I woke early this morning to the light rumble of distant thunder and the tap of raindrops on the window sill. As I ate my oatmeal, the rain softened and the woods beckoned. Few moments are as peaceful as a walk among the trees after a rain. There is a serenity that begs me to walk slowly, to tread softly and to notice.
From the leaves on the ground to the goldenrod in the neighboring fields, all was soaked and steeping. The smell was rich and sweet, like the earth was brewing tea.
The beech leaves, thin and papery, were gradually fading to brown.
The light was magical from below.
Some leaves were dusted with droplets…
While others collected private pools.
And still others were brilliantly overwhelmed.
American Sycamore.
The rain enhanced the color of more than leaves.
Some leaves, like those of this holly tree, will remain evergreen.
And it never hurts to have a gentle friend like Sam along for a walk,
especially if he’s a spoon dog.
David Fisher, Carving Explorations 
We’ve gotten our first little rains of the season here as well, and the smell of the trees and the earth inhaling that first gift of moisture is one of my favorites. It’s part of why I love this season so much.
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Nice to know I’m in good company, Kalia. Thanks.
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Beautiful pictures!
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Thank you.
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You’re welcome 🙂
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Great post! Love the pic, comments & Sam!
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Thank you.
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Beautiful. I especially love the picture of the leaves under rippling water. Thank you for sharing your walk.
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Thanks, Nancy. The beauty of running water, especially small overlooked streams, always grabs me.
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Wow, what a special dog Sam is…and trained to find crooks perfect for spoons or bowls!! Nice pics and words, Dave.
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Thanks, Kevin. Sam and I have been walking together for ten years now. He’s the best.
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Great pictures, I’m very fortunate to live across the street for a state park so at every opportunity I try to get out for a walk. Even though I have walked these trails many times each walk and each season brings new discovery. Unfortunately my walking companion lost his sight this summer so he’s no longer able to explore the woods with me.
Came across this a few years ago on a plaque while hiking at the Mohonk Preserve in NY. It’s so fitting for anyone that enjoys the woods and exploring them.
It’s not how you reach your destination,
But what you discover along the way,
Treasure the journey.
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Thanks for sharing your experience and the inscription, Tom. Inspiring words.
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You have beautifully describe through word and photo my favorite time of year. And having a great trusty companion like Sam doesn’t hurt either. If I may I’d say your’re a blessed man. A great woods to enjoy and a dog to point out a future project. Enjoy the times.
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Thanks, Scott. I enjoy exploring little patches of woods that are often overlooked. This walk was in a woodlot between an auto parts store and railroad tracks. Beauty everywhere. I certainly should count my blessings.
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Beautiful…the words and the images. Thank you.
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