This has certainly been an uncharacteristically cold and rainy October! With the dingy weather, it can be easy to stay cooped up and forget about the beautiful changes of the season. But don’t starve your senses of the exquisite Illinois landscaping around you– the winter months are quickly approaching! Thriving this season, and painting the scene in shades of crimson are the Autumn Blaze Maple, and October Glory Red Maple. The Emerald Lustre Norway Maple splashes a bit of golden green across the countryside, flanked by the rich orange hues of the Majesty Sugar Maple, and deep greens of the Fall Fiesta Maple.
In addition to the elegant chromatic show unfolding all around, a closer look will reveal an intricate display of eye-pleasing decorations designed by Mother Nature herself. On a dry day collect the falling ornaments of these exquisite trees to create beautiful bouquets, wreathes, or garlands. Leaves can easily be preserved by breaking the stems and dipping them into a glycerin and water mixture. The open stem absorbs the solution, and when the leaves appear glossy they are ready to keep.
There are also fun ways for the kids to make creative use of the majestic Illinois landscaping. By carefully laying a piece of paper over their favorite collected leaves, kids can use a crayon to lightly rub over it revealing the its veins and intricacies. This is a great way to learn, while marveling at the complexity of nature.
As the weather continues to get cold more and more of these colorful days are slipping away. Make the effort to get out and take it all in. Whether its a walk in the park, or a day of preserving this fleeting beauty, take this opportunity to be humbled in the presence of abounding natural beauty. It lies everywhere your trekking toes may take you in this beautiful state.
