Stormy Night and Bare Trees

orange, red and gold chestnut and maples.

Yesterday, trees were brilliant with color. The day was overcast, with diffused light. The naturally soft light made the colors pop all the more.

a golden maple

an Oak leaf

But, last night we had wind and rain that blew the leaves from the trees and shrubs. The brilliant colors from yesterday are almost gone. Philadelphia receives the majority of our rain in spring and fall.  This makes it a good time to plant trees and shrubs.  

oak tree with falling leaves

The habitat restoration group I volunteer with, plants native trees and shrubs at this time of year. The volunteers spent the summer pulling up invasive alien plants. When the plants are in leaf it is easy identify and pull the invaders out.

bare trunks and branches

I didn't notice the twisted shapes of these trees in summer. The leaves hid the bowed trunks. It reminds me of humans who wear plants to hide bowed legs.

hydrangea blossoms

These blossoms are naturally dried flowers. I like the papery, translucent  leaves. The veins make patterns and interlocking lines, that are backlit by the late afternoon sun. 

Autumn is truly beautiful. The world is truly beautiful.