This time of year...

There is no question that autumn is the best time of year to be in Ohio, and Fall 2007 has done nothing but reinforce this belief in me. Last year, autumn was literally three weeks of rain. It was downright nappy. I sought comfort by pretending that I lived somewhere where the rain made it romantic, like Ireland or something. There is no need for that this year, as it has been nothing short of glorious: cool, crisp, and colorful.
I've always enjoyed defending Ohio, so when I lived in Colorado I used to say, "Ohio is just as beautiful, just not as spectacular." Yes, it's hard to beat the azure skies, golden leaves, and snowcapped peaks of the Rockies. But Ohio's pastoral, complex beauty sure gives it a run for its money. Check it out:




The first frost of the year in the foreground, the morning sun has already begun burning it off the slopes of Alpine.

Until I one day reside again in the mountains, this'll do just fine.

Happy Halloween, everybody. Stay warm, and of course, pray for snow!