Each year at this time, I see these clumps of wild clematis alongside one short section of my walking path. Even though they’re considered a noxious invasive species, they always shimmer so beautifully in the light of the morning sun. I’m reminded that sometimes even bad things in life can have a bit of a good side.

It’s another sure sign of Autumn when these plants begin to show their wispy beards. I guess summer is ending whether I want it to or not, and even though I love the summer heat with the masses of green all around me, I do prefer the cooler morning temps of Autumn for power walking. (Another good thing in a not-so-good thing)

“When summer opens, I see how fast it matures, and fear it will be short; but after the heats of July and August, I am reconciled, like one who has had his swing, to the cool of autumn.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson