Were it not for the fact that we have our hearts set on southern tropical climes, we would move 18 miles north of KC to Smithville Lake. Every season changes the picturesque frame around the sparkling man-made reservoir. Today, a warm breeze fluttered the leaves of amber, ochre and burnt red, a sure sign that summer is over. The breeze only occasionally betrayed a cool nip of the fall’s promise, the sun not yet committing her strength to the southern hemisphere. We took the road less traveled by foot than by bike, a preferred route because it’s much closer to nature and the lake’s shore. Chirping birds, flitting blue-hued dragon flies, and the occasional sunning garter snake were our only companions.

When we finally make our move to the endless summer of  lush greens and liquid blues, I will miss the fall days of gold and garnet.