment. Try to find some time this week to allow yourself to be still in nature. Breathe in the crisp invigorating air and let it bring clarity to your thoughts. Slow down, look closely, and count every beautiful thing you can see. I would like to share some photos and reflections from a recent stroll along the Dungeness that made me slow down, appreciate the beauty of nature, and remember to embrace change. I hope you enjoy, and I hope you treat yourself to the same sometime soon.

In the spring, vanilla-leaf (Achlys triphylla) creates a continuous carpet along the forest floor in some spots. Fanning out its leaves horizontally to take advantage of any sunlight that breaks through the canopy. Its presence persists throughout fall and winter: After most of the leaf withers, the veins remain. Leaving behind a “skeleton” as delicate and beautiful as fairy wings.

Can you guess how pearly everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea) got its common name? The pearl-like flowers last until the first snows of winter.

Oregon-grape is one of own common “evergreen” understory plants but it’s hardly just green. New growth displays shades of crimson, mature leaves take on a bold green that sometimes blush burgundy come fall, providing a stunning array of color to the forest floor.

There is so much beauty in how the sunlight interacts with water droplets after a fall rain. Look closely inside each drop to see the forest from a new perspective.

And how the sunlight breaks through the canopy to make the forest glow…

Don’t forget to look up!

The moss looks extra green in autumn after being replenished by fall rains. Let this week’s fall rain replenish your soul and outlook moving forward 🙂

Fall is a great time to get to know some of your favorite wildflower species in a new form, observe their seeds and appreciate their cycle. (pyrola sp.)

Mushrooms are a fall beauty staple here in the pacific northwest! These honey mushrooms are hard at work as nature’s recyclers. Breaking down dead wood to send nutrients back into the soil for the next round of growth. The dense understory of the forest makes it so many of the leaves don’t reach the ground. The layering of leaves on ferns is like a fall forest fashion show! Who’s wearing who?? Each species looks more beautiful when contrasted next to another one.

Or how the maple leaves add the perfect pop of color to the gray the river rocks….