My header picture

I've received more comments on the above picture, I believe, than any header picture I've ever used.  
The amazing thing about it is that when it was taken, a couple of weeks ago, hardly any leaves had changed in Missouri.  
As we came out of our tent at Lake of the Ozarks State Park that morning, we noticed the reflections on the water and walked down to the lake to take pictures.  If you think the picture is lovely, you should have seen it in person; it was almost breathtaking.
We have noticed that the leaves seem to be prettiest on riverbanks or near lakes.  
Early in the month, I read predictions that mid-October would be the best time for leaf color in Missouri, and that it was to be an outstanding year for pretty autumn foliage.  From what we've seen, the peak color arrived a week later than predicted, and it doesn't seem to be such a great year for pretty foliage.  I think part of the problem is that we had some high winds that stripped some trees before the color could change.   

Autumn is showing off her colors

Once Cliff has had his breakfast and his share of coffee, we're out there enjoying whichever season it is, taking our half-hour walk in the pasture. We walk for our health, but I suppose I'd do it just for the pure pleasure of it anyhow.

Or I'd do it for Sadie, who, once she sees us putting on our shoes, circles and whines until we're out the door.

Cliff's getting ready to toss that stick down the hill to his right.


We like to throw sticks down this steep hill, thinking we'll wear her out, making her come up such an incline.

Fat chance.


Look at those leaves with the morning sun shining through!

I love autumn. I'm so thankful I can walk!