Precariously balancing between summer and autumn

Each day in autumn presents the gifts of shifting colours, distinct sounds, and aromas. It's challenging to accomplish anything because I simply want to be outside, not missing a falling leaf or the chance to hear the echoes of rutting deer.

I felt like I was walking a line precariously balanced between summer and autumn, with the beautifully warm sunshine where butterflies danced in the glades and russet leaves floated to the mast-laden forest floor, which was being hoovered by the pannage pigs as they squealed, grunted, and greedily crunched on the autumn bounty.

Autumn in the New Forest is all about nature putting on a show with playful pigs, scratching ponies, spectacular caterpillars, wonderful fungi, and rutting deer with crowns of bracken.

Every step was mindful and magical today in the lowering sun, and every deep breath filled my lungs with the unique and comforting smells you can only experience in an autumnal woodland.

I embrace the transitions and variations in light and temperature among nature's treasures as she gracefully lets go to allow space for stillness and growth.