A Moment in Time

Beech nuts crack releasing their brown jewels from the soft velvety casing that, until they break open underfoot, have been hidden by spiky armoured shells. As they are released an earthy nutty smell fills the air to compete with the heavy, waxy sweetly balsamic aroma of the Himalayan Balsam.

Autumn is here and the woods are putting on a show of splendour; a final celebration before winter comes. Fungus makes the most of the warm damp soil and shows off colourful fruits before it goes into hibernation during the cold months. The red and white spotted toadstools are almost magical, a reminder of childhood tales where they are a haven for fairies to rest on or hide under in the rain.

Squirrels leap acrobatically from tree to tree gathering for their winter stores. Staying statuesque on tree trunks, they watch intensely with bright beady eyes until danger has passed. Then drop gracefully to the floor and search with their deft, delicate paws through the leaves for treasure. Abruptly scampering swiftly back up the trunk to safety as soon as they hear a noise.

The wind breezes through the trees sending a shower of rainbow coloured leaves gracefully twirling, floating and fluttering to the floor. The red, orange and yellow splashes of colour carpet the floor waiting to be joyfully kicked around by welly booted children who shriek joyfully at being allowed to enjoy a moment in nature.

The woods in autumn are a place to cherish.